Graduate Spotlights

Program(s): Childhood/Special Education 5-Year Program and Childhood Education 

Future Plans: I identify as a Bronx native, bilingual Dominicana, a university graduate, and a teacher. I am grateful to have graduated Manhattan University with a full time job at P.S. 207, just a few blocks away from campus, in a community where I can relate with my students and push them to accomplish all of their future dreams. In the future, I would like to continue my studies in order by reaching my “Masters+30” for my teaching career and hopefully move on to obtain a Ph.D in the near future. 

What made you choose the Kakos School of Science/Manhattan University?

Coming from a low-income family, I was unsure if I would be able to afford attending a private university. When I received my acceptance to Manhattan University, I was grateful that they had recognized my academic achievements and were willing to help me apply to grants and scholarships in order to make this a possibility. Even as a commuter student, Manhattan University has made me feel welcomed by keeping me updated on all upcoming events, providing resources such as the Multicultural Center, and numerous opportunities to get involved. As I have spent more time on campus over the years, the O’Malley Library and Kelly Commons are one of the best places to have a study session, grab a coffee, spark a conversation, and explore new clubs. It feels so surreal that I have now obtained my master's at Manhattan University in just five years by competing the Dual/Special Education Masters Program. 

Is there one person, place or thing that inspired you during your time at Manhattan University?

Throughout my time at Manhattan University, it is difficult to pinpoint one specific factor that has inspired me. However, something that I will forever be grateful for is the faculty members. I remember many moments where I felt like I chose the wrong career or was not sure of my next steps. Moments where I lost confidence in myself and felt like giving up. However, I had professors, advisors, and counselors just an email away. Lisa Rizopoulous has not only been my advisor and professor but one of my biggest supporters. I am so grateful to have met someone like her as well as other professors who were so willing to help me and check in on me. Each time I walk onto the Manhattan University campus, I feel at home. I am so fortunate to be able to call myself a Jasper. 

Your advice to an incoming Jasper:

I want to remind all Jaspers that we are a community of aspiring, motivated, intellectual individuals. Do not be afraid to reach out to the members of your community whenever you feel like you need support, that is what makes this community so special. Take advantage of all of the opportunities available and push yourself to engage in experiences that may seem intimidating at first. Those will be your best memories. Even when certain moments may feel challenging, know that those will be your best learning experiences. Push yourself to your full potential and know that you are making a difference in our world one step at a time. I would like to share this quote with all of you by Mother Teresa:  “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.” 

Program: Professional Accounting - B.S./MBA

Future Plans: I will be joining Andersen in July as a full-time tax associate specializing in private client services. I am excited to be joining a firm filled with fellow Jaspers! Working with high-net worth individuals is something I've always found intriguing. By joining Andersen, I'll be doing just that while being surrounded by a supportive group of alumni who want to see me succeed. Since 2022, Michael Van De Loo ’94 has served as an inspiring role model for me, and I am eager for him to become my managing director.

What made you choose the O'Malley School of Business/Manhattan University?

I knew I wanted to pursue accounting and begin my career in New York City. While doing research, I stumbled upon a few articles that listed Manhattan University as having one of the top accounting programs in New York. When I arrived I fell in love with the exciting hustle you feel on campus. As a commuter student, it was also important for me to find a college that offered on-campus activities that welcomed me into the community. The O'Malley School of Business excels in doing just that by providing a wide array of clubs and events that gather students together. It just felt like the perfect place for me to grow and I could not be happier with the results.

Is there one person, place or thing that inspired you during your time at Manhattan University?

My connection with upperclassmen inspired me to strive for success and motivated me to give back to underclassmen, just as they had done for me. Joining Beta Alpha Psi and the Accounting Society marked a pivotal moment that inspired my work at Manhattan University. I've gained invaluable knowledge and experiences from these groups that I would not have obtained otherwise. I would also like to thank Professor Aileen Farrelly, Dr. Mary Michel, Dr. Hanni Liu, Rhonda Shuler, Geri Taylor, Dean Gibson, and all my professors for all their guidance and support throughout the years. These wonderful people have done so much for me and I cannot imagine my time at Manhattan University without them.

Your advice to an incoming Jasper:

Firstly, get involved on campus! Joining a club, honor society, or volunteer activity are the best ways to build community, especially if you are a commuter. Second, get to know other students in your classes! A simple hello can lead to a great friendship. Lastly, never deny yourself an opportunity because you think you are not qualified. You never know what the person on the other side of that application sees in you. These three things can lead you on a great path in college and in life.

Program: Computer Science - M.S. 

Future Plans: Take the summer off, then pursue a full-time software engineering position in New York City.

What made you choose the Kakos School of Arts and Sciences/Manhattan University?

The welcoming and positive environment that the Computer Science department and their students fostered on Accepted Students Day was something that I hadn't felt at any of the other colleges I visited. That, plus the ability to easily minor in any of available "Arts" minors offered by the University was really appealing to me. I have always been interested in interdisciplinary fields such as web and game design.

Is there one person, place or thing that inspired you during your time at Manhattan University?

All of the faculty of the Computer Science department have had some sort of substantial, positive impact on me during my personal, professional, and academic development. Whether it was helping me discover what I wanted in a work-life balance, teaching me the technical skills that would help me land a job, or encouraging me to try out research, they have all helped and encouraged me to grow as a person and as a young professional.

Your advice to an incoming Jasper:

Try out as many clubs as you can and get involved. Whether you choose to participate in a professional development organization, a performing arts group, or a community volunteer program, there are plenty of ways to get involved in the community on and off campus.

Program: Civil Engineering - M.S.

Future Plans: I am currently pursuing a Ph.D in Civil Engineering at New York University Tandon School of Engineering, conducting research under Dr. Magued Iskander. Upon completion of my Ph.D I intend to either enter the professional field as a geotechnical engineer, or continue my career in research and academia at an educational institution.

What made you choose the School of Engineering/Manhattan University?

I chose Manhattan University for its history as an esteemed educational institution, especially in the field of civil engineering. Additionally, Manhattan University has a vast alumni network, especially within the New York City metropolitan region. This network affords recent graduates great opportunities when entering the professional field.

Is there one person, place or thing that inspired you during your time at Manhattan University?

One person that had been exceedingly influential to me during my time at Manhattan University, and continues to be to this day, is Dr. Mehdi Omidvar. He introduced me to the field of engineering research and allowed me to immerse myself in work that I find intellectually stimulating and fulfilling. His wisdom and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my career path and fostering my passion for engineering research. Without his mentorship and the opportunities he has afforded me, I would not be on the path to obtaining my Ph.D today. Dr. Omidvar's guidance and wisdom have not only transformed my academic and professional pursuits but continue to serve as a wellspring of inspiration.

Your advice to an incoming Jasper: As you start your academic career, remember these tenets: 1) embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, 2) seek connections with peers and mentors who inspire you, 3) never underestimate the power of resilience in achieving your goals, and 4) stay curious. Your time in university is a chance to explore, learn, and discover your passions. Make the most of it!