Fall 2014 Tutors
Chante Mayers-Barbot
Major: Sociology
Minor: Education Class Year: Junior Workdays: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday I am a junior at the University at Albany. I am 20 years old and I am from the best borough in NYC, which you may have guessed is Brooklyn! I am very excited to be a part of this year’s STEP staff. Apart from STEP, I am also apart of Service is Key, Chi Alpha Epsilon, Kappa Delta Pi, Peace Action, and the Sociology Honors Program were I will have completed my undergraduate thesis my senior year. Next semester, I am planning to study aboard which I am really excited about. In my free time, I enjoy shopping, spending time with my family and being in the company of my good friends. I’m not too sure what I want to do in the near future, but I do know that I want to make a difference everywhere I go. Overall, I hope to share a great experience with the students in the STEP program. |
Melanie David (Cleopatra)
Major: Sociology
Minor: Women Studies Class Year: Junior Position: Mentor Work Days: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday My name is Melanie, I'm a junior at the university at Albany with a major in sociology and a minor in women studies. I transferred after my freshman year at SUNY Old Westbury. I am Dominican and I was raised in Washington Heights. I take interest in helping others generally although I don't know what specific career I'm aiming for. I have a passion for interactions with others and working to improve the qualities of my peers educations and lives. I like reading and dancing. I'm very excited to work with STEP this year and hope not only to teach my students but to also learn from them as well! |
Khurshid Khan
Khurshid A. Khan
Major: Sociology Minor: Criminal Justice/ Education Class Year: Senior Position: Tutor Workday: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday My name is Khurshid, most people usually call me Khursh or Khan, and I am currently a senior at UAlbany. I’m from Queens, New York but I have spent a fair share of my time hanging out in The Bronx and Manhattan. I went to The Bronx high school of Science and I really want to teach there one day. I like to experience new things to understand, learn and develop myself as a person. My hobbies include basketball, reading books/articles, listening to music and hanging out with friends. I am also a member of middle earth, which is a peer-counseling program. I joined STEP to gain new experiences, meet new people and help myself and others learn. I am a calm and collected person so I get along with anyone and everyone. |
Lissette Hernandez
Major: Sociology
Minor: Business Class Year: Senior Position: Tutor/Mentor Workdays: Monday & Wednesdays My name is Lissette Hernandez and I am a senior at the University at Albany. I’m currently a 21 year old from Harlem NY. One of my passions consist of working with kids therefore I’m hoping to one day become an occupational therapist. I’m a very outgoing individual; I truly enjoy meeting new people and having fun. I’ve been working with STEP for two years and my love and passion for the program only continues to grow. We’ve had some amazing students who have taught me both about myself as a person and as a Tutor/Mentor. I learned that educating is something I truly enjoy and challenging yourself is an important factor to growing. Aside from working with STEP, I also enjoy writing, reading, decorating, and scrap booking. I also enjoy nature; I like going hiking, fishing, swimming, etc. (I can go on forever). Overall, I’m approachable and I live to help others therefore when I have the have the opportunity to do so, I do not think twice. My goal for this year is to help as many students possible, and to watch many of them grow and hopefully move on to pursue a college education. We are here to serve as a team to help STEP students achieve their academic and personal goals. |
Antonia Yeates
Major: Psychology
Minor: English Class Year: Junior Position: Tutor/Mentor Workdays: Tuesday & Thursday My name is Antonia Yeates and I am currently a junior at the University at Albany. I am a psychology major with a concentration in Biology and a minor in English, hoping to eventually go to medical school to become an OBGYN. I joined the STEP program because I know first hand what it is capable of—being a product of the NYU STEP program. I know that most teenagers want someone to relate to them and not just tell them what to do, but give advice and most importantly listen. It is import to me to be that individual that is there for these young adults, as I had someone there for me when I was that age. |
Shanice Martin
Major: Psychology
Minor: Business & Math Class Year: Junior Position: Tutor Workdays: Tuesday & Thursday All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them. ~Walt Disney Hello, my name is Shanice Martin. I am currently 20 years old and a junior at the University at Albany. I am interested in entering the field of sports psychologist and one day owning a business. First meeting me, I may come off as quiet but once I warm up to you I’m pretty outgoing. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, I am a city girl at heart. My family background is Jamaican and I love embracing my culture by being the treasurer for Pan-Caribbean Association. I love giving back to the community not only in my hometown Brooklyn but here in Albany as well. I love to dance, listen to music, read and go shopping. I love traveling and hope to travel outside this continent within the next year. I love trying new things and meeting new people. I’ve been a pesco-vegetarian for over four years now and have no intentions of changing that. This is my first year as a STEP tutor and I am looking forward to having a great experience. I’m pretty open minded and a great listener so feel free to talk to me or ask me anything. |
Yvette Boafo
Major: Social Work
Class Year: 2nd Year Graduate Student Position: Intern Workday: Thursday “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” - Albert Einstein Hi everyone! My experience as a college student has been a great journey. I came into SUNY Albany as a Freshman in 2010 and graduated in three years with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, minor in Education. While I was an undergraduate, I was highly involved on campus and held titles such as a Tour Guide, Orientation Assistant, Resident Assistant, and Peer Career Advisor. I am now in the second year of my Master’s program in Social Work and I honestly cannot believe how fast time flies. I decided to intern for STEP because over the years I realized my passion lies within helping the youth to reach their fullest potential. I enjoy being a resource and helping people to embrace their uniqueness. I am also very passionate about advocating for injustices and oppressed populations. When I have free time, I love hanging out with my friends and eating chipotle ;D The combination of the two is even better! I also love going back home to the Bronx because that is where I find my peace and comfort. I look forward to working with students and witnessing growth! |
Andrea Briceno
Class Year: Senior
Major: Sociology & Spanish Minor: Psychology & LGBT* Studies Position: Mentor & Tutor Workdays: Tuesday & Thursday My name is Andrea Briceño and I am a senior, expecting graduation May 2015 and I hope to one day become a successful OB/GYN. I was born and raised in Queens, NY until I was 12 and then moved to Texas. I am a Sociology and Spanish major with double minors in Psychology and LGBT* Studies. I have been mentoring for a few years now and through STEP I was able to combine my passion for children with my love for education in hopes of having a positive impact. Working with STEP has had a great impact on my life because I was able to meet wonderful people that changed my life as well as playing a role in the betterment of this community. I am always open to enjoying a good book or movie, I love food (Pizza and Thai are life) and I cannot wait to travel throughout Europe. I have an obsession with learning about the Ancient Egyptians and the Holocaust, so I am always watching documentaries. I love to live my life without fear of making mistakes because mistakes are lessons learned. |
Gilbert Steier (Gibby)
Major: Computer Science
Minor: None Class Year: Junior Position: Tutor Workdays: Tuesdays & Thursdays Hello World! My name is Gilbert Steier but you all can call me Gibby. I am an aspiring computer scientist with a knack for logic puzzles. I enjoy tricks and games on my spare time. I can help you guys and girls in math and physics. You're also free to ask me almost anything about college life! I'm looking forward to seeing you all again! |
Candacy Angell
Major: Mathematics
Class Year: Senior Position: Mentor/Tutor Workdays: Tuesdays My name is Candacy Angell and I am a senior majoring in Mathematics at the University at Albany. Growing up, I have always done well in all subjects in school. Nevertheless, Math has always been my passion. Even though this is so, I did not choose to make Math my major in college until my senior year in High School when I witnessed my teacher's love for the subject and the methods that he used to both teach and ensure that all of his students understood what was being taught. Many people often ask me what I intend to do with a degree in Mathematics and, surprisingly to them, my answer is always, "I intend on going to medical school to fulfill my dream of becoming a physician." Aside from being a Mathematics major, I am the Vice-President of Pan-Caribbean Association (a student organization located on the campus of the University at Albany) and I am a volunteer mentor and tutor for the Science & Technology Entry Program (STEP) at the University at Albany. I chose to volunteer with STEP because I, myself, was a member of STEP during my middle school years and I appreciate all of the guidance and assistance that I received. Moreover, I am always willing to work with and help others achieve their goals. I am very excited to be a STEP mentor and tutor this semester and I look forward to meeting and interacting with all of the students. :) |
Nariele Santana
Major: Sociology
Minor: Psychology & Criminal Justice Class Year: Senior Position: Tutor/Mentor Workday: Tuesday & Thursday “Obstacles are meant to challenge you .. Challenge ACCEPTED” Hello everyone! My name is Nariele Santana and I am a tutor! I am currently a senior at the University at Albany (SUNY) working on a bachelors’ in sociology with double minors in psychology and criminal justice. In the future, I would love to work with the troubled youth as I help guide them in a better direction. I am from the amazing borough of Manhattan in New York City. In addition to that great city, I also lived in the Dominican Republic for 5 years. My background is a great foundation for understanding me as a person. I am fun, outgoing, optimistic, very open-minded, respectful and last but never the least jolly (that is only a glimpse of my personality). In a crowd, I am often considered the “fun mediator” because I am also very realistic. I enjoy working with teens because I also had mentors who guided me during my high school years. My interests vary greatly. I began my college career as criminology major but ended up changing my major due to newfound interest. Growing up my dream was to become an obstetrician/gynecologist but I soon realized that I do not work well with blood, so I switched it up. I believe that in life when presented with obstacles you must overcome them. Therefore, I switched my focus from medicine to the community and ways in which to better our future generations. The change in pace was a fresh beginning and I was extremely excited to pursue my new found interest. The STEP program is one of the highlights of my college career. When I was first introduced to step, I was fascinated by the opportunity it presented. With STEP I have the chance to help educate and empower the youth of tomorrow. The relationship between the teens and the staff is genuine and rewarding. Helping the students with homework, projects and future career ideas strengthens their confidence in their own abilities. Conducting workshops that challenge the mind expands your mental capacity, which is captivating. Fun facts about myself: I am very silly. I enjoy having fun and making situations enjoyable by introducing a smile (smiles are contagious). Laughter is the best medicine for many things. However, there is always a time and a place for everything. With that in mind, when things have to get done they become a priority, and then we laugh later. During high school, I was a softball player (absolutely love it!). I was also an active teen at the YMCA which allowed me to be in clubs such as Teens Take the City, Youth and Government, Leaders club, Poetry club, Dance club, Step club and many more. |
Oneisha Robinson
Major: Human Biology
Minor: Music Class Year: Junior Position: Tutor Workday: Monday and Tuesday My name is Oneisha Robinson, but a nickname used for me is Neisha. I am currently a junior at the University at Albany (SUNY). I am from Queens, NY and I am 19 years old. With my major as Human Biology, the career I am focusing on is to be a Neonatologist. I chose music as a minor because I have been and still am a singer and I play the flute. I chose to be a part of the STEP program because I feel that everyone should have a chance to pursue their dream. I never had anyone come into my high school to help us decide if a science career is what we wanted or helped us with our classes. I’m a very friendly person, but very straightforward. I love to laugh and to make people do the same. Most individuals I know would call me focused and determined when put to a task. My hobbies include reading, making new recipes (cooking wise) and making new arrangements for songs. I am also heavily involved in community projects at home. However, all that aside, I am here to help you! |
Sheila Flores
Major: Public Health
Minor: Biology Class Year: Junior Position: Tutor Workday: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday My name is Sheila Flores and I am currently a Junior at the University at Albany. I was born and raised in Queens, NY. Academically, I was originally a biology major intending to become a Marine Biologist. However, I switched to Public Health. In the field of Public Health there are 6 main concentrations that you can specialize in. I’m interested in biomedical sciences and the health policy field. I want to minor in French as well, because I enjoy learning new languages and will like to become a trilingual. I might also pursue a second bachelor’s degree in nursing. Personally, I enjoy learning new things because I feel like you can never learn enough. I love playing volleyball and other sports (I can get competitive hehe). I love Halloween and horror movies although I get scared easily. I also love to eat; I’m honestly like a vacuum. I love water parks and amusement parks as well as playing board games, card games and the list goes on. I joined STEP because I want to help you guys achieve your goals and see you do well in school. I will lend my ears if you ever want someone to talk to. I hope we have a great year and I hope to watch you blossom into amazing individuals. |
Trudy Morgan
Major: Public Policy
Minor: Political Science Position: Tutor Class Year: Sophomore Workdays: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays Hello! I am Gertrude Morgan. Many people call me Trudy. I was born and raised in Ghana, West Africa but I have spent one-fifth of my life so far in the Bronx, NYC. I aspire to become a Defense Attorney and or work with the government legislature. This aspiration is due to internship and volunteer opportunities I have had with several law agencies, non-profit organizations and governmental institutions (This is one reason why internships and volunteer service are important). I have had the privilege of becoming a youth advocate on behalf of the Citizens’ Committee for Children of New York and a public policy intern with the Bronx Defenders. I also tutored elementary and middle school immigrant students at the Refugee and Immigrant Support Service at Emmaus (RISSE). I love writing and I enjoy watching shows that have government, crime and law-related themes- Criminal Minds, Nikita, Suits, Scandal and 24. My lifestyle is largely influenced by the Golden Rule: “Do unto others what you want others to do unto you.” It is a simple statement but a transforming one. Just as Foucault argues that discourses [of truth] are circular, so are actions reciprocal. If you want to be loved, love. If you want respect, it is important to give respect. If you want to have a peace of mind, avoid giving a “piece of your mind”. Make peace instead |
Brittney Grant
Major: Human Biology
Class Year: Junior Position: Mentor Workdays: Mondays Hi everyone, my name is Brittney and I’m a junior at the University at Albany. I am an aspiring pediatrician, majoring in Human Biology. I absolutely love working with kids, and I try to cease any opportunity I can to uplift our youth. On campus, I currently serve as the Vice President of The Minority Association of Pre-Health Students, a heavily community-service based organization with the goal of supporting minorities who like me, are working towards a career in the medical/health field. Community service is something I keep very close to my heart because I believe that giving back to your community is extremely important. I find passion in helping others discover their true potential, and that is why I am here to help you! Like other members of the STEP staff, I have already been in your shoes. I know all about the college application process, SAT prep, and many other things that you may need help with. Please do not hesitate to ask me anything! :) |
Erica Martin
Major: Sociology
Minor: Medical Anthropology Workdays: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday Class Year: Senior Hey guys my name is Erica I'm currently a senior at UAlbany. I'm from Manhattan, NY and going away to college has been the best decision i've ever made. When I first arrived I was set on getting involved on campus and making new friends because I didn't come to college with any friends from back home. I decided to be a sociology major because I love getting to know people and learning about different cultures all over the world. Adjusting to the college life and being away from your family can be difficult because you are responsible for yourself whether its going to class or handling financial situations. Luckily I was able to find a balance and work my way through the years. I am currently apart of Under Construction dance team which I love. I was so happy I could still do what I like which is to dance. The experiences of performing and competing has been everything to me and it's definitely helped me establish life long friendships as well. I volunteer at Brighter Choice Middle School where I teach dance and step to the middle school girls. Teaching has become my passion and I love to help people in anyway possible. I'm always full of energy and willing to make people laugh and I look forward to working with you all. |
Adedotun Oni
Major: Human Biology
Minor: Africana Studies Class Year: Junior My name is Adedotun Oni or better yet known as Dotun, and i am going to be an AVID tutor at Albany High School. I'm Nigerian and from Queens, New York. I am a junior at the University at Albany. I have been working with STEP for about two years. I major in human biology and minor in Africana Studies. I am truly, looking forward with working with all of you for the course of the upcoming semester. |
Patonia Guerra
Major: Sociology
Minor: Psychology; Africana Studies Class Year: My name is Patonia Guerra and I am currently a junior here at the University at Albany. I am from Long Island and I am 20 years old. I major in Sociology with minors in Psychology and Africana Studies. I am the President of an on-campus organization named Pan-Caribbean Association, which I love being a part of! My family is from Trinidad and Tobago and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Music is what saves me! I love to sing and dance and I play the steel drums. Unfortunately, my father passed away when I was only ten years old and I felt as if I had nobody to talk to. This led to me acquire a passion for helping children who are faced with tough times in their lives. I chose to be a part of the STEP Team because they do some much to help the students of the Albany community. I love being around the youth because they inspire me and I continuously strive to be a role model for them. |
Shawn Marshall Jr.
Major: Journalism
Minor: Communication/Education Class year: Sophomore Position: Mentor/Tutor Workdays: Monday, Wednesdays, and Saturdays “No I’m not the nicest, I just live like it” I am from Hempstead, New York which is a small town in Long Island. I enjoy playing lacrosse and soccer but when it comes to spectating I enjoy almost every sport out there. I enjoy diversity in many aspects of my life from the music I listen too to the people I associate with. My goal in life is to be a broadcast journalist and bring journalism back to the prestigious status it once had. My hobbies include socializing, video games, driving, and traveling. I’ve been a tutor since last year and my areas of expertise are English and history but I’m always willing to step out of my comfort zone and help with any subject as much as I can. |
Ashley C Whiteside
Major: Social Welfare
Minor: Public Policy/Education Position: Tutor Workdays: Wednesday & Thursday My name is Ashley Whiteside and I am currently a freshman at The University at Albany (SUNY). I was born and raised in Buffalo, New York and I am 18 years old. I am a Social Welfare major and Public Policy and Education minor with hopes of being a Family and Community Outreach Coordinator. A Family and Community Outreach Coordinator is someone who talks with students, teachers, a parents, etc. to figure out what’s not working efficiently in a school district and make creative solution sand initiatives to potentially fix the problems. I hope to one day go back to Buffalo and solve the immense problems plaguing the Buffalo Public Schools. Back in Buffalo I was a student of STEP at the University of Buffalo under Mrs. Simone Ragland. I was involved for my last three years of high school—so I can really relate to most of things that students are going through, being that I recently just finished. I am an extremely outgoing and friendly person. I love to meet people and make new friends. I am always involved and active in activities; some activities I find myself newly involved in at the university are Resident Hall Association, UA Salsa Dance Club, and (hopefully) Club Volleyball. I enjoy reading, exercising, and trying new things in my free time. I love learning new things about people and the world; I honestly believe knowledge is power and the way to lead people out of poverty and create better lives and futures is through education. |
Asta Kaba
Major: Human Biology
Minor: Undecided
Position: Mentor/ Tutor
Workday: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday
My name is Asta Kaba. I am currently a freshman at the University at Albany. I am from Brooklyn, NY and I am 18 years old. I am from a Guinean background and I love embracing my culture. Before I came to the university I wanted to major in Biochemistry but after doing more research I realized that being a Human Bio major was best suitable for me. After I graduate with an undergrad degree I plan on going to medical school. My career aspiration is to become a pediatrician. I adore kids and the concept of helping them get better when ill. When I was fairly young I realized that I wanted to be a doctor but I never knew exactly which type of doctor. And so as the years progressed I realized that my passion for helping people and my love for children would result in becoming a pediatrician.
Minor: Undecided
Position: Mentor/ Tutor
Workday: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday
My name is Asta Kaba. I am currently a freshman at the University at Albany. I am from Brooklyn, NY and I am 18 years old. I am from a Guinean background and I love embracing my culture. Before I came to the university I wanted to major in Biochemistry but after doing more research I realized that being a Human Bio major was best suitable for me. After I graduate with an undergrad degree I plan on going to medical school. My career aspiration is to become a pediatrician. I adore kids and the concept of helping them get better when ill. When I was fairly young I realized that I wanted to be a doctor but I never knew exactly which type of doctor. And so as the years progressed I realized that my passion for helping people and my love for children would result in becoming a pediatrician.
