Eric Ascher | Edrees Arzomand | Sonia Kaczmarzyk | Zuby Syed | Elizabeth Milano |
Louis Dupiton | Geri Galotti | Frank Fanizza
Eric Ascher loves Stony Brook. He has been a resident assistant in Cardozo College since his sophomore year of college. He is a College Fellow, a Leadership and Development Intern and he coordinates the Leadership Exploration and Development (L.E.A.D.) and Growth Opportunities in Leadership Development (G.O.L.D.) programs as well as programs for the Leadership minor. He does research synthesizing polymers in the department of Organic Chemistry, and is in the process of completing a B.S in Biology. He is also on the board for Relay for Life and was instrumental in bringing the program to Stony Brook. Eric is the Hall Council Liaison for Cardozo College, the Resident Assistant Representative for Roth Quad, involved with the Community Pledge program, and a member of N.R.H.H. He resolutely states that there is no aspect of his involvement on campus that he doesn’t deeply enjoy.
As Eric discusses his participation in the Leadership programs on campus his eyes light up. He says college has taught him so much about how to be a good leader and how to effectively make a difference in people's lives. He learned his own leadership style and has been able to help others find their strengths and point them in the right direction. Eric says that helping other students locate resources and fulfill their potential is immensely gratifying to him. He says students who tell him that he has changed their lives in a positive way are all the motivation he needs to continue working on these programs.
When asked how he deals with the stress associated with the demands of rigorous hours of research, resident assistant responsibilities and being a full time student Eric explains that he gets a lot of enjoyment from everything he is involved with. Eric says he was never trying to "build a resume" or "network," he was simply passionate about the things he was involved in and wanted to help build community. In speaking with him it becomes clear that he has a zeal for life that is rare among busy undergraduates. His enthusiasm is contagious as he discusses the process of deciding what he wants to specialize in after medical school. He explains, "It's so difficult, I love everything!"
Eric advises new students to get involved in things they genuinely enjoy doing. He says there is something for everyone on campus and it is just about finding your niche. Eric says Homecoming and Roth Regatta are two events that cannot be missed at Stony Brook. "Homecoming is all about showing your school spirit and coming together; every year I choose to be on the committee because I have so much fun with it!" Eric doesn’t believe in putting his energy into things he doesn't enjoy. He has been consistently involved with the programs that he is because he likes them, not because they will be beneficial for his future career. Eric embodies the core values of Stony Brook. He is generous, respectful and driven. He's an excellent role model and clearly wise beyond his years.
In listening to Ed Arzomand talk about his involvement on campus, it becomes evident that he intends to get a lot out of his college experience and doesn’t believe in wasting time. Ed is currently the President of National Residence Hall Honorary, on the executive board for the Residence Hall Association and an office assistant. His course of study includes a double major in Applied Math and Statistics and Business Management with a concentration in Finance. He was instrumental in the Leadstrong Planning Committee, sits on the Student Life Advisory Committee and is an events coordinator for Undergraduate Student Government. Ed spends his Spring Breaks doing philanthropic work with the Alternative Spring Break Outreach program and contributes ideas and resources to the Student Health Advisory Committee. He also, miraculously, manages to find time to sleep.
Ed has maintained an avid interest in the campus community since his first day at Stony Brook University. He became a Resident Assistant his second semester of his freshman year of college and says that this experience changed his life in a fundamentally positive way. He was able to help others and in the process enrich his own experience on campus. He says of his involvement, "I wanted to make a difference and influence people in a positive way. I am so grateful for all the people who have helped me find opportunities that opened doors for me. I want to help others in the same way I was helped. I want to give something back."
Ed took on the position of President of National Residence Hall Honorary because he realized it could be a vehicle to accomplish the things he was passionate about on campus. He was also impressed by the members, accomplishments and the principles associated with the organization.
His most memorable experience on campus was his recent 'Stony Brook Secrets' campaign. This event was based on the Post Secret weblog, where people are asked to send in anonymous secrets on post cards telling secrets that range from deeply disturbing to entertainingly humorous. Through hard work and advertising Ed was able to collect over 400 submissions of secrets that Stony Brook students provided. He used these secrets to create an exhibit that was reminiscent of an art museum, where all the secrets of students were displayed. Ed says this experience was especially memorable because of the responses he received. In total over 700 people visited the exhibit, people laughed and cried and expressed to Ed that his work made them feel less alone. Ed says responses like this are what give him the drive to keep working hard.
The best advice Ed can give to incoming students is to get involved as early as possible and seek out meaningful experiences. He credits the amazing students, faculty and staff on campus for helping to make his experience so phenomenal. Ed believes in the importance of community and highlights Roth Regatta as an event that should not be missed, as it is his favorite Stony Brook tradition. At the conclusion of his undergraduate degree Ed plans to work for JP Morgan in New York City. He currently interns there during the intercessions from school and while he looks forward to a future in Finance, he knows that Stony Brook University will always hold a special place in his heart.
Sonia Kaczmarzyk is going places. Since her Freshman year at Stony Brook, Sonia has put a seemingly endless amount of positive energy into educating students about important global issues. She is the President of Oxfam America, Stony Brook Chapter, which educates the campus community about climate change concerns, fair trade and hunger. She is also a Stony Brook Ambassador, competes with the Ballroom Dance Club and tutors at the Writing Center. Her passion for helping others has blossomed out of her Freshman seminar class in the College of Leadership & Service.
One of Sonia's most meaningful lessons came from her extensive leadership role in the Hunger Banquet. "Students generally focus on the 'here and now' rather than global issues," she says. "We were able to bring a global perspective to students. It really changes who you are." Oxfam brought light to the disparity of food between the socio-economic classes around the world through this Banquet. At the end of the event, many students discussed their initial feelings about the issue, and how their viewpoint changed during and after the Banquet. As Sonia says, "Knowledge is power."
Professor Manuel London and Sister Margaret Ann Landry chose Sonia to become a change leader for Oxfam, undoubtedly because of her deep passion for helping others. "I'm planning on going to law school next year for environmental law," she says. "One of the main issues we bring up in Oxfam is how climate change affects developing countries. It's really inspired me to pursue environmental law."
One thing that Sonia truly appreciates about SBU is that she gets to meet people from all walks of life. "Compared to high school, I've been able to meet many open-minded people," she says. "You can learn something from everyone that you meet." She also appreciates that there are many different avenues of learning at SBU. "I've never felt forced to do just one thing. There are a lot of different options to get involved and try different classes," she says.
Her most memorable experience at Stony Brook took place recently, when she received a scholarship to attend the "Women & Power" conference at the Omega Institute. "I was so honored to have been given the chance to go there," she says. I didn't even apply for the scholarship. My professor, Heidi Hunter, called me and gave me the great news!" The Women & Power conference provided a forum for several prominent and influential women in the U.S., including Mae Jemison, who was the first African-American woman to travel in space.
One of Sonia's favorite campus traditions is Earthstock, especially since she is passionate about engaging the community about climate change. Sonia thinks that "it just gets you thinking differently about the environment and gives you a new perspective. You get to see so many different organizations come together for a common cause. And you can also learn firsthand about some really interesting classes from the professors."
Her advice to other students is to "find something you're passionate about. Make goals for yourself and strive for them." Sonia certainly follows her own advice. If you ever run into her on campus, you will probably witness one of her many engaging and educational events.
When talking with Zuby, one would never assume that the relaxed Stony Brook senior has so many responsibilities under control. Her passion for psychology and philosophy may explain her ability to juggle and enjoy earning a double major, but her commitment to campus leadership roles and her triple-minor in Political Science, Biology and Chemistry are truly astounding. Zuby exudes pride in everything she does and is undoubtedly the epitome of every stressed senior's dream of "grace under pressure".
Zuby's most memorable experience at SBU was planning the "Fair Trade Fair" with the Pre-Medical Society's Island Harvest Committee. "We educated students about fair trade and hunger on Long Island," Zuby remembers. "I felt accomplished, knowing that I could help create a successful, educational program. I was so dedicated to the creation of the program that it was almost like watching your baby grow."
In addition to her current role as President of the Pre-Med Society, Zuby is also involved with the Diversity Professional Leadership Network (DPLN), Americore and the Suffolk Perinatal Coalition. "Hearing success stories from women that have participated in the Coalition has helped me to realize the positive effect that I can have while helping other people," Zuby says. "I have found myself to be a leader through all of my Stony Brook experiences and it is so empowering."
Zuby explains that her on- and off-campus involvement will help her in the future. "My public speaking skills and communication skills have gotten much better," she explains. "It's funny because I didn't realize how much I was developing through all of these amazing experiences until I reflected back on them after the fact."
After graduation, Zuby plans to get engage in experiential learning in Medical School. "I want to learn about all of the different fields before I choose my career path," she says. "I'm also very conscious of how I will eventually balance having a family as well." Although Zuby is happy with all that she's accomplished at SBU, she can't fight the feeling that she doesn't want to leave. "I feel that studying Philosophy at Stony Brook will help me to make ethical decisions in the medical field," Zuby explains. "And I think that the sense of community I've found here will also cause me to seek involvement for the rest of my life. I'm proud to graduate a Seawolf but I wish I could stay longer to truly benefit from all of the things Stony Brook has to offer."
Like many of her fellow student leaders, Zuby's favorite campus tradition is the Midnight Scream! "It's one of the few times throughout the year that I feel students can unite and relax together." If Zuby could give advice to other students, it would be to "get involved now". She urges students to take the time to know your passions and never say "I'll do it next semester". Zuby says, "Time flies so fast. I wish there was still time left for me at Stony Brook to explore, but I am so happy that I have accomplished so much during my four years here."
Elizabeth Milano has such a deep passion for helping others that she wishes she didn't have a biological need to sleep. "There just isn't enough time in the day to do everything I want to do!" she says. Liz works full time at Options for Community Living, a non-for-profit organization that assists people living in the Long Island community with a mental illness or severe medical conditions. On campus, she is involved in a multitude of activities. Her dedication to serving others has undoubtedly helped improve the quality of the campus community.
Last year, Liz helped organize the "Out of the Darkness Walk" to raise money and promote awareness about depression and suicide through her role as the Community Service Coordinator of Psi Chi, SBU's Psychology Honor Society. Her role as Vice President of Active Minds also ties into her passion for destigmatizing mental illnesses. Her chapter recently won a scholarship for members to attend a conference in Jew Jersey. "I want to increase awareness on campus with innovative and visual campaigns," she says excitedly.
Liz's most meaningful experience while at Stony Brook was through her involvement with Americore. "Being involved with Americore made me realize that I want to work one on one with individuals, rather than behind the scenes," she says. Liz says that her participation with the group helped her realize the value in what she's doing. "We recently donated wash kits to the homeless," says Liz. All of her work centers around her interests and her studies; she is working on a double major in Psychology and Sociology with a minor in Health and Wellness. In the future, Liz sees herself working in counseling.
One thing she values most from going to school at SBU is "the diversity at such a large school. You get to meet so many people that are different from you." Her favorite campus tradition is Midnight Scream! because "it makes people feel connected on such a large campus," she says. "It just reminds you that you're not the only one who's stressing over finals… And it's hysterical to hear everyone scream out of their windows."
Liz's advice to other students at Stony Brook is to get involved outside of class. "Start something on campus if you can't find anything," she urges. "You will meet people with a common goal and end up making more friends in the process."
When he arrived at SBU as a Freshman, Louis Dupiton realized that he wanted to become a leader and create a positive change in the lives of others. Now at the beginning of his third year, Louis is a Resident Assistant in Stimson, the Vice President of the Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB), a Math 123 tutor, and still finds the time to excel in school and work in the Union. It's no wonder that he hangs on tight to his calendar at all times, which is packed with all of his activities and leadership responsibilities on campus.
"When I came to campus my freshman year, I saw these well-dressed brothers and was curious about what they did," he remembers. "I wanted to be a part of it too." Louis has certainly followed suit, and strives to make a difference on and off campus. Now the Vice President of SAAB, Louis is enthusiastic about inspiring others to grow personally and professionally, just as his older SAAB brothers inspired him.
One of his most meaningful experiences through SAAB was an outreach program to local schools, in which Junior High and High School students were invited to the Stony Brook campus. Louis and his brothers talked to the students about the many opportunities available to them that would ultimately help them attend college. Giving back to the community is important to Louis. "I have grown and learned a lot through my involvement with SAAB," he shares. "I didn't have a lot of role models growing up, so it's good to know that I can be one for someone else."
Louis is earning a double major in Economics and Business, specializing in Finance. After graduation, Louis plans to possibly work at the Federal Reserve, where he interned this past summer. "I want to take some time to get work experience, and then hopefully get my Masters at Stern Business School or Princeton," he explains. "Through my involvement as an RA and with SAAB, I've learned skills that enable me to create agendas, communicate effectively and be a strong leader. I feel confident to shoot for an Ivy League graduate school."
At Stony Brook, Louis has had the opportunity to work with faculty that he knows truly care about what he has to say. "I've learned to be proactive here," he says. "The administrators I've worked with help me get things done when I go to them for help. They support my ideas and goals."
Louis's favorite tradition at SBU is the Midnight Scream! "I think it's hilarious," he shares. "It's a good stress reliever and I think it really brings the campus together." Louis admits that SBU is a large campus, and that it's easy to feel left out. "I think that students should become involved early," he says. "That's why I became an RA. The more involved you are, the more you feel a connection to the university."
Louis's most memorable experience at SBU was the May 2010 graduation. "Watching my older SAAB brothers walk at graduation gave me the opportunity to reflect on my own goals for the future," he says. "They've influenced me a lot, and they inspired me to do more. I've made a lot of bonds through SAAB, and I really look up to them."
Throughout the week, you can find Geri in a variety of places on campus. Whether she is testing tissue samples for her breast cancer research in the Medical Center, working at the Dean of Students office in the SAC or going to her Women's Studies classes in the Old Chemistry building, she is thinking about ways to help others. Geri is an outstanding student whose dedication and passion for volunteerism shines through everything she does.
Now in her Senior year as a Biology Major with a double minor in Women's Studies and Health & Wellness, she has spent countless hours contributing to the positive welfare of the entire SBU community. Geri recently started a new club, Students Empowered Against Sexual Assault. She is passionate about raising awareness about important issues to her fellow students and has gained a great deal of insight through her involvement in the Red Watch Band movement, the Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) task force, as a CHOICE Peer Educator and her Safe Space training at Stony Brook.
Geri says that the most meaningful thing that she has been a part of at SBU is the Students Against Sexual Assault club. "I think it's important to be active about what you believe in," Geri says. "If you're passionate about something, you should engage the community. The club raises important issues for college students." Geri strives to motivate her peers to stay positive when working on such a painful issue. "I've learned how to communicate positively and lead others through my position as President," she says.
"One of the major benefits of being a student at SBU is that it is such a huge campus," she says. "You can get involved in so many different leadership roles and clubs. There is always something here for you." As a Child Life volunteer, Geri appreciates that she can walk over to the University hospital across campus. "There are just so many resources and opportunities and it’s all really convenient," Geri says. In her spare time, she enjoys bike riding and making jewelry with her sisters and mom. As an avid environmentalist, her favorite campus tradition is Earthstock. "It's a fun way of honoring Earth Day," she says.
Geri sees herself working in Women's Health and prevention efforts, and feels that her involvement at Stony Brook will help her in the future. "I learned to be a leader," says Geri. "I feel comfortable leading my peers and it's so rewarding to inspire other people." She stresses the importance of "going after what you want" and being independent. Through her classes on campus, she has learned the importance of asking "why?" and being inquisitive.
Her most memorable experience at Stony Brook was as an Orientation Leader. "We all got to be such good friends," says Geri. "I loved encouraging students to get involved on campus. It makes you feel more connected to the campus community."
Frank Fanizza is in it for the long haul. He's in the third year of his 5-year Chemistry Program. And he's the President of SBU's Residence Hall Association. And he's a senator in the Undergraduate Student Government (USG). And he's on the Campus Recreation Advisory Committee… Get the picture? Frank is in it to win it.
Little did he know when he arrived at Stony Brook in the Fall semester of 2008, that he was destined for greatness. His roommate dragged him along to an RHA meeting during his Freshman year and his involvement has grown into a true desire to make SBU feel like "home" for students ever since. He wants to continue to create a fun and positive environment in our campus community. When talking to Frank, you can feel his passion for the campus. "There are so many options for majors on campus and it's relatively close to the city," he says. This is a huge plus for him, since he loves the Mets.
As a prominent student leader on campus, Frank has met several challenges and learned a few valuable lessons along the way. His position as RHA President has led him to work cooperatively with his peers and increase his public speaking skills. He says that he's "met a lot of diverse people" on campus, which is a nice change from his Staten Island roots. Frank knows that going to class and working with students with different opinions has prepared him for his long term goal of becoming a chemistry teacher, or even a pathologist. He has had more insight into other cultures and customs through his interactions with students from other nations.
What other valuable lessons has Frank learned while at Stony Brook? "It's all about networking," says Frank. There are many people that Frank enjoys working with on campus. He also comments that "there just isn't enough time in the day to do everything." Frank was an SBU Marching Band member for one semester, but had to give it up in order to commit himself to his other campus leadership positions. If there were a few more hours in the day you would probably see Frank playing his tuba, joining the Bowling Club, participating in Intramurals and even spending more time on homework!
One activity that Frank always makes time for is rooting for our team in the "Red Zone." Frank's favorite campus tradition is the Homecoming game. He loves seeing students showcase their school spirit. His most memorable experience at SBU was at last season's NIT basketball game against Illinois. He says, "The arena was packed. We lost but it was an amazing game. The entire arena was decorated for the game and you could just feel the energy." Frank's advice to students is to "get involved as early as possible. People who complain the most aren’t involved on campus. There are so many opportunities to get involved."