Sofia graduated from NYU’s Education Studies program in 2018, where she gained a deep understanding of education on both a global and local scale. The program broadened her perspective on the intersections of education, society, politics, and economics, strengthening her passion for addressing disparities in higher education. She went on to work as a college advisor and a registrar counselor, gaining first-hand experience in supporting students through the college process. Sofia later earned her Master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs at NYU and is now the Assistant Director of the Community College Opportunity Program (CCTOP) at New York University.
My favorite part of the Education Studies program was its global component and the opportunity to study abroad.
How did the Education Studies program help you prepare for your career?
The Education Studies program was the foundation of my journey into higher education. The opportunities, peers, and instructors helped me explore my passions and pursue research that continues to shape my work today. Through the program, I gained a deeper understanding of the history of education, global education systems, and education policy, as well as the inequalities that impact students—insights I wouldn’t have had without these classes.
What was your favorite part of the Education Studies program?
My favorite part of the Education Studies program was its global component and the opportunity to study abroad. As a young adult, I might not have pursued studying abroad on my own due to a lack of confidence in navigating a new country. However, this program made the transition seamless, allowing me to explore education in an international context while fully immersing myself in a new culture. Through an internship at a nonprofit organization, I applied what I had learned in the classroom while gaining a deeper understanding of education, society, and the lives of the people I worked with.
Was there an Education Studies course, professor, or particular challenge that sticks with you?
Dr. Stella Flores had a lasting impact on me. Seeing a Latina professor teach and conduct research in education policy - specifically investigating the effects of state and federal policies on college access and completion rates for low-income and underrepresented populations - was incredibly inspiring. As someone who shared a similar background and passion, I felt connected to her work. Dr. Stella Flores also gave me the opportunity to assist with two of her research projects, which allowed me to gain valuable qualitative and quantitative skills that have been essential in my career.
How did you end up in your current role?
I began my career as a college advisor with the College Advising Corps, driven by my passion for supporting students, particularly low-income, immigrant-origin, and first-generation students in NYC, on their path to higher education. I actively sought experiences that deepened my understanding of the education system and allowed me to assist students more effectively. Seeing many students struggle with administrative college requirements, I pursued opportunities to work in the registrar’s office, where I gained valuable insight into the enrollment process. This experience sparked my interest in admissions, which I can explore in my current role. Networking and conducting informational interviews played a key role in securing these opportunities, and I’m grateful to have had incredible mentors guiding me along the way.
What is your favorite part of your current job position?
I just started in late January, but I love being one of the first points of contact for prospective students exploring NYU. I especially enjoy supporting non-traditional transfer students - CCTOP truly offers a second chance, and it's rewarding to help them navigate the process and see new possibilities for their future.
Do you have any advice for current or prospective students?
My advice for current or prospective students is simple: if you have questions, ask! The Education Studies program truly fueled my passion and encouraged me to think critically about the world and education. I found myself craving more, so I visited professors during office hours to dive deeper into topics or have conversations beyond class materials. I also discovered that professors, particularly in Education Studies, were open to collaboration and research opportunities, so don’t hesitate to ask for them. I’d also recommend taking advantage of your position as an NYU student to network, use your curiosity to conduct informational interviews, and learn about others' career paths. Ask about their day-to-day, the skills you should develop, and how to prepare for your future job. Once upon a time, there was no such thing as a job as a college advisor, but now, with education becoming more accessible and expanding, it's very common to see college advisors in most high schools. This shift in opportunities is exciting, and it’s inspiring to see how the field continues to evolve, making it possible for students to pursue careers that weren’t available or imaginable in the past.