In 2007, I began Lehman College as a freshman straight out of high school. I didn't have much support, I didn't know what classes to take, and I didn't attend a tour or a freshman orientation. I felt completely lost. I ended up overwhelming myself with too many courses and dropping or failing most of them. This went on back and forth for some time. I left Lehman to work, but eventually, I came back. This time I found the CiT program and decided to minor in Early Childhood Education and major in Social Work. I finally had the support that I needed, and I started thriving. My grades began improving, which led me to be on the Dean's list for the Spring 2022 semester, achieving a 4.0 GPA for the first time! Also, in Spring 2022, I was accepted into the Social Work Program at Lehman. I'm really grateful to have CiT in my corner because they have truly stayed on top of me and even advocated for me. They helped me believe that I could get good grades and graduate. I even have the date for my future graduation party: June 3, 2024!

Thank you, CiT!

Thank you so much, CiT, for your support and guidance. This accomplishment of graduating at the end of this semester is possible thanks to people and programs like yours. CiT made me feel welcome at Lehman college. After ten years out of college and being a transfer student, a mother, and English as my second language, I was so scared of this new journey. Careers in Teaching assisted me with college services information (workshops such as financial literacy and how to apply to graduate school) and guided me in completing my early childhood education minor. They referred me to sign up for the certification exam prep workshops. I am currently a 3K teacher at Ready, Set, Learn (Bronx). I graduate at the end of this semester Class 2022! I plan to attend graduate school.

I joined the Careers in Teaching Program in the Fall of 2019 where I met Debora Rivera and the CiT staff. At the time, I was an Accounting Major, however, I wasn’t totally satisfied with pursuing this career. The semester prior to joining the CiT program was very challenging for me; my GPA within that semester was a total of 1.84. I knew I needed help with not only my academics, but also with choosing a career path that I would enjoy and make a difference in the lives of others. I began to receive support and encouragement as the CiT program provided workshops and resources that benefited my academic journey. During the pandemic in 2021, I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. Her birth pushed me to continue working towards my dreams of graduating. That year I declared my minor in Early Childhood, Childhood Education and in the Spring of 2021, I changed my major to Sociology. With the support of the CiT program, I was able to raise my overall GPA to 3.0. I am grateful for the times when I felt discouraged and with no hope. As a single mom, it did become challenging balancing my school, work and taking care of my daughter. It was in those moments that the CiT program gave me the encouragement that I needed to keep going forward. I am confident that I can obtain my dream of becoming an educator and become an inspiration to all.

As I reflect on my years at Lehman College, the first word that comes to mind is support; it was the unwavering support, particularly from CIT and TRiO that allowed me the opportunity to complete my undergraduate studies. I would not be exaggerating if I said that I would not be the person I am today without this incredible level of support. As a single parent, I was obviously facing many obstacles which could have derailed my dreams, so I am most appreciative of the assistance and guidance of all the members of staff who have contributed to my success. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone, especially Ms. Johanny Santana who played a pivotal role in molding me, through her highly professional counseling sessions I persevered. I must also point out that she went beyond the call of duty to ensure that I remain in the program. I am proud to say that Lehman College prepared me for entry into Sarah Lawerence College, a graduate program, where I received a full scholarship. Today, I am a Third Grade Teacher in a Chartered School, in the Bronx, where I am helping young boys and girls to follow their dreams as I continue to follow other passions. I am currently writing my autobiography entitled ‘In Love With The Possibilities’.