Maria Jose earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with minors in Child Advocacy & Policy and Social Work from Montclair State University.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Maria Jose is a graduate assistant (GA) working with MSU Registered Student Organizations for the Office of Spartan Experiences. In this position, Maria Jose advises and supports MSU student organizations and she assists with Office of Spartan Experiences programming.

Why did Maria Jose choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“During the SPD weekend, I was impressed by the passion and commitment toward serving students and the campus community. This inspired me to choose the SAA Program at MSU, where I hope to work alongside like-minded colleagues and mentors who share my drive to improve Higher Education.”

J.C completed a bachelor’s degree in Film Studies with a minor in Creative Writing from Oakland University.

As an SAA MA student at MSU, J.C has a graduate assistantship with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where she works as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In this role, J.C supervises a team of resident assistants (RAs) and is developing skills in crisis management and residential leadership.

Why did J.C choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU due to how much I fell in love with the program when I visited during Spartan Preview Days. I immediately felt like I was at home here and everyone in the program has made me feel welcome.”

Isabella has a bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Psychology and a minor in Chicane & Latine Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

As a first-year SAA MA student at MSU, Isabella serves as a graduate assistant for MSU’s Honors College where she is assisting with student affairs initiatives centered on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB).

Why did Isabella choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“The SAA MA Program makes it clear how much they care about and support students in the program. I am excited to meet and work with my cohort and professional staff!”

Emily Gerber earned her bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri where she double majored in Psychological & Brain Sciences and Organization & Strategic Management, and she minored in Economics.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Emily is a graduate assistant with MSU’s Honors College. In this role, Emily advises student organizations within the Honors College, assists with planning and implementing Honors College Programming, and facilitates leadership development for Honors College student leaders.

Why did Emily choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA Program at MSU because of the environment created during visit weekend by the 1st- and 2nd-year cohorts and the way the faculty took the time to get to know all of the prospective students during visit weekend.”

Rimma completed her bachelor’s degree program in Translational Studies and Interpretation with a minor in German from Siberian Federal University in Krasnoyarsk, Russia.

As a first-year SAA MA student at MSU, Rimma is a graduate assistant serving as an Assistant Community Director (ACD) with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS). In this role, Rimma supervises a team of resident assistants, advises a student residence hall senate, and assists the Community Director in creating a stronger community within the residence halls.

Why did Rimma choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA Program because the coordinators provided an amazing opportunity to connect to the program and future cohort while being the world apart.”

Yexin earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Iowa State University.

Why did Yexin choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I liked the curriculum layout and the amount of hands-on experience I could get throughout the program. When I came for Spartan Preview Days, all the staff members were so welcoming, caring, and friendly.”

Jakaira is an MSU alum and has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in African Studies.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Jakaira is a graduate assistant with MSU’s Office of Spartan Experiences. In her role, Jakaira creates and facilitates leadership training workshops, selects, trains, and advises student leaders, creates accessible web resources, assists in the planning and implementation of campus-wide leadership conferences, and participates in departmental activities.

Why did Jakaira choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because I was a part of undergrad at MSU and I worked under a lot of great professionals such as Dr. Joy Hannibal, who made MSU more of a home for me, so I felt it would be the best place to further my education.”

Laurel earned her bachelor’s degree from Albion College where she majored in Psychological Science and minored in Kinesiology.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Laurel serves as a graduate assistant with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where she works as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In this role, Laurel supports and supervises a team of resident assistants in MSU’s residence halls.

Why did Laurel choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because it immediately felt like home. From the moment I expressed interest in the program, SAA students and faculty were reaching out to me and offering support and answers to questions I had. I’m so happy to have found a community here!”

Taylor has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in North American Studies from Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Taylor holds a graduate assistantship as an Assistant Community Director (ACD) with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS). As an ACD, Taylor is responsible for the general supervision of her designated Resident Assistant staff and supporting the building Community Director in the planning, implementation and evaluation of a comprehensive community and student development program for the community.

Why did Taylor choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“From the moment I stepped on campus I knew that I belonged at Michigan State. I felt welcome when I came to Preview Days and made strong connections with students and faculty. I was also drawn to the challenging and progressive academic experiences, as well as the important practical work exposure the program offers.”

Emiley earned her bachelor’s degree from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis where she majored in Sociology & Communications Studies and minored in Global & Intercultural Studies.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Emiley serves as the graduate assistant for Leadership and Advising for Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS). In her role, Emiley is an advisor to the Residence Hall Association (RHA) and is responsible for creating training and development activities.

Why did Emiley choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because I wanted to be challenged academically and exercise classroom concepts in a real-world experience. I felt that MSU’s program would best allow me to integrate my undergrad background of sociology. The variety of assistantships, campus, and curriculum drew me to MSU!”

Heidi earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut where she majored in Political Science and Latino & Latin American Studies.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Heidi is a graduate assistant with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where she works with Residential Learning Programs. In this assistantship, Heidi coordinates initiatives for the Spartan Navigator residential learning program in collaboration with on-campus departments, centers, and institutes. She also contributes to the University’s strategic plan to improve graduation rates by planning, implementing, and evaluating programs for second-year students that address topics such as career planning, leadership development, conflict resolution, and wellness.

Why did Heidi choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program because, in interactions with program faculty and students, I felt welcomed and was easily able to envision myself as a part of the SAA family. As a first-generation student, having a supportive community to learn from and with was something important to me in a program, and I found that here!”

Matt is an MSU alum and has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Philosophy.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Matt has a graduate assistantship with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where he works as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In his role, Matt supervises, guides, and assists his staff of resident assistants to help promote safety and build community in the residence hall and Neighborhood.

Why did Matt choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I love being involved with the university and working with students, so this seemed like the perfect fit for me!”

Serenity earned her bachelor’s degree in Criminology & Justice Studies and Sociology from California State University, San Marcos.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Serenity is the Communications graduate assistant for Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS). In this assistantship, Serenity coordinates and executes events to support students living on campus and promote the department and its values. She also supervises the Live On Campus Crew and assists in identifying new opportunities for expansion/growth of the REHS message to underserved communities.

Why did Serenity choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because they provide a fun and safe environment to explore different opportunities for experiential learning.”

Kennedy is an MSU alum and earned her bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance.

Why did Kennedy choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“MSU has a commitment to DEI that is present throughout the institution. That was of high importance to me when looking for a program!”

Andrew completed his bachelor’s degree in History with a minor in African American Studies at West Chester University of Pennsylvania.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Andrew serves as a graduate assistant with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where he works as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In his role, Andrew oversees residence education initiatives and supervises a staff of resident assistants.

Why did Andrew choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA program because it immediately made me feel at home when I first came to campus and everyone else in the program made it feel so welcoming and inviting!”

Kylee earned her bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies with a minor in Communications from California State University, San Marcos.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Kylee is the Recruitment, Selection, and Training graduate assistant for Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS). In her assistantship, Kylee assists in the recruitment and training of undergraduate, graduate, and professional candidates/staff for REHS.

Why did Kylee choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because I wanted a program that allowed me to gain practical experience in the field while learning more about how to best support students in a university setting.”

Kamola completed her bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature at Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Kamola has a graduate assistantship with the MSU Writing Center where she works as a Graduate Coordinator. In this role, Kamola works to build new relationships with campus units and fosters existing campus relationships both on campus and in digital spaces.

Why did Kamola choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I am excited about advocating for education and self-development, combating injustices, and promoting diverse and equitable student opportunities.”

Andrew earned their bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in History from Oakland University in Michigan.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Andrew has a graduate assistantship with Residence Education & Housing Services (REHS) where they work as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In this role, Andrew supervises a staff of resident assistants and supports the Community Director in caring for the residence hall community.

Why did Andrew choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because student success is near to my heart and I have the opportunity to not only learn about how to help students succeed in a great environment but actively work towards that both in and out of class.”

Chloe is an MSU alum and earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Relations & Policy and History with a minor in Jewish Studies.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Chloe is a graduate assistant with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where she serves as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In her assistantship, Chloe serves the University Apartments Community and supervises resident assistants in the community!

Why did Chloe choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I developed a passion for student affairs during my undergraduate career and I knew I wanted to pursue my Master’s in Higher Education. The SAA program at MSU is amazing, and throughout the application process it became clear that this is where I was meant to go for grad school.”

Justin completed his bachelor’s degree at Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan where he majored in Political Science and minored in History and Psychology.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Justin has a graduate assistantship with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In this role, Justin supervises a staff of resident assistants and assists the Community Director in caring for the overall residential community.

Why did Justin choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“MSU felt like home when I toured for Spring Preview Day. The rigorous academic environment and hands-on experience in student affairs work was what sold me. Go Green!”

Hannah earned her bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University where she majored in Public Policy and minored in Nonprofit Management.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Hannah is the graduate assistant for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) for MSU Student Life and Engagement. In her assistantship, Hannah supports the Office of Cultural and Academic Transition, Gender and Sexuality Campus Center, Women*s Student Services, Student Veterans Resource Center, and Student Parent Resource Center, as well as Dr. Genyne Royal with various projects and programming.

Why did Hannah choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I wanted a graduate program that would allow me to gain direct experience in the field while further grounding my practices in theory and literature. “

Julia earned her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Secondary Education with a minor in Psychology from Grand Valley State University.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Julia has a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Office of Admissions where she works as an Admissions Associate. In this role, Julia leads admissions presentations to students and families during the ‘First Year Prospective Programs (FPP)’, works with admissions counselors on specialized projects, and assists prospective students and families with the admissions process.  

Why did Julia choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I am excited for the diverse opportunities available within the program and on campus to gain experience working in higher education. I was drawn to the sense of community that exists among the 1st- and 2nd-year students and am eager to learn alongside our faculty and my cohort.”