Originally from Grosse Pointe Park Michigan, Marissa received her Bachelor's of Science in Anthropology-Zoology and minor in Spanish from the University of Michigan in 2007.   From there, she earned a Masters in Broadcast Journalism from Syracuse University, the Newhouse School in 2008.

It was through her graduate program that she was able to intern for WCIA as a Washington D.C. correspondent.   Shortly after graduating, she was hired.

For many in the business, it was pretty clear they wanted to be a reporter since childhood. But Marissa's dream was to be a veterinarian. It wasn't until an internship at FOX 2 News in Detroit that her true passion was in TV news. 

"With everyday come new stories, new faces, and new learning experiences. I love how reporting takes you to so many new places and forces you to spark conversation with people you normally wouldn't," says Marissa.

"Journalism is such a rewarding career, and I'm proud to be able to represent Central Illinois. I look forward to my future endeavors. "

Marissa enjoys quiet time spent with her cat Charlie or reading.

"But I do enjoy a good trip to the gym or a lazy Sunday at a coffee shop with nothing but a newspaper," she says.
 
Marissa is also a volunteer with the Illinois Humane Society.