Halloween Event Highlight

My name is Danelli Lora, and I am the President of the AfroBeats Dance Club. I am thrilled to share that we successfully hosted the Haunted House Halloween Party this year at Lehman College. This has been one of our best events yet, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our collaborators: Caribbean Unity, the Student Government Association, Crear Futuros, and the Urban Male Leadership Program.

I want to acknowledge the monumental task of decorating an entire building in just four hours. It certainly wasn’t easy, but we were fortunate to have all hands on deck. The teamwork and dedication of everyone involved were monumental in allowing us to pull off such an amazing event.

As with any event, there were a few challenges along the way, and time was our biggest adversary. Despite this, the positive feedback we received made it all worthwhile. I want to extend our gratitude to DJ Cut for keeping the energy alive throughout the night. If you haven’t already, make sure to check him out on Instagram at @Dj.cut24!

I’d also like to give a special shoutout to Alexandra, who did an extraordinary job with the makeup for all the actors in The Haunted House. You can find her work on Instagram at @insightxfx. A special thank you also goes to all the actors who brought the scares to life, along with the volunteers and crew members who helped transform the space with their hard work and creativity.

We are grateful to all our collaborators for their support and to the students of Lehman College for their participation. My team and I always strive to create an environment where students feel like Lehman is their second home. We know a student's life can be stressful, and we are so grateful to have the opportunity to create a space where everyone feels happy and safe.

This idea began last semester and has blossomed into a beautiful accomplishment that we are all proud of. We hope this event has brought joy and excitement to our campus community.

Stay tuned for our upcoming events. We can’t wait to see you there!

Thank you!

Empowering Women in Tech: The Story of Lehman's Girls Who Code Chapter

From left to right is Isaac, Alyssa, and Briana 

By: Jahzanae Evans 

Girls Who Code is on a mission to reshape the programming field and change how the tech industry is perceived. Their goal is to close the gender gap in technology by creating opportunities for young women to explore computer science. Along with building a community where women feel empowered, supported, and inspired to pursue paths in tech.  

I recently had the opportunity to attend a Girls Who Code meeting with guest speaker Isaac Atif, a lab instructor at Lehman. The topic of the event was Intro to Web Development, and I had the pleasure of speaking with Alyssa Falcon and Briana Deloatch, the current President and Vice President of Girls Who Code.  

Alyssa mentioned that the former President, Yensly Castellanos, and Vice President, Yarlin Guzman, desired to see more women in the computer science field. “It’s been just a year since the club started, stemming from Yensly’s goal of more representation,” Alyssa explains.  

Briana emphasized the club’s role in building community.  She says, "bringing minorities together gives everyone the opportunity to feel included.” When reflecting upon her own experience on campus, Alyssa said, “When I came to Lehman, I did not have a friend group or clique, and Girls Who Code became that community for me.”  

Girls Who Code was founded to welcome a diverse group of students, not only those who major in computer science or have prior coding experience. Briana shares, “We’re open to anyone with an interest in learning tech skills – you don’t have to be a computer science major, or even a girl, to join.” She emphasized that since technology skills are highly sought after, everyone should have access to learning those skills 

Members gain a range of skills that go beyond technical. According to Alyssa, members strengthen their communication skills and build competitive resumes - which is an essential skill, as tech industry resumes differ significantly from those in other fields. Additionally, members have opportunities to learn new programming languages, including CSS and JavaScript. 

Girls Who Code faces a few unique sets of challenges in terms of promoting coding. Briana and Alyssa spoke of how difficult it is to get students to attend meetings, and how a lack of marketing affects turnout. Specifically, Briana said that a lot of newcomers can feel intimidated or feel as though they do not belong. To this, Alyssa offers encouraging advice: “Just come to our events, ask all those questions, and reach out to us.” Everyone starts somewhere, and all newcomers should know that the Girls Who Code community is welcoming and supportive.  

Looking ahead, Alyssa has ambitious plans for the club. One of their key goals is to “arrange visits to partner organizations and tech companies and quite possibly the Girls Who Code headquarters.” By expanding outreach and providing unique experiences, she envisions a future where Girls Who Code can continue to grow as a vibrant community for women in tech. 

To enhance the club’s mission and activities, both students and faculty play a crucial role. Alyssa suggested that having professors and instructors engage with students can create valuable connections within the tech field.  Additionally, fostering relationships with other Girls Who Code chapters can provide more resources and networking opportunities. By collaborating, the school community can help empower the mission behind our chapter.  

On November 20th Girls Who Code is having an exciting collaborative event with the Google Developer Student Club and the ColorStack x Computer Science Club here at Lehman. You can find all the details on Club Central. Make sure you RSVP and stay connected with Girls Who Code via their Instagram, and if you would like to reach out to Alyssa or Briana personally, don’t be afraid to chat with them on LinkedIn.  

The Story of Dorothy Dobson, a Lehman Alumni and Leader

By Zaynab Kolya 

Dorothy Dobson is the kind of person whose story mirrors many students who attend Lehman College. She has been a member of the staff at Lehman College since 2011, but she’s been a part of this community for much longer. Coming from Jamaica as a young woman to study fashion modeling, she first started at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology). There, she worked for esteemed designers like Bill Blass and Joseph Abboud and specialized in creating various kinds of top-quality dresses. During this time, she supported herself by tutoring students from the high school nearby where she lived in Westchester. While she was skilled in creating glamorous pieces of art with fellow artists, she found her true calling in education, where she uplifted the lives of the young people around her through knowledge. Dobson went back to college, earning a bachelor's degree in secondary education focusing on history. After graduating from Lehman, she taught at a couple of different high schools. Still, she was eventually drawn back to Lehman through a program that allowed her to assist students in passing the CUNY entrance exam. By the end of this program, 25 out of 27 students had passed, propelling her students toward a better future. Because of this, she was appointed as a professor in the English Department. She completed a master's in history and taught additional classes in writing skills and college prep for the Continuing Education Department. Her drive to improve herself and her skills led the Dean of the Continuing Education department to offer her the position of Associate Director for the workforce programs. She accepted the position in 2015, where she worked until she was eventually promoted to department director.   

As Director of Workforce Education, she has been developing job training programs for New Yorkers tailored to the context of their lives. Many of those seeking vocational certifications in pharmacy, nursing, and other fields struggle to learn in their second language. Other students work in order to support themselves and can only attend classes at certain times. Director Dobson specializes in creating customized job training programs that take into account the circumstances of people’s lives. She works with various job organizations to develop curriculums that incorporate teaching ESL (English as a Second Language) and creates flexible schedules tailored around students’ busy schedules. The customized job programs Director Dobson has created provide financial stability for students while also giving direction to their lives. With the achievement of obtaining a certification for a job, there is now an opportunity to move up to a higher position with the help of the staff at the Workforce Education department. For example, a student who becomes a CNA through the program can become a patient care technician. With this stability, the possibility of pursuing a college degree also opens.  

When I interviewed Director Dobson, I wanted to understand the drive behind a person who had not only empowered herself into success but also empowered and impacted the lives of so many students. If there are people who lift the “ladder” so others can’t climb up, Dorothy Dobson provides stability and direction for the journey her students are on. This was a lesson stressed to her by her parents, who believed that social mobility could be achieved through the pursuit of education. She sees herself as a lifelong learner who believes she can instill respect and interest in education in others. This is because when Dobson was a student looking for answers and needing help, she remembered there were very few to no support programs when she was in school. She didn’t have anyone rooting for her; perhaps that was one of her greatest driving factors. As an immigrant in a new country, she already had a learning curve and didn’t have someone in her ear emphasizing the importance of networking and internships. Even though she graduated Magna Cum Laude, an honor given to students at the top of their class, she still looks back on that time and figures with support, she could have done a lot better. With this regret comes the understanding of how necessary it is to provide support to students, with her remarking, “I mean, if we don’t do it, who else will?”  

‘Spring Odyssey: A Cultural Fashion Canvas’ A Personal Reflection

By Samuel Boucher

I’ve always considered myself an advocate for self-expression and a huge admirer of anyone who can unapologetically be themselves. I think those kinds of people have always inspired me specifically because I wasn’t really allowed to be my authentic self growing up, and most of the time, I felt like my talents and true potential weren’t being realized. Now, I’m at a place in my life where I can express myself freely and be as creative as I want. One of my main aspirations right now is to create spaces where everyone feels encouraged to be themselves and they’re not judged for sharing their art, their talents, and their history. That notion was the driving factor for me to create The Modeling Club here at Lehman. 

My Co-President Jaime & I created The Lehman Modeling Club with one unwavering goal: to create a diverse community where everyone would feel encouraged to use the space and platforms we provide to express themselves artistically beyond their own aspirations. When coming up with the idea of ‘Spring Odyssey: A Cultural Fashion Canvas,’ we knew we had to maintain our motto of inclusivity when approaching this ambitious project. It was only after we reflected on interacting with the diverse community of Lehman Students during our first semester as club leaders that inspired the infusion of various cultures within the Spring aesthetic of the Show. 

We were inspired to title the fashion show ‘Spring Odyssey’ after observing the participants’ of this project. Everyone’s hard work, resilience, and, above all, their growth from the start of this process to the day of the show was remarkable and inspirational. Just seeing how much a person can learn about themselves, not just as it relates to interpersonal teamwork skills, but how much they can accomplish if they simply believe in themselves. Every person involved in the fashion show left as a more realized, powerful, and proud version of the person they came in as on day one of auditions. 

I knew from the beginning that I didn’t want us all doing the same thing; there’s too much talent in the Lehman Community to showcase in only one way. In addition to the models, there were Singers, Dancers, Spoken Word Artists, Style Crew, Light Crew, Sound Crew, Run Crew, Building Crew, Decorators, Ushers, Photographers, and Videographers, all of whom were incredible Lehman Students. They all possess their very own unique style and swag, and that’s what made this particular project so different and legendary. No single individual involved in this production is like another, I wanted everyone to embrace their uniqueness and be proud of their purpose, growth, imperfections, and undeniable talent. I’m most proud of the relationships that were created through this experience, the sense of belonging, and the family that blossomed through all the ups and downs. We intended for everyone who came to view our show to see themselves in at least one person involved in ‘Spring Odyssey’ and say, “I can do that too.” 

I hope everyone involved is aware of how much their contribution to this project has positively impacted campus life at Lehman and knows they are now a part of an amazing legacy. Thank you to everyone who supported us throughout this process. Rest assured…this is not the last you’ll hear from The Lehman Modeling Club!

Brandon Marks Student Highlight

By Brandon Marks

Where to begin? I never would’ve imagined everything I gained from coming to Lehman College. From my background in basketball, which drew me to enroll here, to all the friends who have become like family, to the countless life lessons I’ll be able to carry with me forever. 

College is what you make out of it, for the first couple of years, it was rough for my generation due to COVID-19; no one was on campus, and besides having basketball, it didn’t feel like the real “college experience.”  I would say around my mid-sophomore/junior year is when my real college experience started and it's been somewhat unique. We don’t have dorms, and not many parties/hangouts, it’s different than what you would expect in college growing up. Truth be told, it was exactly what I needed: a place to focus on school, play basketball, limit distractions, and grow as an individual. I faced many challenges at Lehman, mainly balancing school and playing Division 3 basketball, but honestly, it has shaped my life for the better. My coach told me it was better that I went to Lehman and dealt with all these struggles rather than being spoiled at a Division 1 program and overwhelmed with all the challenges that life throws you. For the last few years, our team motto has been that ‘we need to adapt and overcome,’ and I’ve done exactly that. I came into Lehman as a boy and will soon be leaving a man. Honestly, I couldn’t have asked for anything more. 

Everyone there wants you to succeed. No one's going to do it for you, but they’re by your side if you need them. This year will be my final year at Lehman. The only thing I need is a CUNYAC championship, and then I’ll finally be satisfied. Shoutout to my teammates on the men’s basketball team and to all my coaches and the staff who make what we do possible! 

Discover Your Path in the Sports Industry with the Lehman College Sports Business Club!

What They Don't Tell You About Being a First-Generation College Student

By Cindy Orellana 

Thirteen years ago, my mother immigrated to the United States from Honduras without the chance to pursue higher education. Unlike my mother, I have been fortunate enough to attend college since arriving in the United States eight years ago. Although Spanish is my first language, I have worked diligently to learn English throughout my time in high school and beyond. My mother has always encouraged me to make the most of this opportunity and set a positive example for my siblings. However, she did not prepare me for the unique challenges of being a first-generation college student. 

 While there are many resources available, there are still some aspects of college that can be challenging. My top priorities are not only achieving personal success, graduating from college and becoming an English teacher and independence but also making my family proud. As a first-generation college student, I recognize the significance of perseverance and diligence. Without these qualities, all of my efforts may be in vain. Even though I already knew that I needed these qualities even before college I knew that in college I would needed more.  During my senior year of high school, I worked full-time at a laundry, with the goal of folding 400 pounds of clothes in just eight hours. I knew that I needed to save up enough money to pay for my college tuition, especially since I was an undocumented student. I paid for my first year of college paying my tuition with the money I'd saved from my job at the laundry. Along the way, I researched different types of scholarships that I could apply for so that I could receive additional financial assistance. 

As a first-generation college student, you may find yourself also working part-time or full-time to cover not only your tuition but also book expenses.  At first, I spent late nights completing homework assignments while working full-time at a bakery six days a week,  and attending morning classes. Despite my best efforts, my physical and mental well-being began to suffer, and I made the difficult decision to transition to a part-time job at a school where I now serve as a senior group leader, helping second graders with homework, while also creating lesson plans to teach them social-emotional learning, project-based learning, and others. For 22 hours each week. Balancing work and full-time studies remains a challenge, especially without financial or emotional support from my family. This lack of understanding and encouragement can be discouraging and isolating at times. 

        	Even though my mother has been an inspiration for me and has helped me be where I am today, she has also been a ‘burden’ because of her pressure on my shoulders. The words of my stepdad have been on my mind all the time. He has told me  “You can’t do it,” “You are a nobody,” “You will get pregnant at the age of 18,” and “You are undocumented--  no one will help you” Despite my stepdad's words of discouragement, I have always found inspiration. I have used it as motivation to prove him wrong. I refuse to believe that I am limited by my background or circumstances and am determined to reach my goals, no matter what obstacles I may face. 

Being a first-generation college student means that you will have a lot of eyes on you and lots of pressure on your shoulders. College has been quite stressful for me. At times, the pressure to perform has become so overwhelming that I’ve cried while working on my assignments. The thought of graduating d only added to my anxiety, especially since interesting my mother would frequently boast about my achievements to others without really understanding what I was going through. She doesn't know what I am going through. She just tells others how proud she is of me, but she does not ask me how I am doing. “Give yourself grace, stay true to yourself, don’t be afraid to ask for help, utilize your connections, and take advantage of the opportunities,” I tell myself all the time. It is okay to not be okay! 

I had to learn how to do everything on my own, from applying to colleges and FAFSA to setting up an Amazon account for purchasing textbooks and even figuring out how to obtain a VISA or Credit Card. However, this experience taught me valuable skills, including how to be more confident. Today, I am proud to be assisting my sister in her college application process and guiding her on how to apply for FAFSA. It's amusing to hear her ask me a straightforward question, such as "Should I put my social security number where it says my social security number?" But I understand where she's coming from. I was once in her shoes. I've even helped my aunt apply to different colleges and apply for the Jose Peralta Scholarship for undocumented students. Knowing that I am helping someone achieve their goals and dreams fills me with pride, and it's satisfying to apply the skills I learned to help others. 

Being a first-generation college student means that I have to push myself to work even harder when I am struggling because I want to succeed. I want to strive for what my parents could not have, to not only honor them but to honor myself for my dedication, hard work, and all I am doing. Now that I am a senior in college about to graduate, I realize the special gift I was given that some might take for granted. I was allowed to attend college. For others, this might seem like a natural step but for me, it means the world.    

This is for the nights of having to translate from Spanish to English to write a paper. Look where my broken English got me and where it will take me! This is for the days I thought I was never going to get through this because of depression and anxiety. This is for the struggle I faced and will face in the future. I know how much it means for me to want to help my gente, but this day is about me and celebrating how far I’ve come. If I could meet freshman me, I know how proud she would be. 

Heart Health Month

with Dina D’alessandro

February is Heart Health Month and Dina the Dietitian is here to help you take care of your ticker. Considering all of the factors that affect our health, we hope the following strategies and tips are easy to follow, especially with your busy schedule as a college student:

• Nutrition plays a huge role in heart health, which is why it’s important to include a variety of richly-colored, vibrant foods in as many meals as possible throughout the day. Leafy greens, berries, avocado, nuts, salmon, and dark chocolate are great at protecting your heart. 

• While indulging in the occasional fried or salty food is fine, be careful not to overdo it. Staying hydrated helps move sodium out of your cells, resulting in better blood circulation. So, be sure to drink enough water and other fluids. Carry a water bottle with you and quickly stop at any of our water stations throughout the buildings on campus to refill.

• Moderate daily movement—like brisk walking (or running to class)—can decrease the risk of heart-related diseases and increase your quality of life. Lehman’s beautiful 37-acre campus should make it easy enough for you to meet your movement goal. Getting your heart and lungs pumping helps deliver oxygen into the bloodstream and to the working muscles (including your brain).

• Proper sleep and stress-reducing activities benefit the heart as well. To increase better sleep quality and quantity, get to bed at a decent time and try to aim for at least 7 hours of sleep each night (no late-night cramming!). To help manage stress and increase mental clarity, consider meditation/praying, breathing exercises, gentle stretches, yoga or getting outside in nature for even as little as 20 minutes a day.

• Excessive alcohol intake can be detrimental in so many ways. If you’re finding yourself drinking frequently, consider reaching out to Lehman’s Counseling Center for help or contact the SAMHSA Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Need help managing a chronic condition or just looking for some guidance on how to make healthier choices on campus? Schedule a FREE nutrition counseling session with Dina D'alessandro:

Call (718) 960-8900

E-mail med.requirements@lehman.cuny.edu

Visit Old Gym Building, Rm B008