Your Support Team at Approach

Michelle Fernandes - Executive Director

My goal is to make sure our students are always confident and happy about their choice to study at Approach!!!  We live by our mission statement and aim to provide high-quality, flexible and affordable English and test preparation programs to students from all over the world exceeding our students expectations. Our goals are to ensure that all of our students acquire the desired English language ability level they need in order to be successful in their academic, professional and personal lives, and that they receive tailored educational advising while enjoying an enriching cultural experience within the best academic environment.  

We work every day to help our students achieve their educational goals and further pursue their dreams. If you feel we are failing in maintaining this statement at any given time, E-mail me at Mfernandes@approachusa.com or simply come in to my office.

Milica Zafirova - Admissions & Students affairs

I help students to get acquainted with the school. If you have questions about how the classes work, the admission and registration process or the different courses, come talk to me. I am also here if you have any questions about your progress or materials. My job is to guide students to achieve their desired level of English and make sure that nobody is falling behind on their academic goals. I was once a student at Approach and I have walked in your shoes, so don’t hesitate to come to me with any problems you may have. If you have questions about any of the above, contact me at MZafirova@approachusa.com.

Ruth Hogan - Admissions & Students affairs

I am here to help students make the most of their time at Approachand in Boston. I have worked at schools in the United States, Turkey, and the Marshall Islands and love working with international students. In 2011, I moved to Boston and started working at Approach. Students can come to me with questions about the school, their classes, or anything else they may need. If you’re aboard and have any questions about the application or the programs at Approach, send me an e-mail at rhogan@approachusa.com  and I'd be happy to help.  

Sarah Froberg - Admissions & Students affairs Coordinator, DSO

I manage admissions to all Approach programs and help students get settled at school. If you have questions about any of our programs, the application process, the visa application at the consulate abroad or changing your immigration status to F1 (student) while in the US, registering for classes upon arrival, taking the placement test and finding your classes on the schedule, I'm here to help. 

Twice per month, I hold Student orientation sessions and explain all about the school, courses and academics, your responsibilities as an International (F1) student and answer any questions you may have regarding school policies and procedures. I'm also available if simply need help getting around the city, so please come talk to me in the main office anytime you need help or email me at SFroberg@approachusa.com

Sonia joyned the staff in 2005. Worked in a Financial industry for almost 20 years and is passionate about learning new areas in the field.  Her responsibilities include monitoring and verifying accounting and report to the Director. Helping with accounts payable and receivable. Sonia is a detail oriented and comfortable working with people. E-mail me at steles@approachusa.com 

Tammie Key - Principal Designated School Official, PDSO

I am responsible for advising our international students on all F1 (student visa) issues. Twice per month I host orientation sessions for new and current students to explain the rights and responsibilities of F1 students. I also help students with immigration forms and questions regarding maintaining or changing their immigration status. 

Whenever you have questions about your I-20, visa, or immigration regulations, come to speak with me. Make sure to tell me your plans before you finish your studies at Approach so that I can ensure you SEVIS record is properly updated. Questions?? concerns? Email me at TKey@approachusa.com or schedule one appointment at the main office.