BA in Psychology
Class of 2023
What were some of the most defining aspects of your time at CUNY SPS?
I was profoundly impressed not only by the wide range of courses offered within CUNY SPS’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program, but also by the exceptional caliber of both the academic offerings and the faculty. The institution upholds a high standard of education, characterized by rigorous coursework, a faculty of remarkable expertise and dedication, and abundant opportunities for research. What distinguishes CUNY SPS’s academic excellence is its unwavering emphasis on fostering critical thinking and intellectual growth. The program cultivates a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment, equipping students with the tools necessary for success in their post-graduation careers. In essence, CUNY SPS provides a collegiate experience that prioritizes profound intellectual engagement and academic rigor across both the curriculum and student life.
What is the best piece of advice, or most important thing you learned at CUNY SPS?
During my time at CUNY SPS, I was fortunate to engage in a series of transformative courses and to collaborate with an exceptional team of professors. However, it was Professor Neil Harbus who unequivocally confirmed that I was on the right trajectory in my professional journey. Over the course of several classes with Professor Harbus, each experience profoundly expanded my intellectual horizons, introducing me to novel ideas and skills that would go on to shape both my personal growth and professional development as a Psychotherapist. His courses not only ignited a deeper passion for the field, but also enhanced my understanding of its complexities. Professor Harbus consistently fostered an academic environment that encouraged critical thinking, challenging students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts, thereby cultivating both intellectual and practical expertise.
Who influenced you the most? Please feel free to include anyone from the CUNY SPS community including faculty, staff, or fellow classmates.
Professor Neil Harbus exemplifies the highest standards of academic excellence and serves as an inspiring force within the field of crisis intervention. In his Crisis Intervention and Safety course, I was able to cultivate both a deep intellectual understanding and a profound personal commitment to crisis counseling. Professor Harbus imparted critical skills for providing immediate, compassionate support to individuals in distress, emphasizing the importance of active listening, unconditional acceptance, and ensuring the safety of those in crisis. His teachings emphasized the significance of connecting individuals with essential resources, fostering an environment that allows them to process their emotions, and guiding them toward a constructive path forward. Through his guidance, I gained not only a solid theoretical foundation, but also a genuine passion for helping others navigate and overcome the challenges of crisis situations.
How has your CUNY SPS influenced your current job, and your career overall?
CUNY SPS not only solidified my career trajectory as a behavioral health professional, but also afforded me immediate opportunities to serve as a Crisis Counselor while advancing toward my graduate degree. I was particularly inspired by Professor Neil Harbus's Crisis Intervention and Safety course, which profoundly impacted my academic and professional journey, ultimately motivating me to pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Crisis Counseling from the NYU Silver School of Social Work.
Additionally, the advanced coursework I undertook within the Psychological Development track deeply engaged my intellectual curiosity, offering valuable insights that ignited a desire to further explore and contribute to this field. Upon completing my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, I was privileged to attend Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where I earned two Postgraduate Certificates in Early Childhood Development and Child Protection, further enriching my expertise and commitment to advancing the well-being of vulnerable populations.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job as a crisis counselor is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact during some of the most challenging moments in a person's life. Being there for someone in crisis, listening without judgment, and helping them find a sense of hope and direction can be incredibly powerful. Every time I’m able to help someone regain their sense of control or provide them with resources they might not have known about, it’s a reminder of why I chose this field. It’s also incredibly rewarding to see people go from feeling overwhelmed and isolated to gaining the strength and tools they need to move forward. The human connection is deeply fulfilling, and it reinforces why mental health support is so important.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself having successfully opened my own psychotherapy private practice, where I can provide high-quality care to individuals seeking support. Alongside that, I’m passionate about expanding my impact through a non-profit organization focused on behavioral health services for underprivileged children and families. I would love to create a space where they can access the mental health resources they need to thrive, regardless of financial barriers.
This goal ties closely to my values of making a meaningful contribution to the community and ensuring that mental health services are accessible to those who may otherwise go without. I see my work as both a practitioner and a community advocate growing hand in hand, with each area enriching the other. I’m excited to build a career that allows me to help individuals and families overcome challenges and create lasting positive change.
OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
What show/s are you currently watching? I'm not really a television person. I tend to prefer documentaries over regular TV shows. Recently, I watched a thought-provoking and award-winning documentary called Crystal City. It dives deep into the impact of crystal meth addiction within New York City's LGBTQ community. The documentary not only explores the causes and effects of addiction but also provides a hopeful look at the difficult journey toward recovery for many gay men. I find documentaries like this to be much more engaging and meaningful than typical TV shows, as they offer real-world insights and highlight important social issues.
What is your favorite meal? I'm definitely a foodie, so my favorite meal can change depending on my mood or what I'm craving at the time! But today, I’ll stick to something classic: Chicken Parmesan. There's just something about the crispy breaded chicken, the rich marinara sauce, and the gooey melted cheese that never gets old. It’s comforting, satisfying, and always hits the spot. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a side of pasta or garlic bread—can’t go wrong with that!
Favorite or most recent book you read? One of the most impactful books I’ve read recently is Girls Like Us: Fighting for a World Where Girls Are Not for Sale by Rachel Lloyd. It’s the deeply moving memoir of a survivor of the commercial sex industry, who not only survived unimaginable challenges but also dedicated her life to activism and helping other young girls escape similar situations.
What really resonated with me was Rachel’s journey of healing and how she channeled her trauma into purpose. Her story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of standing up for those who are vulnerable. I was inspired by her determination to make a difference, and it reaffirmed my commitment to advocating for social justice and supporting individuals who have experienced exploitation and trauma.
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, none, all? I've actually decided to take a step back from social media for the time being. As I'm focusing on my academic journey and working towards completing my MSW, I felt that reducing my time spent on social media allows me to prioritize my studies and professional development.
List 3 things you would bring to a deserted island. If I were stranded on a deserted island, I would bring three things that provide comfort, meaning, and motivation in my life. First, I would bring my Bible, as it offers spiritual guidance, peace, and hope, which would help me stay grounded in difficult circumstances. Second, I would want my family with me. While it may not be practical to physically bring them, their support and the thought of them would keep me focused on my sense of purpose and remind me of the importance of human connection. Finally, I would bring music, because it has a powerful way of lifting the spirit and providing emotional relief in times of solitude. Whether it’s to soothe me or give me strength, music is a key part of how I stay motivated and connected to the world around me.