Mel Borja is a 27-year-old law student, second-generation Latina, and lifelong Virginian.

The eldest daughter of an immigrant family, she grew up in a household with hidden financial issues and money anxiety. Like many young adults, after she graduated from college she discovered that she had never learned how to properly manage her finances.

This discovery led Mel down a path of extensive self-education on personal finance, money, and financial wellness. As part of this journey, she’s paid off over $16,500 in student loan debt, nearly doubled her income, and grown her net worth by over $110,000 — all in 5 years!

Mel started the personal finance Instagram page @MoneyByMel as part of this journey and that platform has since grown into a 1:1 money coaching practice! To date, she has coached over 60 individuals and couples just like you to build wealth regardless of their income.

She primarily focuses on issues facing recent grads, young professionals, graduate students, and couples ages 20-35. Her practice focuses on assisting clients with their money relationship, spending habits, budgeting, saving, debt payoff, and investing education. Mel also assists small business owners with managing their personal and business financial systems.

To date, Mel has also presented on personal finance topics to creatives, small business owners, and public service employees.