Educational Background:

B.A. Criminal Justice, Minor in Spanish, Paralegal Certificate – Marist College, 2017

Master’s in Public Administration Double Concentration in Public Policy & Administration, and Management & Operations – John Jay College, 2019

What were you involved with on campus as a student?

While at Marist I was involved in multiple clubs and organizations and also worked in multiple offices. I was a part of the Department of Spiritual Life and Service (formerly Campus Ministry) and was able to travel to Merida, Mexico for community service during Spring break. I was also in the Dance Ensemble club, a Liaison at the Social Service Advisory for Club Affairs, and a member of the ARCO club. I worked at the Marist Security Office and Marist Athletic department. I was also able to study abroad in Spain (Barcelona) Fall semester of my senior year with the CEA Study Abroad Program, and upon return, I was the New York Representative ambassador for the CEA program.

Favorite spot on campus:

My favorite place at Marist is definitely the Riverfront. Whenever I needed a break or wanted to go for a walk, I would walk to the boathouse and just sit by the Hudson River. I would call my sister and have long conversations while admiring the beautiful Hudson River view.

Favorite Marist tradition:

My favorite Marist tradition would be Alumni weekend. Being able to come back to Marist after you graduate, and see everyone is great! It is always good to have a community that you could go back to and reminisce about your time at Marist.

Favorite Marist memory:

This would be one of the yearly work parties that we had at the Security Office. My supervisors Iris and Elizabeth were always so kind to us and made sure we felt appreciated and included. At this party, we ate ethnic food, danced, and received presents from the Security Office. This was a great moment, which made us feel like a family.

Best advice for the college search:

I tell all my students to try to visit as many schools as possible. You want to make sure the College that you choose is the right fit for you. Get to know some of the tour guides, and learn about their values to see if they align with your values. Talk to a faculty member, and see how the interaction is between faculty members and students. If you feel comfortable, and at home when you set foot on campus, that is the place for you!

Why did you choose Marist?

I wanted to attend a close-knit community with a beautiful campus, and also be able to be under a two-hour drive to visit my family during weekends and breaks. Attending my brother’s graduation at Marist while I was still in High School was an amazing and unforgettable experience. At that moment I realized that Marist was the perfect place for me. My parents and I fell in love with the campus and learned that Marist was the perfect fit.

What makes Marist special to you?

As a Latinx who emigrated from the Dominican Republic at age 13, Marist opened many doors for me and was an exciting academic challenge! As a student, I was able to take advantage of the many resources that Marist offers, met wonderful professors, and staff members, such as those from the Center for Multicultural Affairs, who worked above and beyond to help me, and all students succeed. The people, the resources, the opportunities, and the sense of community are and will continue to be very special to me.