ARTURO SOTO is majoring in history and secondary education with a minor in anthropology and actively participates in the Honors in the Humanities Program. Beyond excelling in academics, Arturo serves as an administrative assistant and post-secondary advisor. A true leader on campus, he holds the position of president for the Committee for Disabled Students at Queens College and plays a crucial role in the leadership of the CUNY Coalition for Students with Disabilities.
“At 17 years old, I lost my vision, and dreams like higher education slipped through my grasp every day as my independence was threatened. Queens College appeared on my rugged path like a hidden gem and offered me an opportunity to be the better human and student I always knew I could be. Queens College allows its students to explore interests that birth new passions. I never imagined I would be passionate about anthropology, much less be an honors student. I thought my disability had stolen that from me, but Queens College offered me an environment to triumph over adversity. I am grateful every day for my scholarship, Queens College, and its donors, who thanks to their generous support, give students like myself the ability to pursue their passions without the inherent fear of financial hardship.”
DJIEDJOM ANGE LIONEL GBONKOU is a senior majoring in computer science and minoring in health sciences. He’s an exceptional member of
the Transfer Honors Program (THP), not only excelling academically but also making a real impact. Djiedjom has played a pivotal role in the Summer Bridge Program. As a peer mentor, he empowered and guided participants through one-on-one mentoring, managed effective communication with mentees, and collaborated with a cohesive team, shaping the program’s scope, impact, and success. He is pursuing a career in software engineering, which will allow him to continue to shape the future of technology.
“Queens College has an exceptionally demanding computer science program that has not only tested my limits but also has propelled me to reach new heights. Joining the THP has been an absolute gift, not only for the invaluable financial support it provides but also for the remarkable sense of community it offers. During moments of uncertainty, I’ve consistently felt a strong support network by my side. I am profoundly thankful and eager to pay forward the investments made in me, fostering both my academic and professional journey.”
MINJAE KIM is a biology major who is now working as a nurse practitioner and completing evening courses to meet medical school prerequisites. He is a student senator at large at Queens College and holds leadership positions in various healthcare organizations.
“I chose Queens College because I want to make the world a better place through caring and education for others. Queens College provides high-quality teaching for students, and I feel certain that a Queens College education will help me to reach my goals. Thanks to my scholarship, I was able to do so without incurring any further financial burdens and am one step closer to my dreams.”
ADRIAN DE LA CRUZ is a senior in the Transfer Honors Program, majoring in design. He has had the opportunity to be an intern at The Point Community Development, Google, and Yankee Stadium. He is currently working as a graphic designer at the NYC Department of Buildings. Adrian is volunteering at the Darkroom Lab in the art department and at the same time is developing new skills as a photographer with his professors. “The opportunities that stemmed from my program at Queens College kept my career goals alive and over the years, my passion for design grew,” he says.
“I gained great experiences and incredible knowledge from my professors. Wherever I go, I will always be grateful for those who provided me with my scholarship and assistance during my time at Queens College.”
SUMAYA KABIR is a senior majoring in English and a member of the Transfers Honors Program (THP). Sumaya has worked as a college peer advisor, helping a caseload of more than 300 New York City public school graduates prepare for their post-secondary plans. One highlight of her experience was helping high school graduates enroll in CUNY schools and transition into college. Additionally, she has offered her volunteer services to New York City Men Teach, a program that recruits quality educators of color from marginalized groups. Sumaya helped to organize their annual kickoff event for the 2022–2023 cycle. Her ultimate career goal is to work in the field of education, and she plans on pursuing graduate school after college to help reach her goal.
“Being a scholarship recipient has benefited me because I am able to continue my education without worrying about finances. Additionally, being a part of THP has helped me navigate Queens College more easily as a transfer student and has given me access to many resources. I am grateful for the support and opportunities that have been given to me as a transfer student at Queens College, and I look forward to a great college experience.”
JACKLYN DIEL is a senior majoring in physical education. She is one of the captains of the Queens College women’s soccer team, as well as the president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. Under her leadership, the committee has been able to organize many events for student-athletes and the community. In October, she organized a breast cancer walk on campus that raised more than $2,000 for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. In the future, she hopes to be able to stay involved in sports and community initiatives while working as a physical education teacher.
“I chose Queens College because of the opportunity and scholarship I was given to play Division II while pursuing my degree. The physical education program at Queens College is very well respected and is a program I am proud to be a part of. The athletic department, coaches, and my teammates have always supported me in everything that I do, for which I can’t thank them enough. Attending Queens College and being involved in the athletics department has made my college experience enjoyable.”
RIYAHAUNA HEADLEY is a senior at Queens College participating in the accelerated master’s program. While pursuing her bachelor’s degree in urban studies with minors in cities and social medicine and honors in the social sciences, she is also completing her master’s in urban affairs. She serves as the secretary of the Student Association, the social media director for the Committee for Disabled Students, and a peer mentor coordinator for the First Year Experience Program.
“I chose Queens College because I knew that I would be able to explore my interests and learn from the environment I was in. I was drawn to our motto, “We learn so that we may serve” and continue to practice this daily. I am thankful for the support that I have received while studying here at Queens College. Without the support of amazing faculty, staff, peers, and scholarships, I cannot imagine that I would have been able to say that I could have a college experience and complete my bachelor’s and master’s degree within four years.”
SAPIR SHARONI joined the Transfer Honors Program after completing her associate degree in science from LaGuardia Community College with high honors. She majors in biology, acts as a peer tutor and mentor for the Kessler Scholars Program, and volunteers as an EMT. As part of her honors track, Sapir joined a research laboratory studying cellular antioxidant defense mechanisms. After graduation, she hopes to continue to graduate school and integrate into the healthcare system.
“As an international student, my access to resources is minimal. The Transfer Honors Program allowed me to continue my education and keep moving toward my goals by giving me access to vital financial and academic support. I was able to volunteer, participate in research, and achieve my academic goals because of this investment in me, and I hope that one day I will be able to do the same for other students.”