Currently: I am currently attending Fordham University's Advanced Standing Master's in Social Work program. I am a school Social Work intern at KIPP NYC schools while also working as a peer support specialist. As a Social Worker, my goal is to advocate for minorities and other underrepresented groups who lack the resources to do so.
"HEOP has granted me amazing opportunities and a quality education that I will cherish for a lifetime. Through its incredible support system, HEOP helped set me up for success. One of my most life-changing experiences was studying abroad in Dubai for five months, where I gained valuable insight into different cultures and ways of life. I am incredibly grateful for HEOP’s everlasting support and will always cherish the opportunities it has given me."
Carlos Gonzalez '25
Degree: B.A. in Social Work
Hometown: Bronx, NY
Currently: I am currently pursuing my Master of Social Work at Siena University while completing my field placement at Trinity Alliance of the Capitol Region. My focus is on advancing equity in underrepresented communities and developing intake processes and administrative systems to ensure efficient and effective operations.
"HEOP at Siena was more than just an academic support system; it was a family. The mentorship and support I received gave me the confidence to pursue graduate studies and continue breaking barriers in my field."
Finesse Johnson Stewart '25
Degree: Political Science – American Politics and Justice (APJ) track Hometown: Bronx, NY Currently: Pursuing Master of Public Administration degree while serving as a Graduate Assistant in the Dean of Students Office at my University.
"HEOP gave me the chance to see beyond my circumstances and believe in the possibilities ahead of me. It was the foundation that allowed me to grow, dream bigger, and take bold steps forward, all with the mentorship and support that believed in me every step of the way!"
Melanie Aracena '24
My degree: Bachelor of the Arts in Social work
Hometown: Brooklyn NY
Currently: I am currently in the Advanced Standing Social Work Masters Program at the University at Albany with an expected graduation date of May 2025 as well as interning at Lasalle Schools Unaccompanied Minors program.
"Siena HEOP provided a sense of community that motivated me to stay focused on my goals. I was able to not only pursue an education but also travel to different countries and gain life-changing experiences. I am forever grateful for the people and opportunities HEOP has introduced me to!"
Jeremiah Davis '24
My degree: MBA in Strategic Management
Hometown: Bronx, NY
Currently: I am an Assistant Director of Admissions at Siena University
“I’m forever indebted to Siena HEOP for their unwavering support, guidance, and motivation. This program made it possible for me to receive a high-quality education, despite my upbringing in an underprivileged area. The genuine love and support they show each student makes HEOP feel like a true family.”
Zeidane Adjei '26
My degree: B.A. In Health Studies (Health Sciences)
Hometown: Latham, NY
Currently: I am a Patient Care Coordinator at Whitney Young Health
"My experience with Siena HEOP was more than getting through college. HEOP gave me the support, guidance and encouragement I needed to believe in myself and reach my goals. There were times when college was challenging, but knowing I had people supporting me made a big difference. Siena HEOP helped me grow not only as a student, but also as a person, and I'm grateful for the foundation it gave me to pursue a career in healthcare and continue helping others".