Stephen Ippolito

"The next step in my journey is to use the knowledge I have acquired to become an advocate for people with disabilities. I will continue volunteering at the Lions Club to help others become independent and successful. In the near future, I would like to start an organization to better assist people with disabilities."

Why did you decide to work in the disability studies field?

I currently volunteer at the Lions Clubs International. I decided to work in the disability studies field because I wanted to enhance my knowledge and become an effective advocate for people with disabilities. 

What is the most gratifying aspect of your job?

In both my volunteer work and my employment at NYU, I am gratified that I am able to help people.

What is the most difficult aspect?

Many people need help, but refuse assistance. It is very hard to help someone, who will not help him or herself.

Why did you choose to earn your graduate degree in disability studies at CUNY SPS? 

I became interested in CUNY SPS after I saw an advertisement for online classes. My work schedule was hectic and I would have never obtained my college education if it were not for CUNY SPS’s online program.

What was one of your favorite courses? Favorite professors?

I learned a lot from each course, but my favorite is a tie between Research Methodology and Non-Profit Administration Services Management. These courses allowed me to adapt and enhance my skills, such as research report writing, which I utilize at my current job. All of the professors that I have had at CUNY SPS have been respectful, considerate, and caring towards me and other students. My favorite professors are Dr. Lisa Pollich, Dr. Mariette Bates, Dr. Devva Kasnitz, Dr. Beth Haller, and Dr. Margaret Gould. 

How have you grown as a result of your studies at CUNY SPS? 

My studies at CUNY SPS have given me the ability to become a much more effective writer, debater, and speaker. I have also learned the importance of teamwork and becoming a leader. Additionally, I have enhanced my time management skills and abilities to cope with stress-related work.

What advice would you offer someone considering applying for admission to the MA in Disability Studies program?

If you are interested in the Disability Studies field, I would definitely choose CUNY SPS. CUNY SPS is one of the few schools that offer this terrific program. CUNY SPS offers an excellent education at a great price, professors who teach and work in the field with a great amount of experience, networking options, and the opportunity to form a comradery with staff, faculty, and other students.  I would encourage anyone applying to CUNY SPS to take advantage of the online programs because they allow students a more flexible option to work around job schedules.

What’s next for you in your personal/professional journey?

The next step in my journey is to use the knowledge I have acquired to become an advocate for people with disabilities. I will continue volunteering at the Lions Club to help others become independent and successful. In the near future, I would like to start an organization to better assist people with disabilities.

And here are some quick, fun facts about Stephen:

• Place of employment: I am currently employed by New York University.
• Job title: I am a Public Safety Officer at New York University
• Area of residence: I live in Brooklyn, New York
• Weirdest place you have studied: The weirdest place I ever studied in was in my home gym.
• Best thing about your community or NYC: New York City has diverse opportunities for people to become successful.
• What you enjoy doing in your spare time: I enjoy reading, volunteering for community service, and traveling.  

Read more about Master of Arts in Disability Studies