God Ismaly Previlon

What were some of the most defining aspects of your time at CUNY SPS?

My time at the CUNY School of Professional Studies was incredibly rewarding and transformative. It provided me with a rich and comprehensive learning experience that significantly deepened my understanding of the American legal system, with a particular focus on immigration law. Through the advanced certificate program, I gained valuable insights into the complexities of immigration policy and procedure, including how legal frameworks address the real-life challenges faced by immigrants. The coursework not only enhanced my theoretical knowledge but also strengthened my ability to analyze and interpret immigration issues with greater clarity and confidence. This educational journey has been instrumental in shaping my perspective and has equipped me with the tools necessary to navigate and contribute meaningfully to the field of immigration law.

What is the best piece of advice, or most important thing you learned at CUNY SPS?

One of the most important things I learned at CUNY SPS was the value of understanding the law not just as a set of rules, but as a living system that directly impacts people’s lives. The program emphasized the importance of critical thinking, ethical responsibility, and cultural sensitivity when working within the immigration field. I learned that effective legal advocacy requires both a strong grasp of legal principles and a deep sense of compassion for the individuals behind each case. This perspective has stayed with me and continues to guide how I approach complex legal issues.

Who influenced you the most? Please feel free to include anyone from the CUNY SPS community including faculty, staff, or fellow classmates.

From the moment I began my studies at CUNY SPS, I had no doubt that I would encounter exceptional individuals and dedicated professors who truly master their field and teach with passion. One professor in particular, Lianna Scull, made a lasting impact on my academic journey. While I may not know her full background or personal story, her support and commitment were evident from the very beginning. She played a key role in my acceptance by advocating for me to receive a conditional admission, despite my undergraduate GPA of 2.7 from Haiti.

The condition was clear: I had to earn a minimum GPA of 3.0 in my first semester to continue in the program. I embraced the challenge, determined to prove myself. Today, I stand not only as someone who successfully completed a rigorous and demanding academic journey, but also as someone who, in my own words, “repaid” CUNY SPS—earning a 4.0 GPA in all three semesters of the program. It was a powerful reminder that with the right guidance and determination, second chances can lead to excellence.

I will also remember Professor L. Batya Schwartz Ehrens for the profound impact she had on my learning experience at CUNY SPS. One of the most meaningful moments was during an Office Hours session, where I had the opportunity to witness her intellectual clarity, organization, and remarkable ability to explain complex legal topics with patience and precision. Her thoughtful feedback and insightful comments went far beyond the standard course materials—they challenged me to think critically, deepen my understanding, and pursue further research. What stood out most was her genuine engagement with each student. She carefully reviewed every classmate’s post and ensured that everyone felt supported and understood. Her dedication to teaching and to the success of her students was truly inspiring.

The diverse insights and thoughtful contributions from my classmates greatly enriched the learning experience. Each discussion brought new perspectives, and I particularly remember Alfredo, whose thought-provoking viewpoints consistently challenged us to think more deeply and critically. Overall, the quality of learning at CUNY SPS was exceptional. I am truly excited to apply this knowledge in service of the country and to contribute meaningfully to the field.

How has your CUNY SPS influenced your current job, and your career overall?

My studies at CUNY SPS have had a significant and lasting impact on my professional experience. Working as a security administrative assistant in an industry that employs a diverse immigrant workforce, I’ve been able to apply the knowledge gained through my studies to real-world challenges. I have supported leadership in gaining a deeper understanding of the immigrant experience, contributed to improving the hiring process, and assisted the Human Resources team in better serving the needs of our workers. Most notably, during recent government decisions concerning immigration, I played a key role in helping the HR team navigate immigration-related uncertainties while ensuring that the rights of our workers were respected and upheld. This experience has reinforced the practical value of my education and its relevance in promoting fairness and inclusion in the workplace.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The most rewarding aspect of my job is the opportunity for continuous growth. The organization values the contributions of its employees and actively acknowledges the impact of their work.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Honestly, that’s a difficult question, as the future holds many possibilities. However, I am committed to continuing my efforts to serve others and create meaningful impact. I have already begun developing a project focused on establishing a security training school, and I hope to finalize and expand it in the near future. Additionally, it is my dream to pursue an LLM and eventually sit for the New York State Bar. While financial limitations currently pose a challenge, I remain hopeful and determined to find the necessary resources to achieve this goal and further my contribution to the legal and immigrant communities.

OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM

• What show/s are you currently watching? House of the Dragon
• What is your favorite meal? Haitian Cuisine (Black Rice, Goat in Sauce, Veggies)
• What is your favorite line in a movie? “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”- Forrest Gump (1994)
• Favorite or most recent book you read? Most Recent – The things you can see only when you slow down of HAEMIN SUNIM.
• List 3 things you would bring to a deserted island. Water, survival blanket, and a fire starter.