Academics and Work Experience

I work as a substitute teacher aide for Nassau BOCES' Department of Special Education, specifically with the Center for Community Adjustment (CCA) program. CCA serves high school-aged students who are emotionally, behaviorally, or developmentally disabled to a moderate degree. In my role, I provide instructional support, assist with classroom organization, help with data collection, and support students in daily living tasks and behavior management. I have truly enjoyed connecting with the students at CCA, and in doing so, I’ve gained valuable insights into their emotional and mental needs. This experience has reinforced my passion for supporting students in a school setting and has deepened my commitment to pursuing a career in school social work.

I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad last summer with Stony Brook University, where I conducted an independent project and research in European studies. My focus was on the history of Greece, exploring significant cultural and historical sites such as the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, the Temple of Aphaia in Aegina, the Archaeological Site of Mystras in Sparta, the Bouboulina Museum in Spetses, and the Parthenon and Acropolis in Athens. This experience not only enriched my understanding of history but also allowed me to feel deeply connected to my cultural roots. The opportunity to learn through immersive experiences has inspired me to incorporate a greater appreciation for cultural heritage into my future work as a school social worker, where I aim to recognize and celebrate the diverse backgrounds of the students I support.

The GAP program provides a summer camp for individuals with developmental disabilities, offering activities like arts and crafts, sports, table games, music, dancing, and scheduled trips. In addition to my summer role, I also work throughout the year with both young and older adults, assisting with field trips and supporting social relationships. Many individuals I work with face challenges in connecting with others, and what I find most rewarding is helping them build meaningful connections. Watching friendships develop is incredibly fulfilling and has reinforced my desire to pursue a career in social work, where I can continue supporting others in fostering emotional well-being and social engagement.