New York Needs You

New York Needs You (NYNY) fights for economic mobility for ambitious, low-income college students. We do this by providing intensive career development, mentorship, and professional networks to enable students to realize their academic and career aspirations. www.newyorkneedsyou.org

[newyorkneedsyou]

Team NYNY Runs the 2013 ING NYC Marathon!

NYNY staff members go the extra mile every day. On November 3rd, 5 NYNY staff members will run an extra 26.2 miles in support of NYNY and the organization's fight for economic mobility for ambitious low-income college students! Jack Corcoran, Bryan Garcia, Kimberly Harris, PJ Kim and Jaimie Krause will join NYNY Founder and Board Chair Robert Reffkin in running the 2013 ING NYC Marathon!

NYNY: Team NYNY, we are so proud of you! Let’s start from the beginning. Why did you become a member of Team NYNY?

Kim: Running a marathon has always been a dream and I thought that this would be the perfect opportunity to link a personal goal with a mission that means a lot to me.     

Bryan: I wanted to raise awareness for this amazing cause while pursuing a lifelong personal goal! Being part of Team NYNY means a lot!  It’s rare to work, train, and socialize with such a great group of like-minded individuals who are all just as passionate as you are. I feel blessed.

Jack: Running the marathon as a part of Team NYNY is a great way for me to be able to spread the word about the important work that we do at NYNY. In addition, over the last few years I have been thinking of running a marathon for the first time, but I was waiting for major motivation to fully commit. When the opportunity came up to join Team NYNY in running the NYC Marathon, I knew this was the motivation I had been looking for.  The combination of running the NYC Marathon (a highly competitive race to even get into) and supporting NYNY in the process was simply too good of an opportunity to pass up.

Jaimie: I joined Team NYNY because I wanted to give back in every possible way to the organization which inspires me and fuels my passion for fighting for economic mobility. Also, I kind of like running. Kind of… (laughs)

NYNY: What motivates you to run and complete the marathon?

Bryan: The Fellows do! Seeing how they consistently step out of their comfort zone and rise to challenges has been my ongoing motivation.

Jaimie: It is one of those bucket list items that shouldn’t be missed while living in New York! I have heard so many incredible stories about experiences running this race. In fact, my cousin (who has lived here for several years now) says Marathon Day is her absolute favorite day in New York City. I am thrilled to be a part of it!

Kim: The NYNY and NJNY Fellows motivated me to run the NYC Marathon!  I have been involved with NYNY since its inception and from day 1 our Fellows have inspired me. Despite facing severe obstacles, our Fellows have relentless spirits, unmatched work ethics and resilience. Our Fellows inspired me to dedicate my profession, and now my physical endurance, to their professional successes.  

Jack: There are three things that motivate me to complete the marathon.  First, I’m proud to increase awareness of the organization by participating. Second, I am motivated by my teammates, particularly Bryan and Jaimie, who I can’t imagine making it through the long training runs without.  Finally, I am motivated by the importance of personal commitment in my life. My dad taught me that a person’s word is the most important thing we have and that once I commit to something, I must follow through. 

NYNY: Is this the first long-distance race that you are taking part in? What is the most challenging part about preparing for the race?

Jack: In October 2011, I ran my first half-marathon (13.1 miles) in northern California.  A year later, I ran another half-marathon in western Maryland, near where I grew up, and more recently, in May 2013, I ran the Brooklyn half-marathon. In October 2013 I completed my first Tough Mudder, an 11-mile obstacle course race that forced my teammates and I to swim in ice-water, experience electric shocks, and scale numerous walls and hills. However, training for a marathon is an entirely different experience.  For the half-marathons, I was able to run them successfully with minimal training. This race is different because I have truly committed to a training plan and that the training runs make my half-marathons look like nothing!

Bryan: Yes, this is my first long-distance running race. Biggest challenge is to manage my time appropriately so that I can train.

Jaimie: This is not my first marathon but I am excited at redefining how I compete in a marathon when so much is at stake. I ran a marathon about ten years ago and I am looking forward to sharing the experience with people who are personally and professionally so close to my heart. Training with Jack and Bryan has made all the difference and I couldn't imagine a better team!

NYNY: Completing a marathon is a serious challenge and a big accomplishment! How are you preparing for the big day? What changes did you have to make to your daily routine?

Jaimie: I am preparing by eating everything in sight! Because we burn over 2,000 calories on long runs, I find myself constantly wanting to eat. I have rediscovered my love for pasta and ice cream. I eat ice cream about four times a week. It is my secret ingredient to successful running.

Jack:  I only decided to run the marathon about two months in advance, so I haven’t had the recommended training time. The biggest change to my daily routine has simply been about time.  Trying to fit training runs into my schedule has been a challenge, but I am sure it will pay off come November 3rd. I put together a plan that includes running three times per week; one short run (3-4 miles) an intermediate run (6-7 miles) and a progressively longer long run (up to 16 miles). I am planning to give myself about two weeks of light running before the race.

NYNY: How is running as part of Team NYNY along other NYNY staff members different than preparing and running as an individual?

Bryan: Running as part of the team has provided a sense of accountability and has inspired serious commitment. I want to try harder because I know my teammates are right there with me!

Jaimie: For me, my Team NYNY membership is uniquely meaningful in that I have only been in New York for a year. This membership symbolizes belongingness in my new home. Not only do I love running as part of Team NYNY, because it ultimately bolsters first-generation college students, but it also helps me feel supported and encouraged as a brand new New Yorker. I am certain I couldn’t do this without Team NYNY! My mile times would have been impacted by running alone and I would have stopped my long runs early without having the team to encourage me.

Jack: I am very honored to be a part of Team NYNY! I have worked at NYNY for seven months now, and I truly love the organization! I think that it is great for building camaraderie amongst the staff members participating.  I run regularly with my NYNY teammates and attribute my ability to complete the long training runs to having them by my side.  I know that I would have a difficult time running for three hours by myself, but having someone to commiserate with during the process has actually made it quite fun!  

NYNY: Who or what would you be thinking about once you cross the finish line?

Jaimie: I will have two things on my mind: first, I’ll be thinking about the Fellows and how proud I am to be a part of NYNY! Second, I’ll be thinking about the three words that have motivated me to train every day, culminating in running this race: “Finishing is winning.”

Jack: This is where I would love to say something really inspiring or motivational, but knowing myself, I will almost certainly be thinking about the huge amount of food I plan to eat!

Bryan: I’ll be thinking of what I should have for dinner!

NYNY: You have a fundraising goal of 10,000 each. The money will benefit the NYNY Programs and Fellows. How can our readers support Team NYNY?

Jack: Readers can support Team NYNY by visiting our fundraising page and making a donation of any amount: http://www.crowdrise.com/NewYorkNeedsYouNYC2013/fundraiser/teamNYNY.  I’ve been encouraging people close to me to make a symbolic donation of $26, one dollar for each mile.  Readers can also support the team by sharing the fundraising link with their friends and family and by sharing it on social media. We also look forward to the support of the NYNY family during the race, so if readers are able, we would love to see them along the course for some encouragement when we need it most!

Jaimie: Come out for race day! Gather by borough and let us know where you’ll be! We’ll be sure to high five you on our journey! Trust me, seeing your faces will make all of the difference.

Kim: There are many ways to support Team NYNY!

Make a Donation on our Crowdrise Page – http://www.crowdrise.com/NewYorkNeedsYouNYC2013/fundraiser/newyorkneedsyou

Attend the Post-Marathon Fundraiser – http://www.newyorkneedsyou.org/help/nyc-marathon

Support one of our Fellows – https://www.newyorkneedsyou.org/donate

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Fellow Spotlight: 2013 Fellow Adam

For prospective NYNY Fellows, it is invaluable to have the opportunity to learn about the NYNY Program from our current and alumni Fellows. Hearing about their experiences and accomplishments firsthand is irreplaceable! Then, what better way to help identify new recruits for the upcoming 2014 Fellow class than sending out current Fellows to speak about the program on their respective campuses and boroughs? Enter the Fellow Ambassadors! Given the size of the CUNY system, the Fellow Ambassadors are paramount to Fellow recruitment success. Fellow Ambassadors actively support the NYNY program and grow our community. Approximately 30 NYNY Fellow Ambassadors (FAs) from the 2012 and 2013 classes will join in recruiting the next Fellow Class. The Fellow Ambassador program at New York Needs You is an opportunity for Fellows to demonstrate additional leadership and community outreach skills. FAs use social media and organize campus events to promote NYNY and help prospective Fellows complete their applications. FAs’ recruiting efforts are tracked through a points system. All FAs are recognized for their contributions and special awards are given to those who show extraordinary effort. Meet 2013 Fellow Adam, one of our amazing Fellow Ambassadors! Adam is a sophomore at York College majoring in Psychology. He enjoys running, swimming, hiking, biking, reading, and writing.

NYNY: Adam, please describe the Fellow Ambassador role. Adam: My role is to inform York College freshmen students about the NYNY Program, and help them through the process of applying and interviewing.

NYNY: Why did you become a Fellow Ambassador? Adam: I have struggled as a student who grew up outside of the United States and had no idea about how colleges operate in America. The experience that I have been through and the people who have helped me, and still help me, inspire me to help other students to have a better college experience than mine. When I saw a New York Needs You poster on campus, it really caught my attention. I was thinking that I will always be there for New York. New York is home now to me. I immediately thought of applying to the NYNY Program. Then I met Tracy, a 2012 NYNY Fellow and a Fellow Ambassador who helped me a lot. She explained the application process, and was always checking on me to see how I was doing until I got accepted into the Program. Now both of us are Fellow Ambassadors!

NYNY: How does NYNY support you in your role as a Fellow Ambassador? Adam: Ashley (Training Coordinator) and Jaimie (Fellows Program Training Manager) are always there for me. They provide me with materials and all the necessary information to best represent NYNY.

NYNY: What is your greatest accomplishment as a Fellow Ambassador? Adam: I hosted two workshops during the summer, while we had the New Student Orientation at York College. We had more than 500 freshmen attend orientation. I was happy to tell first-year students about NYNY.

NYNY: What is your favorite part about being a Fellow Ambassador? What about the biggest challenged that you faced? Adam: I haven’t had any challenges yet. My favorite part is the pride of representing NYNY, and being an integral part of the NYNY family. I love being able to speak on behalf of NYNY.

NYNY: What recruiting methods do you use and recommend? Adam: We are planning to host one workshop at least once a month from now until February. I will also work with Tracy to try to meet every applicant in person, and help them with the whole process.

NYNY: What advice do you have for future Fellow Ambassadors? Adam: It is a great experience. Make the most out of it.

NYNY: What would you like to share with prospective Fellows? Adam: Stay in touch with NYNY staff while working on your application; they are very helpful!   I always wanted to have a mentor, improve my resume, and expand my network. NYNY provided me with all of this and even more. I am learning so many new skills there that I do not think I would have been able to learn anywhere else.

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Fellow Spotlight: 2012 Fellow Angelica

2012 Fellow Angelica is a junior at Columbia University, and plans to major in English and Comparative Literature. She transferred to Columbia earlier this year from Kingsborough Community College. Angelica spoke with us about her transfer experience and shared some advice for Fellows who are or will be transferring.

                    NYNY: How much time do you think students should give themselves in order to prepare for and follow through with the transfer process?

Angelica: The amount of time one spends on completing their transfer applications is unbelievable. I would suggest that students begin preparing for the transfer process as soon as possible, particularly community college students. Building up your extracurricular activities and finding professors to write you a glowing recommendation letter are almost just as valuable as the essay.

NYNY: What was the most difficult part of the transfer process? What took the most time?

Angelica: The hardest part of the transfer process is without a doubt writing the essay. No matter what kind of writer you might be, this should be the most time-consuming part of the process. Perfecting the essay is essential ‒ after all, in many cases it is your first and only introduction to admissions officers.

NYNY: Who on campus helped you with your transfer process? Did any of these people have relationships with the transfer schools you were interested in?

Angelica: The honors department on campus was extremely instrumental in my transfer process. It was because of them that I decided to apply to Columbia. If your school has an honors department, I would suggest meeting with someone in the office because they often have relationships with recruiters at other schools.

NYNY: How did you decide which schools you would apply to?

Angelica: I made a conscious decision to only apply to schools that I knew would have the best English and Art programs on the East Coast. Prior to beginning my applications, I did extensive research on the schools that I was interested in. This was also a great help when it came to writing my transfer essays.

NYNY: How did NYNY and your Mentor Coach support you during the transfer process?

Angelica: My mentor coach was amazing throughout the entire transfer process. She helped me edit my essays, visited schools with me and was just a great person to vent to when I grew frustrated. 

NYNY: Is there anything else you’d like to share about the transfer process?

Angelica: The best advice that I can give anyone during this process is to follow your heart because you’re the only one who knows what’s best for you. I didn’t have much of an open mind throughout the process and although I didn’t end up where I thought I would and I couldn’t be happier.

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Fellow Spotlight: 2013 Fellow Alixandra

2013 Fellow Alixandra is a junior at the College of Staten Island, studying English with a concentration in Writing. She is an honors student, and also works while attending school. We asked Alixandra to share her experience on balancing school, work and NYNY, while maintaining a healthy social life.

NYNY: Please introduce yourself to our readers!

Alixandra: Hi! My name is Alixandra and I am currently studying English with a concentration in Writing at the College of Staten Island.  I love to read and write, so this semester I joined a club on campus called A Reason to Write. The club encourages reading and writing of all forms and provides a place to discuss literature and receive feedback on personal writing projects. I am also a member of the college’s chapter of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. This is a group of high-achieving students who obtained a GPA of 3.4 or more and ranked in the top 10% of their class in their freshman or sophomore years. The group is dedicated to building leadership skills and giving back to the community through various service projects.

NYNY: Why NYNY?

Alixandra: I chose to apply to NYNY because I know how important it is to make professional connections and have a mentor. Having the opportunity to network with young professionals and receive a personal mentor appealed to me because it was what I lacked most. I have always been goal-oriented and driven, but lacked the guidance of a successful professional who could push me to the next step.  I also loved the idea of being surrounded by other driven individuals traveling the same road as myself.

NYNY: Have the workshops met your expectations? What do you like best about being a NYNY Fellow?

Alixandra: The workshops thus far have exceeded my expectations. I have learned so much more than I expected to learn about the professional world and all the intricate details that must be tended to in order to become successful. The positive energy is just overwhelming and we achieve so much in such a short amount of time. My favorite part of being a NYNY fellow is being able to connect with students who are just like me. Even though we all have our own goals, we are all so invested in helping each other succeed too.

NYNY: You are an honors student. Please tell us more about the honors program at your school and about the classes that you are taking.

Alixandra: I am a part of a selective undergraduate honors program at my college known as the Verrazano School. This program provides academic support and planning, while ensuring students are well prepared for graduate programs and professional success. It has really changed my college experience in so many ways. When I was accepted into the program I gained a family on campus that has pushed and challenged me to do so much more than just attend class and receive my undergraduate degree. We are expected to take honors courses that are designed to challenge high-achieving students and connect us with full-time faculty members on campus. As a Verrazano student, I am required to participate in community service activities and complete a capstone research project prior to graduation. The program provides students with career-building workshops, access to various extracurricular events and priority registration for classes. This program has made me a better student and an even better person.

NYNY: You’re a student, but you also have a very demanding work schedule. Tell us about your current work commitment.

Alixandra: I am currently employed by Toys “R” Us/Babies “R” Us in Staten Island. I commute about 45 minutes each way and work anywhere from 20-35 hours per week. At this time I am trained in every department within the store and my role changes on a daily basis. Going to school full-time and working a demanding schedule can be hectic at times, but it is necessary in order for me to maintain my independence.

NYNY: How do you manage to stay organized?

Alixandra: I carry an organizer and a notepad everywhere to keep track of all of my commitments. By organizing my time so strictly, I am able to balance many things without making conflicting plans by accident. Because my work schedule varies every week, I find planning out exactly when I will study or work on an assignment keeps me from procrastinating, allowing me to continue to achieve good grades each semester. One of the most useful things about being so organized is that I typically get enough rest, which most college students do not. Without enough sleep, I would not be able to focus on my studies or be an effective employee at work.

NYNY: Since you have so much going on, how do you find time to relax and socialize?

Alixandra: Managing current responsibilities and finding time for yourself can be difficult, but finding a balance is very important to me. By planning out each week I am able to balance my commitments and still find time to do things that I enjoy. I love spending time with my family, friends and boyfriend. Typically my plans involve food because I love to cook and try new things, but I also like to exercise, watch sports, and go to concerts and the movies. If I did not make time to just have fun and live in the moment, I would not be happy.

NYNY: Do you have any advice for students who are balancing school, a demanding work schedule and want to have a normal social life?

Alixandra: Anyone who has to balance many commitments must learn how to prioritize. Knowing what is most important to you is easy to figure out, but really implementing a schedule and sticking to it is key. School has always been my first priority because it is the key to my future. I always make sure I schedule enough time to stay on top of all of my assignments, and study for my exams. Working is my next priority; I must work enough to pay my bills and maintain my independence. I work extra hours when I can to save money for the times I need to ask for extra time off during hectic weeks at school or a day out with family and friends. Although school and work always come first, I always make time to have a little fun or relax.

NYNY: Tell us about your future plans.

Alixandra: After completing my undergraduate degree, I hope to attend graduate school to study physical therapy. I was often torn between becoming a teacher and entering the medical field, and physical therapy brings the good qualities of each field into a single career. It is a diverse field with endless opportunities and everlasting satisfaction. After practicing under other physical therapists for some time, I hope to open my own successful practice.

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Fellow Spotlight: 2013 Fellow Paramita

2013 NYNY Fellow Paramita is a junior at Barnard College, studying Psychology and Education. She is a New Yorker who loves photography, exploring the city with her friends, cooking and trying out new foods. We asked Paramita to recommend a few budget-friendly activities and destinations in the city for our Fellows and Mentor Coaches. NYNY: Paramita, you were born and raised in New York City. Do you think that growing up in New York City is different from growing up anywhere else? Paramita: I absolutely love being a native New Yorker. I guess non-New Yorkers see the city as intimidating, but once you spend twenty years here, you see how small it really is. Growing up in Queens has exposed me to so many wonderful people of different backgrounds. I have been fortunate enough to meet many loving, caring people in my life and I have been able to embrace my roots as a Bengali American while sharing my culture with others. I think New York City is one of the most accepting places and I am grateful for it.

NYNY: If you had to describe New York City in 3 words, which words would you use? Paramita: Spontaneous, hardworking, vibrant

NYNY: What are some of your favorite places in New York City?

Paramita:

1. Woodside, Queens (my home and best place for Mexican and Ecuadorian food) 2. Jackson Heights, Queens (best place for Indian food) 3. Columbia University Campus 

NYNY: You chose to go to college in the city. Was location a decisive factor for you? Paramita: I chose to go to Barnard for many reasons. I believe that Barnard was the best fit for me. I loved the support it had for women and the sisterhood I felt as soon as I entered the gates. Barnard was also committed to supporting me financially, which I am so grateful for because not all the schools I applied to had the ability to do so. Overall, being at a women’s college under the Columbia University umbrella has allowed me to explore any and every extracurricular activity a person could dream of. I love the people on my campus because everyone is extraordinary and I love admiring every single person for their accomplishments. NYNY: Which borough do you think has the most hidden gems? Paramita: I think that Queens has the most hidden gems. Manhattan is nice, but for authentic cheap eats, Queens is definitely the place to go. You can go to Indian Taj in Jackson Heights and eat from an enormous dinner buffet for only $14! If you are in the mood for Korean Barbeque (so good!), you can get off at Flushing and walk to little Korea, where you will meet some of the friendliest and most humble people. The food comes in bigger portions and is much cheaper in Queens. Queens also has awesome museums, such as the New York Hall of Science. Lastly, if you want to go ice skating at ANY time of the year, you have to go to City Ice in Long Island City. (It is only $5 to skate if you have your own skates).

NYNY: New York is famous for its cultural life. How do you stay informed on what’s going on and what’s new in the city?

Paramita: I stay informed through various websites. I join the site’s listserv and get emails about all upcoming events. One is called www.ilovefreeconcerts.com. Another great site is www.studentrush.org.  They have an awesome program called the “will call” club, where you can reserve complimentary tickets for five dollars each. I have seen amazing shows through this service, such as Potted Potter and Fuerza Bruta. Over the summer, many of the summer parks will update their websites with free events, too.  

NYNY: What events and activities would you recommend to the NYNY Fellows and Mentor Coaches?

Paramita: Here is a really neat chart that I created for our readers:

NYNY: This is great! Any advice specifically for the museum lovers? Paramita: There are so many museums. Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art! For an extensive museum list, visit http://www.nycgo.com/articles/free-nyc-museums.

NYNY: What are your top 3 year-round activities? Paramita:

1. Go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art with a friend  2. Sit on the Lowe Steps (Columbia University campus)  3. Eat nachos at Amsterdam Café

[newyorkneedsyou]

New York Needs You Runs the NYC Marathon!

More than five years ago, Robert Reffkin, New York Needs You Founder and Board Chair, began a mission of running 50 marathons, one in each state, with the goal of raising $1 million for NYNY and the other nonprofits that helped him achieve success. The 2013 ING Roadrunners NYC marathon on Nov. 3rd will be Robert’s 50th and final marathon!

To help him reach the finish line, a number of staff members and volunteers from NYNY and NJNY, as well as supporters, have formed Team NYNY and will join Robert in running the NYC Marathon, in addition to raising $10,000 each: Jack Corcoran, Rafique Decastro, Bryan Garcia, Kimberly Harris, Christopher Hollyday, Kwame Jackson, PJ Kim, Jaimie Krause, Joe Matta, Keith Putnam-Delaney, Josh Weissenstein.

Please join the New York Needs You community and Team NYNY in supporting Robert in his 50th marathon!

Press/News

The ING New York City Marathon 50 States, 50 Marathons, $1 Million On December 1, 2007, Robert Reffkin ran the Death Valley Marathon in California. It was his first step toward completing an ambitious project: running 50 marathons in 50 states. Reffkin named his project “Running to Support Young Dreams,” and through it he aims to raise $1 million for youth education and enrichment programs. Read more > Epoch Times Robert Reffkin, Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit June 29, 2013 A secure job on Wall St. wasn’t enough for Robert Reffkin—he was too much of an entrepreneur. In September last year Reffkin took a leap of faith and left Goldman Sachs to build his own startup company. Read more >

Q By Equinox My Healthy: Entrepreneur Robert Reffkin June 27, 2013 The tech startup founder and seasoned marathoner shares his healthy hit list. Read more > InsideHook Robert Reffkin: Man of the Month, March 2013 March 2013 As a Berkeley kid raised by a single mom, Robert Reffkin was known as DJ Zahav, the Golden Hebrew. Now he’s one of New York’s leading philanthropists and hottest startup players, angling to change the real estate market forever. Introducing InsideHook’s inaugural Man of the Month. Read more >

Northfield News One in a Million January 08, 2011 Robert Reffkin knows what has helped make him the man he is today. A man who at just 31 years old, leads a hectic but successful life working investments on Wall Street. Sounds like the stereotypical type-A individual who drove himself to the top on his very own, but it's not. Read more >

Muckety Goldman Sachs VP Runs for the Money November 10, 2009 Robert L. Reffkin, a vice president in the private equity division of Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., would seem to be an investor who’s in for the long haul. Since December 2007, Reffkin, 30, has run 26 marathons in 26 different states in an effort to raise funds for groups that help young people. Read more >

The Wall Street Journal Running for a Cause November 09,2009 Robert Reffkin rarely slows down. The 30-year-old New Yorker, a vice president in Goldman Sachs Group Inc.'s private equity arm, has run a marathon a month for the past two years and is halfway through his goal of hitting one marathon in every state. Read more >

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Fellows Program Spotlight: the 2014 NYNY Fellows Application

The NYNY Fellows Program is a highly-selective program for high-achieving, low-income, first-generation college students. Through holistic mentorship and a structured career development curriculum, the Fellows Program is designed to foster continuous college enrollment, internships and job offers upon graduation from four-year institutions. The 2014 NYNY Fellows Application opened on August 28th.

Today we are speaking with LaShawnda Brooks, NYNY Fellow Support Coordinator. LaShawnda provides Fellows with academic and transfer support and works on case management, recruitment, curriculum, as well as on the Fellows Application as a staff lead. She is sharing with our readers her expert knowledge of the application platform and process, as well as helpful tips and recommendations for the applicants.

NYNY: What is NYNY looking for in prospective NYNY Fellows?

LaShawnda: NYNY is looking for highly ambitious, high-achieving, first-generation, low-income college students seeking career development opportunities to harness their potential. We are looking for students that are open-minded, willing to learn, exhibit leadership potential and community involvement and are interested in cultivating a professional mentoring relationship. In addition, we are looking for students that are willing to seek resources to help their career trajectory. Our applicants are incredibly ambitious and high-achieving!

NYNY: Who is eligible to apply?

LaShawnda: First-generation, low-income CUNY freshmen that are US citizens or permanent residents. Applicants should meet the criteria outlined on our website. They must also be able to attend our Saturday workshops in accessible NYC locations. 

It is important to note that NYNY defines first-generation students as students whose parents have not received a bachelor’s or higher degree (in the US or in another country). We look for applicants who are pursuing their first bachelor’s degree and lack significant professional experience .

NYNY: Please tell our readers about the online application and the application platform.

LaShawnda: Students can go to the NYNY website, and click on the 2014 application tab. There, they are able to start the application. Our online application was designed so that it could be completed in multiple sittings. Wizehive, our application platform, saves the data in your application as long as you choose the "save draft" option. Applicants submit their recommendations through the same portal. Students are able to enter in the recommender’s info and Wizehive will contact the recommender via email to submit an electronic recommendation. It’s pretty cool!

NYNY: Is there a paper application?

LaShawnda: No, there isn’t a paper application. NYNY accepts only the online application. This ensures that nothing is lost in the mail.

NYNY: How do students begin the application process?

LaShawnda: Students begin the application process by going to www.newyorkneedsyou.org. On our home page there is a section called “apply”. Please click on the tab and follow the instructions to start your application.

NYNY: The application closes on Feb. 20, 2014. When should applicants start filling out the application? How much time would you recommend spending on the application?

LaShawnda: I think it’s always best to give yourself enough time to ensure success. I would advise that students start early and get familiar with the application. Starting early gives you enough time to reach out to advisors and professors, meet with the writing center staff, and collect all of your transcripts.

I would recommend that students spend enough time working on the application and make sure that the application speaks to their abilities, accomplishments, drive and reasons for wanting to join the program. There is not a set amount of hours to make sure that the application is perfect, however, it requires sufficient effort and time.

NYNY: So the applicants don’t need to complete the entire application in one sitting?

LaShawnda: Great question! It is encouraged that applicants take their time on the application. Wizehive saves the application as a draft (with the “save draft” button). This way, students can exit out of the application while their information is saved. We recommend that applicants leave enough time to go back to the application and edit it as they see fit. 

NYNY: What about the essay portion of the application? Any tips?

LaShawnda: It would be best for students to spend time at their writing centers and reach out to professors and advisers for feedback. In addition, I will recommend that applicants reach out to the NYNY Fellow Ambassadors for feedback. We also recommend that students write their essays in a word processor before submitting so they can check for errors and proofread. 

While writing your essays, be true to yourself and proofread your work! It is okay if you are unsure of your future plans. The key is to research NYNY and see how the opportunities that we offer align to your career goals. Also make sure that you answer the  essay question while being mindful of our 250 word limit.

NYNY: Recommendations are an important part of the application. Who should the applicants ask for a recommendation?

LaShawnda: Another great question! Applicants should ask for a recommendation someone that knows them incredibly well (as long as they are not a friend or a family member), is able to highlight their accomplishments, and everything that makes them stand out. The “je ne sais quoi”, if you know what I mean. Guidance counselors, student support advocates, professors, or work supervisors are possible options. 

NYNY: What GPA do candidates need in order to be competitive for admission in the Fellows Program?

LaShawnda: The majority of our Fellows hold a 3.6 GPA. However, last year accepted GPAs ranged from 3.0 to 4.0. I want to point out that NYNY looks at a number of factors when reviewing the applications. The GPA is one of these factors, but it is not the only one.

NYNY: Do you recommend that applicants submit additional information and/or documents? Can they send supplementary materials for review and if yes how?

LaShawnda: We have a section in our application where students can upload additional documents. If an applicant has a unique situation, such as a low GPA because of personal issues, it is best to utilize the optional essay. We are not accepting any supplemental information via mail or fax.

NYNY: If prospective Fellows have questions about the application who should they contact?

LaShawnda: If prospective Fellows have questions about the application they can reach out to their CUNY liaisons (often a staff member in your scholarship office, career center, or academic support program), the NYNY Fellow Ambassadors, as well as to the NYNY Programs staff. They can do so by emailing [email protected] or calling 212-571-0202.  

We recommend that applicants fill out the Fellowship Interest Form. NYNY is frequently at orientation events and career fairs. Many Fellow Ambassadors hold their own recruitment events. Filling out our Fellowship Interest Form is a good way of finding out when we will be on your campus.

NYNY: Any general application tips?

LaShawnda: I would advise that applicants read their essays out loud. It ensures that the flow is great, and is an effective way to catch errors. I would also say that it pays off to spend enough time to complete the essays. The application opens early, so spend sufficient time on the application and take advantage of the available resources. It is also important to plan ahead and leave time to get your high school transcript and recommendation letters. Sometimes there can be unexpected situations, and you want to make sure that you allow enough time to submit your application without being rushed. Talk to your recommenders early!

NYNY: What is your favorite part of the application process?

LaShawnda: Surprisingly, I love hearing from applicants as they ask questions! I actually keep a wall of some of the questions that students ask. I want to make sure that our process is as clear as possible and it gives me the opportunity to get to know them. I also love interview day; it’s great to see how excited the finalists are!

NYNY: What would you like to tell the prospective NYNY Fellows who have started their applications or are thinking about applying to the NYNY Fellows Program this year?

LaShawnda: Just do it. Too often students talk themselves out of taking opportunities. The NYNY Program is about connecting ambition to opportunities, and this starts with our application. Complete the application, and best of luck!

  Would you like to be a 2014 NYNY Fellow? Apply now! http://www.newyorkneedsyou.org/apply/fellows-program-application

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Fellows Program Spotlight: 2012 Fellow - Mentor Coach Pair Josh and Gil

NYNY's flagship program, the Fellows Program is an intensive two-year mentoring and training program where Fellows are matched one-on-one with highly-accomplished professional Mentor Coaches dedicated to their personal and professional growth. 

Today 2012 Mentor Coach Gilbertson Cuffy and 2012 Fellow Joshua are discussing their NYNY experience, the Fellow-Mentor Coach matching process, and their mentoring relationship.

NYNY: Please introduce yourselves to our readers: 

Josh: I am a rising junior at New York University. I am majoring in Applied Psychology with a minor in Business. I would describe myself as very outgoing and charismatic. I love hanging out with friends. I love to laugh, enjoy entertaining others, and truly enjoy being the center of attention. I am a collegiate baseball athlete and I am very competitive. 

Gil: I am a graduate of the University of Miami, BBA Marketing, and Nova Southeastern University, MBA. Currently I am an Innovation Brand Manager for Finish Dishwashing Detergents at Reckitt Benckiser, which allows me to work on new product launches for Finish across Europe and North America. In my spare time I like to work on my blog www.urbansocialguide.com (which is really just a front for me to feel obligated to visit different lounges and restaurants) where I comment on my experiences with food, culture and then offer advice on being a young professional in the concrete jungle. 

NYNY: How did you become involved with NYNY? 

Josh: I first heard about NYNY as a freshman at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. A mentor of my older brother by the name of Ken Merin told me about the Program and I decided to apply.

Gil: A good friend from undergrad (University of Miami), Chris Polanco, was a Mentor Coach and invited me to attend a workshop. I had a chance to meet the Fellows, the Mentor Coaches and the staff and I was hooked. I knew right away that I needed to be a part of the life changing impact that NYNY has in deserving students’ lives. 

NYNY: Did you expect that you would be matched as a Fellow-Mentor Coach pair? Were you nervous before the matching ceremony? 

Gil: Fortunately NYNY does a good job of allowing the Fellows to get to know the Mentor Coaches in the workshops prior to matching date. I think during one of those workshops Josh and I really connected so I think I was pretty sure that in the end we would be paired up. When matching ceremony came I guess I wasn’t nervous because I knew that Josh was the right fit. 

Josh: I did expect and was hopeful that Gil would be my Mentor Coach. I wasn't very nervous, rather anxious to see whether or not he would be. Although I am sure that any other Mentor Coach I would have been paired up with would have been great, Gil was my number one choice and my mind was set on having him as my Mentor Coach.

NYNY: Were you able to meet and talk to many Mentor Coaches and Fellows before you were matched? What was your strategy?

Josh: I did speak to several Mentor Coaches before I met with Gil. Gil was actually the last Mentor Coach I had spoken to before our choices had to be made. My strategy was to find someone whose personality was similar to mine. I wanted someone who had similar interests as me and whose personality gelled well with mine. Gil was the perfect fit. He’s a star under pressure and is competitive, but is not a sore loser. He loves to entertain. He’s very outgoing and just a complete Renaissance man. I am not too sure if there could ever be a Fellow-Mentor Coach pair as perfect as me and Gil! I think the most important think to look for in a Mentor Coach is a genuine connection. Having the same industry of interest may not necessarily matter too much, or rather should not be the only reason why you choose a particular Mentor Coach.

Gil: NYNY has a great matching process where you are able to meet the Fellows during the workshops before you get matched. During that time I was able to meet many Fellows, exchanged contacts with a few and began to build a connection. Though you will only get matched with one person the Fellows are able to have ongoing communication and seek advice from all Mentor Coaches so as a result I still maintain communication with several Fellows and they continue to update me on their progress. 

NYNY: Josh, what were you looking for in a Mentor Coach? 

Josh: I was looking for someone who I thought I could connect with and could talk to, not simply somebody I saw as a great source for networking and someone who could help further my career. I knew that all Mentor Coaches would be willing to help each Fellow in that sense.

NYNY: Gil, what were you looking for in a Fellow?

Gil: I was looking for a Fellow who had drive. I think NYNY can teach you how to interview well, what a great resume and cover letter combination looks like and all about mastering the perfect elevator pitch, all of these things are great tools in your tool kit and will truly help create opportunities for Fellows, but the tool most important to me is more innate and that is the ability to be a go getter. I needed a Fellow who had a hunger to want to succeed despite any obstacles that came their way because I knew that they would be the best suited to actually use the tools NYNY will give them to truly become successful. 

NYNY: The 2013 Class’ Matching Ceremony will be on September 7th. Do you want to share anything with the 2013 Fellows and Mentor Coaches who still don’t know who they will be working with for the next two years and might be a little bit anxious?

Gil: Stop worrying. The goal is not to have the perfect match, the goal is to make the biggest impact with the match that you get. Remember that the mentorship relationship is reciprocal so expect to get out of it as much as you put in and you will realize in short time that this is exactly what happens.   

Josh: I’d say speak to as many people as possible, and try and make sure you remember faces. Try to get to know each Fellow and Mentor Coach as much as possible within the time allowed. Build a connection.

NYNY: How did your mentoring relationship develop?

Gil: It’s an everyday process, as we continue to get to know each other and as we continue to reveal more about ourselves, the mentorship relationship gets stronger. 

Josh: I think our relationship grew the most when I began the transfer application process to NYU. Gil was very helpful, and wasn’t afraid to push me and stay on top of me. He definitely didn’t baby me but met me half way. We have met up a number of times outside of workshops which has also allowed us to better understand each other and maintain our connection.

NYNY: Gil, what’s an issue that you didn't initially feel you had the resources/ability to help your Fellow overcome, but were able to?  How did you do it?  

Gil: Being that I was not from NYC originally I was not familiar with the college transfer process from a community college to a 4-year school here within New York. Fortunately NYNY was very familiar with this process and created avenues for me to learn allowing me to help Josh in this process; including a speakers panel exactly on this topic. In the end we were both able to learn the process, worked together through the application process and he was successfully admitted into NYU and is starting there this fall!

NYNY: What areas of improvement and strength did you identify as you began your mentoring relationship?

Gil: I wanted to make sure that I held true to being very responsive to Josh’s requests and needs. If he gave me something to review, i.e. resume, or applications I wanted to make sure that I gave him my feedback right away. There are many distractions that can happen from work to home and I just wanted to make sure that I prioritized Josh’s needs amongst those things. I genuinely like people and I genuinely like Josh. It is not a chore to do something for someone when you actually like the person.

Josh: I think my area of strength is my ambition and relentlessness. I could still improve on the way I carry myself professionally.

NYNY: What did you learn about your communication style from your mentoring experience? 

Gil: I have learned that I am very direct which I think is helping me even with my interactions with subordinates or cross functional partners at work. I am referring to the ability to clearly communicate tasks that need to be completed and accomplishing this without sounding like a dictator. NYNY really helps provide a good proving ground for my own work life.  

Josh: I've learned how to improve my body language in a professional setting as well as the way I speak.

NYNY: What did you find out you had in common?

Gil: We are both characters (if you've ever seen Josh and I do a skit you will know what I mean), who dream very big and the word “no” is only a temporary setback. I think Josh has a drive that is very similar to my own and because of that I know he will go far. 

Josh: Our personalities are very similar. We are outgoing, entertainers, enjoy being in the spotlight, improvise under pressure, and we love sports. Our favorite basketball team is the Miami Heat, and we both live in Harlem. We literally live at a 3-5 minute walking distance away from each other.

NYNY: What is your favorite part about participating in the NYNY Fellows Program?

Gil: I think it is the collective experience of working with Josh, with the other Fellows, with great Mentor Coaches and great staff.

Josh: My favorite part about being a NYNY Fellow is being around other ambitious young adults who are striving for a bright future. I also truly appreciate having someone like Gil that I can reach out to for help while in the process of realizing my college and career potential.

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Research Spotlight: 2011 Fellow Nazary

Today we are interviewing 2011 NYNY Fellow Nazary, a young scientist who had the opportunity to present his research at the Young Researchers in Life Sciences Conference in Paris, France.

NYNY: Hi Nazary, please introduce yourself to our readers.

Nazary: I am a recent graduate of Pace University with a Bachelors of Science in Biochemistry. I’m looking into doing an MD/PhD program with a focus on the molecular mechanism behind infectious disease, so for the moment my biggest hobby is studying for the MCATs. I was Editor-in-Chief of the school newspaper at Pace my senior year as well as President of the Chemistry Club. I enjoy travelling, reading and I have a large affinity for postcards.

NYNY: What have you been up to this summer? 

Nazary: This summer I did a short-term research program called STEP-UP at Massachusetts General Hospital. The program is funded by the National Institute for Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases one of the 27 institute of the NIH and was coordinated by the American Physiological Society. I worked in the lab of Dr. Vidal Melo studying animal models of lung damage that mimicked the kinds of damage a person would receive during mechanical ventilation using computer modeling. 

NYNY: How does this  experience tie into your long-term career goals? 

Nazary: This summer experience was a great way to dip my toes into biomedical research and see how research is done at a large hospital. It is definitely something I want to keep doing as I enjoyed it quite a lot even if the physiology of lungs isn’t my long-term research focus. In 5 years I see myself in graduate school; in 10 years I will be doing a residency.

NYNY: In May 2012 you attended the Young Researchers in Life Science Conference at Paris Diderot University.Tell us more about this trip.

Nazary: As I’ve come away from the trip I’ve reflected a lot on it. My trip was only 5 days but during that time I learned a lot about myself, my personal network and how lucky I am to be a New York Needs You Fellow. This trip was a lot of firsts. It’s the first time I’ve flown by myself. It’s the first time I’ve flown across the Atlantic (since immigrating to America at age 6). It’s the first time I was in Paris, in France. It’s the first time I won an award at an international conference. In short, everything was fresh. This gave the trip a palpable energy that really kept me moving. At one point I remember going down a side street and realizing that not a single person had any idea where I was. In our interconnected world it’s a strange feeling – but a liberating one.

NYNY: Tell us about the conference.

Nazary: It was a three-day conference where students presented their scientific studies. The days were full of interesting oral presentations and poster sessions. I was fortunate to be able to present on the first day and garnered a lot of interest in my project. I would love to recall a few fellow students’ research topics to share but then I’d feel like I’m doing a disservice to all the great scientists I’m forgetting. Suffice to say that even if half of these students get their own labs in the next decade I’d be confident in the European science scene.

NYNY: You presented your research results at the conference and won an award. How did you feel when you realized that you are a winner?

Nazary: I won second place in the poster competition of the conference for my research project "Investigating the Role of Vasodilator-Stimulated  Phosphoprotein (VASP) in Host-Cell Response to Cryptosporidium Parvum Infection." I looked into the human protein VASP (Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein) and its role in the infectious cycle of Cryptosporidium Parvum. Using immunofluorescent microscopy I was able to show the protein co-localizing with the parasite on the cell surface of the human cell line. This host-cell pathogen interaction site presents a novel therapeutic site for potential drug development. C. Parvum is a protozoan parasite that infects a lot of people in the developing world and has outbreaks in the US occasionally poisoning municipal water supplies. To win an award, especially at a conference attended by PhD seeking students and post-docs was beyond words. The victory was, and continues to be, important. It’s sometimes hard to realize when you’re doing important work, but attending a conference like this, you see a wide range of disciplines and more importantly you meet the people practicing them. You can feel their passion for their work. I may have never cared about astrobiology, but I met people that were devoting their lives to it. And it was nice to see them share an interest in my project. The support of other professionals is invaluable when one is first starting out.

NYNY: Any fun facts about the trip that you would like to share with our readers?

Nazary: My original reservations fell through, due to reasons that were never satisfactorily explained. I had to find a new hostel to sleep in every night of my stay. This meant a nice foray through the Paris metro with my entire luggage.

NYNY: Would you recommend Paris as a travel destination?

Nazary: Absolutely. Everyone was super polite – I even had a shop keeper apologize to me for not speaking English. The city has a different energy. No one ever seems to be in a hurry but they also don’t seem lethargic. It’s like everyone knows where they’re going and why.

NYNY: Please share a favorite memory from the trip.

Nazary: One of my hostels was next to the Eiffel Tower. I walked over to the Tower and was shocked by how beautiful it was. I took some pictures but I don’t think I’ve seen a picture or model that does it justice. It’s stunning and commands the skyline in ways I haven’t seen other structures do. I was reminded of pictures from history books of occupying troops marching through during the World Wars. It was a little shocking to think that less than a hundred years ago, entire armies marched through the same area that I was walking down. 

NYNY: What are some other Paris sites that made an impression on you?

Nazary: First, I visited the Notre Dame Cathedral. The cathedral is about to turn 850 years old, whereas I am 20. This building is exponentially older than me. It’s an idea that makes my head spin. This cathedral has seen wars, famines, plagues and revolutions. And it’s endured. It’s a testament to the French people and to the faith that they have. Next I visited the National Library of France. I was struck by how many people were here on a Tuesday afternoon. Every section was full of people, working. Most curious was that on the way out of the library there was a bookstore. The library had its own collection of prints that it produced. I think here is where I saw how much the book is celebrated as an art form in Paris. It’s hard not to admire. I also walked down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées towards the Arc de Triomphe. It was an overwhelming stretch of pavement that seemed to mix historic sites with modern fashions – seamlessly. It seemed like the avenue always existed. Like it was discovered this way and no one ever bothered to change it. I also passed through the square where the French Revolution set up their dreaded guillotine and giant public gardens. Finally I ended up at the Louvre, which was unfortunately closed. Nonetheless I was able to grab a great picture in front of the pyramid that is so renowned. 

NYNY: What did you learn from the trip?

Nazary: The trip taught me a lot about history. Not just the history of Paris or France, but the role history plays in all our lives. We can easily be blinded by what we’ve seen or experienced and not realize that people long before us had the same problems, and tried a lot of the same solutions. It’s the key component of a good research project – previous literature. It’s an ancient city trying to be modern and struggling with the infrastructure. But it does so knowingly. Paris was a city designed for people long before anyone thought about cars. It retains a lot of that intimacy. The trip also taught me a lot about moving forward and taking chances. This entire conference started because of a chance tweet. Someone at a website I follow spotlighted it and I submitted my registration fee within a week. I didn’t know how I would get there, I just knew I would. I recruited other people from my University (who ultimately dropped out) and started looking for opportunities to fund the trip. The student activities fund didn’t work out, the foreign travel fund didn’t work out, the conference grant didn’t work out, even the department funding for students didn’t work out. At a time when my school failed, when my family was asking me if maybe I should quit, I reached out to NYNY and my Mentor Coach Jay Gormley and help was provided. I couldn't have done this trip without the support of my Mentor Coach Jay and the NYNY Program. The tagline of NYNY is “Connecting ambition to opportunity” and I don’t think it was ever more apropos for me. I had this ambition. I wanted to take this trip. I wanted to showcase my work. I wanted to see Paris. And I got the opportunity through NYNY.

NYNY: This year you were personally invited by the organizers to go back and attend the 2013 Young Researchers in Life Sciences Conference! Congrats!

Nazary: Thank you. Yes, this year I got to return to the very same conference on a travel grant given to me by the organizers since they were impressed by my work last year.This year the conference took place at the National Graduate School of Chemistry in Paris. This trip involved a lot more socializing with the attendees as I did less sightseeing. However, I did get to see the Louvre, which was a treat!

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Internship Spotlight: 2012 Fellow Peneliope

2012 Fellow Peneliope is a rising junior at Baruch College, double majoring in Journalism and Management in Musical Enterprises. We asked this aspiring music journalist to tell us more about her exciting summer internship at Singersroom, an online music source reaching over 1 million consumers monthly with content on R&B and urban-pop culture including daily news, reviews, interviews, and videos.

NYNY: Peneliope, how does this internship fit with your career goals? 

Peneliope: Writing for Rappersroom/Singersroom is a great opportunity for an aspiring music journalist who likes to know what is happening in the hip-hop and R&B world. 

NYNY: Did the internship meet your expectations?

Peneliope: Yes, interning at Singersroom has definitely met my expectations thus far. My expectations were simply to write about hip-hop and R&B, and to learn more while doing so. And that’s exactly what I am doing! 

NYNY: What do you like most about the internship?

Peneliope: The amount of knowledge that I am acquiring. And it’s not only about writing; it’s about the music industry altogether. Interning for Singersroom is pretty awesome, it’s great to see how a site like that aggregates information and pushes out breaking news. 

NYNY: How did your Mentor Coach support you through the application process?

Peneliope: Honestly, as soon as I found the opportunity I applied on my own. But I was able to do that confidently because of all of Lindsey’s [Lindsey Nelsen, 2012 Mentor Coach] advice and help with mock interviews, job shadowing, and goal setting discussions. 

NYNY: How did the NYNY Workshops prepare you for the internship?

Peneliope: The NYNY Workshops prepared me for the internship by teaching me time management and goal setting techniques, as well as proper e-mail and phone etiquette. But being part of the NYNY family in itself has helped me greatly. This past year 2011 Fellow Terrance was my Opinions Editor. Because he was in NYNY as well I didn’t only go to him with questions about stories, I also met with him almost every week to discuss my internship search and different ways to find out about opportunities. 

NYNY: Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?

Peneliope: That depends on which path I take after obtaining my undergraduate degree. I’m really interested in earning my Master of Arts in Music Business from New York University, but I also have an interest in pursuing a career in Entertainment Law. Regardless of what happens I know one thing, I’ll be writing!

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Office Spotlight: 2013 NYNY Summer Interns

It’s the beginning of August and summer internships at New York Needs You are wrapping up. Have you ever wondered what interning at New York Needs You is like? We ask our six summer interns to reveal how they felt as part of the NYNY team, discuss their accomplishments and reflect on their professional experiences this summer. 

NYNY: What motivated you to intern at NYNY this summer?

Mallika Walia (Communications Intern): I am a rising sophomore at Barnard College and as a first-generation college student myself, I understand the truly unique challenges that first-generation college students face. I’ve often found myself wishing for the guidance and support that NYNY provides for its Fellows. This motivated me to become part of an organization that works to ease the challenges that students like me face.

Emily Behan (Development Intern): I have a BA in Economics and Latin American Studies from Furman University and I am currently pursuing a MS in Fundraising Management from Columbia University. A friend from Columbia encouraged me to apply. When I was offered the internship, I had a potential job offer on the table, but I decided to accept NYNY’s internship offer because it seemed like a better fit for me. Looking back, I definitely made the right choice.

Stephen Xavier Foglia (IT Intern): I am interested in developing as an IT professional. I applied to the NYNY Internship through the NPower Technology Service Corps Program. The NYNY internship stood out to me.

Ev Evnen (Strategic Partnerships Intern): I am currently a candidate for MPP/MBA at the Heller School for Social Policy. I strongly believe in increasing economic opportunity for historically oppressed groups. Opportunities are not currently distributed equally, and work that is done to ameliorate this is very important to me.

Jennifer Uhlmann (Programs Intern): I have a BA in Psychology and I just completed my MA in Mental Health Counseling from CUNY City College. The Programs department particularly interested me because it involved a lot of direct contact with the Fellows in addition to helping out with, and at, the workshops. I hoped I could implement improvements or identify areas for improvement, which I think is especially important in such a young organization.

Alison Wong (Strategic Partnerships Intern):  I am a rising junior at Macaulay Honors College,double majoring in Environmental Science and Political Science. I learned about the opportunity to intern at NYNY through the Watson Fellowship Program. I thought it was a great opportunity to work in the non-profit sector and I loved the work that NYNY did. I accepted the offer from NYNY because of the welcoming work environment I experienced during the interview process.

NYNY: What is your favorite part of the NYNY Internship?

Alison: Being able to have ownership of my own project. Also being able to work at an organization that is growing and thriving is inspiring and enlightening.

Emily: Everyone’s positive attitude in the office!

Mallika: Being part of such an energetic and passionate team, helping to make a difference in Fellows’ lives and the workshops! The Fellows are all such inspiring and enthusiastic people and in my short time at NYNY, I’ve already learned so much from them. It’s incredible to see how they flourish in the program and how they motivate each other to succeed.

Stephen: Being able to help everyone in the office by addressing any computer issues.

Ev: It has been a privilege to work with people who are so smart and so dedicated to the mission of NYNY.

Jennifer: It is quite difficult to identify a single favorite part of my internship, but I can say for the first time in my life I am doing valuable, important work, for an organization that has an amazing mission with people that are supportive, positive, and full of energy who have helped me thrive.  The combination of the work I am doing, who I am doing it for and who I am doing it with is a secret recipe that NYNY has mastered.  The entire experience from mundane tasks such as printing out signs for workshop lunches to being the point person for a 2012 workshop made my time at NYNY an overwhelmingly positive experience.

NYNY: How is this internship different than other internships that you have had?

Emily: I had real responsibilities and long-term projects.

Mallika: NYNY has shown me the direct fruits of my labor. At workshops I witness the transformation that I help to foster. It’s a very humbling experience and makes me want to remain part of the NYNY family for many years to come.

Ev: I think what is unique about working at NYNY is the opportunity to see an organization thoughtfully expanding.  I work on a number of fast-paced and interesting projects. There is a great combination of hard work and camaraderie in the office. I'm learning a lot, not just about NYNY's mission-based work, but also about how to bring an organization's work to scale.

NYNY: What did you learn this summer? How is this internship going to impact your future career choices?

Jennifer: As I reflect on my internship experience I learned a great deal about the logistical and organizational aspects involved in workshop prep, and keeping the line of communication open with the 200+ current and alumni Fellows.  In addition to the work I did inside the office I benefited immensely from the professional and career development curriculum presented at the workshops. I also learned to alter my perspective on what I want to do with my life, how I can use my strengths and skillsets in different professional settings, other than mental health counseling.

Mallika: I learned a lot about social media for nonprofits, web management and media editing. After interning at NYNY, I’ve become more interested in becoming a mentor and giving back to the community I come from. Maybe in the future, I’ll apply to be a Mentor Coach at NYNY! After working with the staff, I’ve learned so much about different career paths and the various ways there are to achieve success in my own intended field. I’ve learned not to be afraid to take risks and step outside of my professional comfort zone because the experience just may be the most rewarding yet!

Emily: I’ve not only learned technical skills that will help me market myself to future employers (working with Salesforce, doing market research and processing gifts and acknowledgement letters), but I’ve also learned more about the non-profit sector in general. This internship cemented my decision to pursue a career at a place like NYNY. 

Stephen: I gained a lot of knowledge. It was great to apply in the business environment what I have learned in the classroom. This internship helped me pave my pathway to my future studies in the IT field.

Alison: Firstly, I learned how a non-profit organization works. I also learned about how non-profits fundraise for money and how development and partnerships are extremely important to nonprofits. Secondly, I learned of the impact of the organization on each Fellow’s life. I am constantly asking myself what kind of work I want to do in the future. This experience has taught me a lot about where I could possibly go.

Ev: I've gained a lot experience through the GroupTie project. I've learned some of what product research, testing and launch takes. I've also gained a little experience with grant writing, which is something that interests me greatly. Finally, I worked on a literature review of the challenges of and interventions for first-generation and low-income college students.

NYNY: Share some of your extracurricular activities and interests.

Mallika: I am a dancer and on the Board of Columbia University’s premier Bollywood fusion dance team CU Dhoom and a member of a social justice and community service group called CU Sewa. I love intramural softball, singing, reading, and traveling.

Emily: I volunteer for the HALO Foundation. I love running. I also enjoy visiting the museums of New York.

Stephen: I am a DJ on the side and a member of a national fraternity, Alpha Phi Delta.

Alison: I do community service work with environmental organizations and enjoy photography and cooking. I am also a big fan of films.

Ev: I am an Assistant Coach for Brandeis Woman's Rugby, a member of the Heller Diversity Working Group, a member of the Brandeis Queer Graduates Group and a Heller Admissions Student Ambassador.

Jennifer: I love to play competitive volleyball in addition to watching baseball and football.  I also love to cook and bake healthy, yummy things.

NYNY: Thank you Alison, Emily, Ev, Jennifer, Mallika, and Stephen for the incredible work this summer. Keep in touch!

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Internship Spotlight: 2012 Fellow Moreen

Today we continue with our internship interview series. We are speaking to 2012 NYNY Fellow Moreen about her summer internship at the French Embassy in NYC and her work with the French Embassy’s Education Attaché on Dual Language Programs in NYC public schools.

NYNY: Could you describe the internship for us?

Moreen: I work with the French Embassy’s Education Attaché on Dual Language Programs in NYC public schools. I am primarily in charge of communications and outreach initiatives targeting the Haitian community in Queens and Brooklyn. I meet with leaders in the community, connect with community organizations, and conduct a lot of research on the population here in NYC. I also work with another intern on brochures, translate literature to Haitian Creole, and draft emails to send out to potential and current partners in the Haitian community. I also manage the French-English Dual Language Program’s Facebook page. It is a very interesting and a wonderful hands-on experience!

NYNY: How does this internship fit with your career goals? Why did you choose this internship?

Moreen: I am very interested in international relations and diplomacy with a strong focus on children and education. Since my internship combines all of that, I believe it is a good first step toward a career in that field. I honestly did not expect that I would land such an internship this summer so when I received the offer I was thrilled but very nervous because I knew it would be a very challenging position. At the same time I knew I was prepared for the challenge and accepted the position precisely because I knew that it would be challenging.

NYNY: What do you like most about the internship?

Moreen: The best part of this internship is having the opportunity to experience the ins and outs of establishing cross-cultural education partnerships and learning how to craft and carry out a discourse for a specific group. As an intern, I am invited to board meetings for the Dual Language Programs and I like the fact that my opinion is welcomed and valued when I participate in those meetings. Also, the fact that I am working with a community with which I share the same background makes this experience much more meaningful.

  NYNY: Would you recommend this internship to other NYNY Fellows? Who is this internship best suited for?

Moreen: I would definitely recommend it to other NYNY Fellows who are interested in education, community outreach and even urban planning/development, grant writing, etc.

NYNY: How did your Mentor Coach support you through the application process?          

Moreen: My mentor coach Michael Kramer was of tremendous help throughout my internship search process. He helped me with every cover letter I wrote and supported me through the process.

NYNY: How did the NYNY Workshops prepare you for the internship?

Moreen: To tell you the truth, I just applied what I learned from the NYNY workshops step by step and it worked out beautifully! I met the Education Attaché during a presentation on the program at my school. I went up to him, gave an elevator pitch, and then asked if his division was taking interns for the summer. Unfortunately, he said “not at the moment”. He asked me something about the Haitian community and I told him what I knew, still showing interest. Then he finally asked me if I would be interested in working with him this summer. I followed up with an email and then scheduled an informal interview to find out more about the project he had in mind for me. NYNY Workshops gave me that competitive edge and really boosted my confidence, which got me out of my comfort zone to secure this amazing opportunity!

NYNY: Did the internship meet your expectations?

Moreen: This internship is much more than what I expected it to be! I am learning so much every day and every conversation teaches me more about diplomacy and multicultural communications. It is far beyond what I had in mind for the summer!

NYNY: Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?

Moreen: 5-10 years from now I hope to start a career in international development either in western Africa or in the Caribbean but I look forward to working in other areas as well, such as the hospitality and tourism industry.

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Staff Spotlight: Bryan Garcia Completes the 2013 NYC Triathlon

Today we are speaking with NYNY Fellow Support Coordinator Bryan Garcia about his triumphant completion of the 2013 NYC Triathlon. The challenging Olympic distance race consisted of a 1500m swim in the Hudson River, a 40k bike ride along Manhattan’s West Side highway and a 10k run in Central Park.

NYNY: Congrats, Bryan! How does it feel to have completed the NYC triathlon?

Bryan: Thank you! It feels otherworldly!

NYNY: How did you prepare for the triathlon?

Bryan: I began training about 7 months ago, in January 2013. My friend who is a cross-country runner, marathoner, and triathlete provided a structured training plan that I followed as strictly as I could. I reorganized my schedule and managed my time in a way that provided space for me to swim, bike, and run several days a week.     

NYNY: What motivated you to compete in the triathlon?

Bryan: Completing a triathlon was always a personal goal of mine. I got involved with this wonderful charity that implements social change and educational projects in East Africa and decided to participate on their behalf!   

NYNY: Who supported you throughout the process?

Bryan: My friends and family (especially my NYNY family) provided amazing support throughout. 

NYNY: Describe the experience for our readers.

Bryan: This was the most challenging and rewarding day of my life.  There were several times when I wanted to give up but knew that giving up was not in my nature. I had made a commitment and gave all that I had to follow through on my commitment. The kindness of strangers coupled with the beautiful amount of support that I received from friends and family was humbling, inspirational, and heartwarming.    

NYNY: What was the hardest part?

Bryan: The swim! Hudson River water doesn’t taste great…

NYNY: Is there anything that you would have done differently?

Bryan: I would have done an open water swim and participated in a shorter distance triathlon first. My body was in shock for a brief moment in time!

NYNY: Do you have any advice for NYNY Fellows, Mentor Coaches and Staff that would like to compete in the triathlon next year?

Bryan: Do an open water swim before race day, don’t inspect the Hudson River water too much (as I did) the morning of the race, have fun, enjoy the views while biking/running, and just keep swimming, just keep swimming.

NYNY: Who should sign up for the triathlon?

Bryan: Anyone who wants to step out of their comfort zone, push themselves to their perceived limits, and challenge their mental strengths. Also, the energy and environment on race day is tremendous.You get to bike on the West Side Highway!

NYNY: Can you draw a comparison between preparing for the triathlon and preparing for an interview?

Bryan: Similar to interviewing, succeeding in a triathlon relies heavily on the preparation. Because of all the training and prep, I felt confident going in and embraced the challenge as an opportunity. From this viewpoint, you realize that a triathlon or an interview is an opportunity to grow, learn about yourself, and accomplish your goals!

NYNY: What is your next challenge?

Bryan: Eating a colossal Crumbs cupcake. All of this exercise has gotten me hungry!

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY Internship Spotlight: 2012 Fellow Zeeshan

Internships are an integral part of the NYNY Fellow experience. NYNY requires all Fellows to complete two internships during their time in the Program. Today we are meeting with 2012 NYNY Fellow Zeeshan, who is currently a rising senior at City College. A chemical engineering major and mathematics minor, Zeeshan has a strong interest in science. Excited about his summer internship at the chemical engineering lab of the CUNY Energy Institute, he shared with us interesting details about the internship and his daily work.

  NYNY: Zeeshan, why did you choose to intern at the CUNY Energy Institute?

Zeeshan: As a chemical engineering major, I was very excited about this opportunity. I have worked part-time in labs before and my professors noticed how hard I worked. They recommended me for a full time internship. My Mentor Coach Jose encouraged me to apply as well. He always encourages me to pursue bigger and better opportunities. I could not be happier with my choice of a summer internship!

NYNY: Could you describe the internship for us?

Zeeshan: I work with a research scientist who gives me a bunch of tasks and projects to complete for the day. I'm usually working by myself trying to complete the tasks and trouble shoot on my own, but once in a while I'll work with Ph.D. students and professors, helping them collect data, mix chemicals together, and manufacture batteries. I am currently working towards finding clean alternatives to pollution-generating fuels, focusing on developing an inexpensive and clean battery

NYNY: What do you like most about the internship?

Zeeshan: I love that this internship is very hands-on! Even though I am an intern, I work with sophisticated equipment, including a laser cutting machine and electronic microscopes, as well as several different chemicals, including potassium hydroxide and zinc manganese dioxide. In addition, I have access to vast resources including a focused research agenda that revolves around the development of a clean battery, as well as research supported by Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA E), Department of Energy (DOE), and The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

NYNY: Would you recommend this internship to other NYNY Fellows? Who is this internship best suited for?

Zeeshan: Yes. This hands-on combination of both physical and chemical sciences is ideal for people like me, who enjoy using theory to create something tangible.

NYNY: How did your Mentor Coach support you through the application process?

Zeeshan: Jose helped me break the application process down and get a better understanding of the questions and essays that were asked. He also conducted mock-interviews with me, which was very helpful.

NYNY: How did the NYNY Workshops prepare you for the internship?

Zeeshan: NYNY workshops prepared and taught me how to network with people in my field and how to build long lasting relationships with them.

NYNY: Did the internship meet your expectations?

Zeeshan: The internship is way more than what I expected, which is a great thing! I am learning more than I could have imagined. 

NYNY: Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?

Zeeshan: I see myself continuing to do research in the energy, environmental and the go-green fields. But it has also always been a dream for me to be involved in the media/television/hosting industry and to coordinate huge events. Hopefully, I can experience both.

[newyorkneedsyou]

NYNY closes the opportunity gap through its intensive college success and career development Fellowship program that enables high-potential, first-generation college students to realize their professional and personal ambitions. Visit www.newyorkneedsyou.org for more information.

[newyorkneedsyou]

#New York Needs You #newyorkneedsyou #NYNY #Fellows #Mentor Coaches #career development program #leadership