Let’s meet Erin, a graduate student in QC’s Speech Pathology Program. Inspired by her own personal experiences, Erin wants to help people communicate better and give back to her community. She earned her Bachelor’s degree at Queens and enjoyed her experience so much that she’s back for her Master’s degree. Tell us your story, Erin.
– Thanks, Desi. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to become a speech-language pathologist. When my brother was three, he was diagnosed with autism. I had the opportunity to sit in his speech and language sessions and I actually saw improvements in his communication. Since then, I’ve been committed to supporting children just like my brother, to live independently and communicate. When researching top speech-language pathology programs, Queens College was among the top in New York for both their undergraduate and their graduate programs. What stood out to me was the individualized attention and mentorship that I would receive throughout the two programs. In the undergraduate program, I received one-on-one attention to keep me on track. And in the graduate program, we have the privilege of being a tight-knit group of 16 students. We collaborate with one another on group projects and we attend interprofessional events to become better clinicians. During my first semester, I had the opportunity to work with professors to present research, bringing awareness to mental health of minority aphasia populations. I’ve also gained real-world experience at the Queens College Speech-Language Hearing clinic. There, I’ve worked with children on social engagement, play skills, and language development. I’ve also worked with adults with Parkinson’s to project their voice and people with aphasia with word-finding techniques. My professors push me to be confident in my clinical skills. They always provide me with feedback, and with their immense support, I have been able to confidently and effectively deliver services to a variety of clients in different medical and school settings. The undergraduate and graduate programs for speech-language pathology have prepared me in more ways that I could hope for. After graduation, I plan to work in the school system, serving children with communication disorders from low-income BIPOC communities. Back to you, Desi.
– Thanks, Erin. With personalized support from faculty, a variety of research opportunities and access to real-world experience, you are equipped to help make your community a better place and to live out the Queens College motto, “We Learn So That We May Serve.”
Now, here’s Arturo, a senior History Secondary Education major and President of the Committee for Disabled Students at Queens College. Through his classes and extracurricular activities, Arturo has grown into a campus leader organizing and speaking at many campus events while advocating for a more inclusive campus at both Queens and CUNY. Arturo, tell us more.
– Thanks, Desi. Hey, everyone. When I was in high school, I lost my vision. And for a while, it felt like a light in me dimmed, but getting my guide dog, Vangie, helped me regain my confidence. Choosing a college wasn’t just about academics. It was about finding a place where we could both thrive. And Queens College, with its beautiful open campus, was the perfect fit. Now, it’s even more than that. It’s a place where we can lead and make an impact as I pursue a degree in education. For most of my time at QC, I’ve served as president of the Committee for Disabled Students and worked with the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities to advocate for a more inclusive campus. These experiences have taught me that leadership is more than just speaking up. It’s about opening doors for those who come next, and this has inspired my love for teaching. Ever since I was young, I’ve loved storytelling. History isn’t just about dates and events to me. It’s about stories that shape who we are and the lessons we carry forward. I want to share this passion through teaching, helping students see history not as something in the past, but as something that impacts our lives today. Student life here is dynamic and full of opportunities. From cultural events to student led initiatives, there’s always something happening. One of my proudest moments was organizing our annual CUNY and citywide ADA barbecue hosted at Queens College, an event that brought together students from all backgrounds to celebrate accessibility and inclusion. After graduation, I plan to continue advocating for disability rights while I pursue a career in education. Queens College has not only prepared me for the classroom, but has empowered me to be a voice for change. That’s my story. Back to you, Desi.
– What an inspiring story, Arturo. Thanks for sharing. Queens College has become a leader in inclusivity, making it a key part of its most recent strategic plan, ensuring that students of any background can succeed at Queens College. Thanks again, Arturo and Vangie.
Time to meet Stephanie, a senior Fashion Design major in QC School of Arts. Stephanie comes from a family of QC alumni and is forming her own legacy with the support of outstanding faculty, a variety of courses, and state-of-the-art facilities. Let’s hear more about it, Stephanie.
– Thanks, Desi. Hey, everyone. As a kid, I loved doing hand-sewing work, especially hand-sewing mini pillows and doll dresses. My interest in fashion started because of my abuela, who is a seamstress who loves making clothes and alterations. This passion has led me to study fashion in high school and continue here at Queens College. My mother attended QC in the 2000s and was the only female in the computer science major. I’m continuing this legacy by developing my skills in fashion design. The Fashion and Design program provides valuable courses such as sewing, pattern making, fashion sketching, fashion history, global fashion, textiles, and more. The professors generally care about their students’ futures and we built a strong community within our major. Recently, the apparel company, Kith, donated a sewing lab to the program, giving it it significant boost and allowing my classmates and I to work on the newest equipment. This donation also gave our program nationwide recognition. I spent hours at a time in this space creating and collaborating with my classmates. I created the Fashion Design Club at Queens College and served as its president. With nearly 100 students, it has been a phenomenal networking opportunity, not only here on campus, but in the New York City fashion industry. I have been very fortunate to intern with the curator of the Queens College Fashion and Textiles Collection, Emily Ripley. The Queens College Fashion Textiles Collection houses garments, accessories, and textiles that range from haute couture to every day, from the early 1800s through the 21st century. I got to work on the collection and study archival preservation techniques that are used not only at QC, but also at other museums like the Met Costume Institute. My experiences here at QC have enhanced my love for fashion and have created unlimited opportunities for my future. Back to you, Desi.
– Thanks, Stephanie. The sewing lab looks like a phenomenal place to learn and explore your creativity. And what better place to learn about the fashion industry than in New York City? Maybe I’ll be wearing one of your designs one day on a future episode of The College Tour.
Here now is Stavros, a junior Media and Communications major who has been learning all about his passions, thanks to QC’s robust liberal arts curriculum. Stavros has two minors and works with admissions and the student newspaper, allowing him to have a unique and well-rounded college experience that perfectly fits his needs. Take it away, Stavros.
– Thanks for the introduction, Desi. During my senior year of high school, I was unsure where I wanted to go to college. I ended up picking a school that didn’t feel right for me. After one year, I knew I needed to make a change. Once I transferred to Queens College, I was sure I finally made the right choice. When I found out about the media studies program here, I was immediately drawn in. Finally, I could find a major that blended my personal interest with academics. My minors in film studies and modern Greek help me focus in the area I’m passionate about while also allowing me to connect with my culture and heritage. Queens is one of the most diverse places in the world, and QC is no exception. During my job at the Undergraduate Admissions Office, I speak to students from all around the world who are interested in attending QC. I love hearing so many different stories and it’s part of what motivated me to join the school newspaper, The Knight News, and tell stories about Queens College and its students. The support I’ve received as a media studies student has been amazing. Faculty are committed to helping students individualize their career plans. And through the CUNY Jobs Council, students can find internship opportunities so that we’re prepared to find jobs after college in fields like advertising, film, journalism, and more. And with our proximity to Manhattan, we have access to the best of all these industries. My time here at QC has truly prepared me for life. As a media studies student, I’ve had the privilege to speak directly with hundreds of different people and learn about what’s important to each and every one of them. With what I’ve learned here at QC, I feel ready to take on the world. Back to you, Desi.
– Sounds like you’ve been keeping busy, Stavros. With such a variety of courses and experiences, you are sure to have plenty of opportunities to choose from after graduation. Best of luck with whatever you do and thanks for sharing your story.
Let’s welcome Kirk, a graduate student studying Behavioral Neuroscience. Originally from Guyana, Kirk found a new home here at QC during his undergraduate studies. Kirk dreams of being a doctor, and with QC’s Accelerated Master’s Program, he’s on the fast track to doing so. Take it away, Kirk.
– Thanks for the introduction, Desi. Hey, everyone. Moving to New York from Guyana was a big change. I wasn’t sure where to start when choosing a college, but Queens College turned out to be the perfect decision for me. Since childhood, I’ve always wanted to be a doctor and have been fascinated by the brain. That passion led me to study neuroscience. The program here is especially valuable for pre-med students, offering opportunities to conduct research and defend an honor thesis. I completed in competitive research fellowship that allowed me to work alongside leading scientists and publish my research, contributing to the field while gaining valuable experience from medical school. The faculty here aren’t just professors. They are mentors who generally care about your student success. Through their guidance, I won the Barry M. Goldwater scholarship, a prestigious national award, recognizing excellence in STEM research. And the Paul Clapper award, Queens College’s highest honor for academic excellence, leadership, and community impact. Last year, I earned my bachelor of arts in neuroscience, biology, and psychology, and served as commencement speaker. My love for neuroscience led me to pursue an accelerated master’s degree. This allows students to build on their undergraduate research and complete their master’s in one additional year. There are also teaching assistant opportunities available. QC has an incredible student life in a prime location. I run the neuroscience club. I was the president of Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students. The college offers an on-campus housing and there’s affordable housing nearby. I live just one block away. Must be just a bus ride from major subway line to go straight into the city. Queens College has given me the knowledge, experience, and confidence to pursue the career of my dreams. No matter your passion, QC provides the tools to help you achieve it. Back to you, Desi.
– Thanks, Kirk. QC’s accelerated degree programs allow qualified students to take coursework for a master’s degree or a graduate certificate as an undergraduate student. Admitted students begin taking graduate coursework at undergraduate tuition rates in their senior year, giving students like Kirk a chance to get ahead. Good luck in medical school, Kirk.
It’s time to meet Lauren, a Computer Science major. Lauren is part of CUNY’s prestigious Macaulay Honors College, a highly selective college where New York’s most promising students receive financial and academic support to realize their leadership potential. More than 250 alumni of this elite college have become Rhodes, Fulbright, and Truman scholars. Lauren chose QC as her host campus, so please tell us more about it, Lauren.
– Thanks, Desi, and welcome to Queens College, everyone. Four years ago when I first walked through the gates of QC, I had no idea what my future was going to hold, but in a school like QC with so many options, this meant I could explore different avenues of study, and my love of academia led me to the Macaulay Honors College. Being a Macaulay Honors and Queen College student means that I have not one, but two college identities, and that means double the opportunities as well. Whether I’m participating on on-campus clubs or meeting one-on-one with my own personal Macaulay advisor, I get the perks of being an honor student while enjoying the campus life of QC. As the VP of Girls who Code at QC, which is an organization dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for women in computer science and STEM, I help promote events from beginner-friendly workshops to fun social picnics on The Quad. It’s been such a great experience showing students that you can learn to code, no matter your background. I’ve created a circle of friends who are always supporting one another through every achievement and milestone, and I’m determined to help support others as well, so I became a computer science and math tutor at the Learning Commons free tutoring center and a peer mentor at the first-year experience program. I received support from both of these organizations as a freshman, so I’m determined to give back and support these students as well. Day after day, I’m inspired to grow my love of teaching and mentoring, and I hope to become a college professor myself. I plan to continue at QC for my master’s degree, where I hope to gain experience as an adjunct professor in computer science and teach more students. Hey, Desi, maybe I’ll see you in my class one day. Back to you.
– Wow! Thanks, Lauren. As a member of one of the highest rated public honors colleges in the nation, Lauren will have access to a vast network of prestigious alumni and the city’s unlimited opportunities, all while enjoying the perks of QC’s campus life.
Let us introduce you to Lorraine, a leader in the Honors College, majoring in human biology. The Honors College at UAlbany was ranked one of the 50 best in the nation by college transitions, and it’s where motivated students like Lorraine can challenge themselves and she is really going for it. Tell us all about your journey, Lorraine, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine after undergoing multiple surgeries as a child, it wasn’t easy, but it left me with everlasting gratitude for the hospital staff and inspired me to help others. After many college tours, it was here at UAlbany where it felt like I belonged where I’d be able to pursue my childhood goals. UAlbany has a variety of organizations and opportunities that allow me to tap into my medical interests. I’m an EMT with you Albany’s five Quad Volunteer Ambulance Service, which serves the entire campus. I’ve been able to learn how to work as part of a team to problem solve and communicate with patients. We have many pre-health organizations on campus that plan fun and informative events for students. For instance, through Project Sunshine, I get to do crafts with pediatric patients at a local hospital in Albany. I was also invited to join our Honors College where more than 200 students work together in small interdisciplinary seminar courses to develop their reasoning and analytical skills as they build expertise in their field through advanced courses in their majors. As the Honors College student governing board president, I lead board meetings at plan fun and engaging events for my fellow students. With the support from the amazing faculty, mentors and friends that I’ve met from my time here at UAlbany, it is safe to say that this school has contributed greatly to my success and provided me with impactful experiences to help me further my goals. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Lorraine. We are so inspired by your drive to help others and chase your dreams. It sounds like you landed at the right university for you. Great work and thank you for sharing your story with us. Take care.
Let’s meet Davani. She’s a communication and theater major who’s making the most of life on campus? The student body at UAlbany is a diverse bunch representing many backgrounds and cultures between the very clubs, activities, facilities, and more. Great Danes can always find a way to get involved just like Davani. Tell us all about it.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. As a New Yorker, I’m used to being surrounded by diversity and I wanted to attend a university that reflected that same energy. With more than 250 clubs and organizations at UAlbany, I have found countless ways to get involved, and it has given me the perfect balance of opportunities to stay, meet new people and grow. One of the things I love the most about UAlbany is the vibrant campus life. Whether you’re interested in the arts, student government, or cultural organizations, there’s something for everyone. For me, theater has been a major part of my journey. I performed in multiple shows with the theater department and other clubs. I’ve built confidence and friendships that will last a lifetime. Student wellbeing is also a priority here. The well is a space dedicated to helping students recharge. Being able to express myself and unwind in the dance studio at the Well has been an incredible way to de-stress and stay balanced. And staying active is easy with their recreation and wellness programs, which include everything from dance classes to fitness training. Food is also a huge part of the college experience, and you Albany make sure students have access to diverse and delicious options. With global Cuisines offered across campus there’s always something new to try. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, or exploring flavors from around the world. I have an internship with the Albany Dining and love hosting events on campus, which bring people together and create a sense of community. At UAlbany, I’ve learned the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing new experiences. I’ve discovered my passions, and developed skills that’ll last long after graduation. UAlbany isn’t just a campus, it’s a community that encourages students to thrive. Back to you, Alex.
– Amazing Davani from performing, and staying healthy, to try new foods and building lifelong friendships you are proof that anyone can do what they love at UAlbany and then some. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Say hello to Philip. He’s a business administration major who’s doing double duty as a student and a cadet in the Army ROTC program. Philip came to UAlbany for its friendly environment and to expand his leadership skills through challenging academics and rewarding community service. Tell us all about a Philip, take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. My journey to UAlbany was anything but ordinary. I grew up in the rodeo capital of the Philippines where I learned the values of hard work, family, faith, and service. Moving to the US I wanted a university where I could challenge myself academically while also preparing to become a US Army officer. We did strong business programs, leadership opportunities, and a welcoming community. I knew UAlbany was a perfect fit. Here at UAlbany, I’ve had the chance to mentor fellow students and cadets, participate in the army color guard, and volunteer for the regional food bank. At the Mastery School of Business, I’ve been able to join several student business leadership groups where I’ve gained valuable experience in teamwork, crisis management, and adaptability skills that are just as important in the military as they are in the business world. I also chose UAlbany for its Army ROTC program. As a cadet in the Mohawk Battalion, I’ve had the privilege to lead others during field training exercises and navigating complex scenarios. ROTC fosters a sense of unity, not only within the Army, but also with the Naval and Air Force ROTC programs. Beyond ROTC, the Center for Leadership and Service also provides students with opportunities to take part in networking events, workshops and service learning projects. Whether you wanna lead in business, the military or the community, UAlbany gives you the tools to do so. For me, it’s where I’m building my future, and for you, it could be the place where you take your first steps towards achieving your own dreams. I hope of giving you a glimpse of what makes you all meet such a great place to grow, lead, and succeed. Alex, tell us what’s next.
– Philip, we love your dedication and strong vision for your future. It sounds like UAlbany has everything you need to continue growing and reaching for the stars. Best wishes to you as you head out to make a difference in the world. Thanks again.
Okay, everyone, let’s check in with Cat. She earned her bachelor’s at UAlbany and now she’s a graduate student here in public health. Cat’s goal in life is to help people with their physical and mental health. She’s already making an impact right here on campus and in the community. Go ahead, Cat. Tell us all about it.
– Thanks for the intro, Alex. Hey, everyone. As a Caribbean American growing up in New York City, I saw diabetes and high blood pressure all around me and thought these conditions were normal. Later I realized these conditions weren’t healthy. That inspired me to pursue a master of public health at the university at Albany to help my community live longer, healthier lives. At UAlbany, I started as a human biology major, taking biology and chemistry courses as an undergrad before discovering public health. I also served as a pure wellness ambassador with Middle Earth, a student run peer support service that offers free confidential assistance to students. We’re trained by mental health professionals and we support our peers with common challenges like stress, anxiety, relationship, and academics. I also delivered educational programs on mental health, alcohol and drug education, and I worked as a biology and statistics tutor for the collegiate science and technology entry program, which supports underrepresented students pursuing STEM careers. These experiences deepen my commitment to health equity and inspired me to be a student in the Master of Public Health program. The MPH program at UAlbany requires 720 internship hours. I’ve interned with the New York City Department of Health and a research organization called WESTAT in Maryland. With my focus in epidemiology and maternal and child health, I use data, statistical software and evidence-based research to promote health equity in vulnerable communities. UAlbany has shaped my growth as a future leader. I’ve found incredible opportunities, experiences and support here that have inspired me to pursue a doctor of public health in the future. Whatever your interests are, you’ll find the opportunities here to thrive. UAlbany has truly set me on my path to greatness. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my story Alex, back to you.
– What a great story, Cat. Your dedication to making a difference shines through and we love hearing about the many ways you’ve been able to pursue your passions at the university at Albany. You’re certainly on your way to doing great things. Thanks again Cat.