CUNY SPS is proud to showcase alum Dominique Mendez (Psychology MA ’24). Mendez, who works as a specialist in theater and events at John Jay College, was named on CUNY's "50 under 50" top alumni list in 2024. In the excerpt from an interview on the CUNY SPS Medium Blog, Mendez discusses how her CUNY SPS education and MA in Psychology degree played a role in her success.
What made you choose CUNY SPS for your degree?
I chose CUNY SPS because of its reputation for offering flexible, high-quality education that caters to adult learners. I was looking for a program that would fit my busy life while still challenging me intellectually. CUNY SPS not only offered the flexibility I needed but also provided a supportive and diverse community of students and faculty who truly understand the needs of nontraditional students.
I [particularly] chose CUNY SPS because of its flexibility. I wanted to stay within CUNY as I received both my associates and bachelors degree from CUNY. I wasn’t sure if I would be able to advance my education because of my work schedule which can including late nights and occasional weekends. However, at a CUNY grad fair hosted at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, I learned that CUNY SPS had a fully online Masters [Psychology] program. I was intrigued that there was a possibility for me to engage in an online classroom setting even with my busy schedule. CUNY SPS made my dreams of furthering my education a reality and no longer a simple dream.
How do you think CUNY SPS impacted your success after graduating?
The CUNY SPS [MA in Psychology] program was designed to allow students to learn skills, use the tools, and gain motivation, to navigate the intersectionality of both personal and professional obstacles. I am grateful for the time spent at CUNY SPS, as I was able to work closely with my professors and student services. My experience at CUNY SPS changed my life in more ways than just gaining an education and I am incredibly grateful for the faculty and staff who saw me as more than just a student in a classroom but as a whole person.
Do you have a fondest memory of CUNY SPS you would like to share?
One of my fondest memories was during a group project where we were tasked with creating a real-world solution to a current social issue. The collaboration, brainstorming, and diversity of perspectives that came together in that project was incredible. It reinforced my belief in the power of diverse teams and the importance of collaboration in problem-solving.
Another fondest memory was finishing my Capstone defense. It was the final lap of all of my hard work, late nights, and moments of uncertainty and self-doubt. However, this process engaged me in research, outreach, and collaborations with faculty and staff. I remember all the positive reinforcements that kept pushing me forward from family, friends, classmates and my professors. The completion of my capstone defense showered me in pride and it’s a feeling I will never forget.
What advice would you give to a new CUNY SPS student?
The advice that I would give to any new CUNY SPS student is to continue to move forward. Move forward with your ideas, dreams, and curiosity because CUNY SPS will give you more than what you were asking for. Never let the stumbles keep you stagnant. Push through it all and you will be surprised how far you can go.
If you met a potential adult learner who was on the fence about returning to school after a break in their education, what insights/advice would you share?
I would remind them that it never too late to start on one’s academic career. I would also encourage them to know that life experiences that one gains from being out of school can ultimately become an advantage. This can provide additional perspectives and make one a well-rounded student. Bring your experiences into the classroom, and you will be surprised how you can inspire others.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I would like to see myself furthering my career in higher education. I hope to advance my leadership skills by engaging in more roles and developing programs within my field of interest. I would continue to mentor and advise students and create safe spaces for them to form their own communities. I would also like to teach, because I had the privilege to be taught by professors that empowered me and I want to do the same with the next generation.
About the CUNY School of Professional Studies
As New York's leading online school since 2006, the CUNY School of Professional Studies (CUNY SPS) offers the most online bachelor's and master's degree options at the City University of New York, and serves as the University's first undergraduate all-transfer college. With over 26 degrees and numerous other non-degree and grant-funded workplace learning programs, CUNY SPS meets the needs of adults who wish to finish a bachelor's degree, progress from an associate's degree, earn a master's degree or certificate in a specialized field, and advance in the workplace or change careers. Consistently ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report for its online offerings, CUNY SPS has emerged as a nationwide leader in online education. The School's renowned and affordable online programs ensure that busy working adults may fulfill their educational goals on their own time and schedule.
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