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The Scholar
Honors Scholar Program
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Editorial
Editor-in-Chief Co-Editors
Athena
Program Director Student Writers
Emily Movsumova
Rachel Malinkovich
Niharika Ojha
Laila Salem
Anvitha Tammisetti
Susan Barile, Ph D
Billye Albro
Isayah Charcopa
Alif Kazi
Valentino Sella
Isabella Shalumov
Daedalus
Program Director Student Writers
Melissa Lynch, M A
Christelle Diab
Natalie Gallo
Noel Sarker
Muse Nursing
Program Director Student Writers
Program Director Student Writers
Roosevelt
Program Director Student Writers
Yalow
Program Director Student Writers
Dara Meyers-Kingsley, M A
Ruby Anahory
Victory Ogunnaya
Carolyn Sun, Ph.D., R.N., A.N.P.-B.C., F.A.A.N.
Abigail Cortez-Alcantara
Rebecca Gould
Grace Yu
Elise B. Jaffe, J.D., M.P.A., M.Phil.
Hannah Amar
India Butler
Cecilia Castellon
Anvitha Tammisetti
Janette Gomos Klein, Ph.D.
Jeruseth (Jeru) Dizon
Rachel Malinkovich
Niharika Ojha
From the Editor
Dear readers,
We welcome you to another edition of The Scholar Magazine In this second issue, you will find exciting announcements from the highly anticipated reinstatement of the Athena program, an art spotlight on Isabella Shalumov, an inside look into the deep literary analyses of Athena students, and an interview about Evelyn Gallegos’s summer abroad in Greece! Daedalus presents new leadership groups committed to uplifting their diverse community and a dive into the intersection between computer science and art. A current nursing scholar sheds a personal perspective on how this program was the right fit, as well as the Nursing program ’ s community-building seminars! Turning to the Muse pages, we feature museum exhibits that Muses have attended this past year, as well as an art spotlight on current Muse scholar, Ruby Anahory. We also have an amazing interview with a current and graduated Roosevelt alum, Jeremy Montrose and Colleen Denmon. Yalow's pages detail the enrichment and value of unconventional minors accompanying STEM majors And finally, a freshman Yalow details lessons learned in their first year and adjustment to college from a personal perspective
Thank you to all the contributors listed on the opposite page. As always, the magazine is made by scholars for scholars; we hope to continue to showcase the talented, intelligent, and creative scholars who make Hunter so special.
I welcome you all to explore the magazine If you wish to be featured in the magazine’s future issues, we would love to have you! Please reach out by email if interested.
To all the stellar scholars reading: have a productive summer and a wonderful semester ahead!
Happy reading, Emily Movsumova Editor-in-Chief, The Scholar
Yalow ‘23
Emily.movsumova47@myhunter.cuny.edu
askedaroundandDr.Barile,theprogram’sdirector, confirmedthattheadministrationhadpausedthe program.”
Whenthe“pause”occurred,manystudentswere confusedaboutwhatitmeant.Somebelievedthey wouldbecutfromfundingtheHunterHonorsScholar Program,whileotherswereunsureofwhatthe“pause” meantforthefutureoftheHumanities.Regardlessof theiranxiety,theAthenasknewtheyhadtoband togethertopreventthepausefrombecominga termination.
KaziandagroupofotherAthenaScholarscreateda petitiontoadvocateforthepreservationofthe program,whichtheyseeasanimportantsignof
themultivalentcareerimpactsthataneducationinthe humanitiescanhaveonundergraduatestudents. Philosophers,lawyers,membersofthePeaceCorps, psychologists,socialworkers,andhistorians–allformer Athenascholarswhoworkinsideandoutsidethe humanities–advocatedthroughtestimony.Nothing, however,wouldhavereinstatedtheprogramwithout theapprovalofPresidentCantor.
Dr.CantorbelievesintheimpactoftheHumanities andtheinfluenceitcanhaveonallprofessions,andall membersofthehumanspecies.Wearegratefulto considerthereinstatementasnotjustareinstatement ofanHonorsprogram,butalsoanacknowledgmentof whattheHumanitiescanprovidetooureverydaylives.
AthenaArtist Spotlight
IsabellaShalumov‘25 AthenaScholar
Totherightisadisplayoftheartworkthatwasdone for“TheSilkRoadFestival"atMyWayChild& YouthDevelopmentCenter,whichisaNonprofit MulticulturalOrganizationthatoffersclassesfor childrenandyoungadults
Thefestivalcontainedartworksofdifferentmediums, choreographeddances,andspeechespresentedtohonor thesecountriesandtheircultures.Participantsinthis festivalwereawardedbycongressmembers,local politicians,andotherpublicfigures
Thefestivalhadapproximately175participantsfrom Azerbaijan(myhome-country),Georgia,Mongolia, Russia,Ukraine,China,India,Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan,Turkey,andothercountries
Participatinginthisfestivalwas particularlyrewarding,asitdeepened myconnectiontomycultureand providedacreativeandartisticwayto engagewithit.MyGorskiheritagehas hadaprofoundinfluenceonmyart, inspiringmetotakepartinnumerous exhibitionsthatexploremycultural identity.Throughtheseexperiences,my bondwithmyheritagehasonlygrown stronger.
Myartwork,shownabove,wasdone withcoloredpencilandwasdrawnto representaMongolianmanwhowasa traderwithintheSilkRoad.
Iwonfirstplacewiththisartworkinthe festivalandreceivedacitationfromour localcongressmanlikealloftheother participants.
AthenaBookReview
use achado
“ abookaboutahousethatwasnotahouse andadreamthatwasnodreamatall.”
“Thepastneverleavesus;there’salways atmospheretoconsider;youcanwoundairas cleanlyasyoucanwoundflesh.”
IntheDreamHouseisapowerfulandcreative narrative of the author’s experience in an abusivequeerrelationship.We,asreadersare transportedintotheDreamHouse,andmeet thewomaninthedreamhouseasshebecomes controlling,sadistic,andmanipulative
Atits core,IntheDreamHouseconfrontstheoftentaboosubjectofdomesticviolencewithinqueer relationshipsandtargetsthelackoflanguage surrounding it, which leads to difficulty in identifyingorlabelingthisabuse
Machado breaks the conventional rules of memoir,asshetellsherstorythroughdifferent chapters,eachfocusingonadifferentstyle: horror, folklore, fantasy, different literary motifs, and even a choose-your-ownadventure,experimentingwiththelimitsand boundariesHerhauntedyetlyricaltonemeans
thatsomepartsofthismemoirareincredibly heavyandsomearealmostwhimsical,leaving you waiting and wanting more. This unconventional approach to memoir is what makes In the Dream House so powerful: it mirrors the surreal, fractured experience of livingthroughabuseandwhatthismeansfor yourmemory,yourbody,yourrelationships, andyourbrain.
Machadowrote,“Placesareneverjustplacesin apieceofwriting.Iftheyare,theauthorhas failed Settingisnotinert Itisactivatedby pointofview.”Inthissense,shesucceededin creatingasettingsofantastical,sopersonal, thatthereaderfeelsasiftheyarewatchinga playunfold-anunfortunateone-butoneyou cannottakeyoureyesoffofallthesame.
-IsabellaShalumov‘25
Inhermemoir,IntheDreamHouse,Carmen MariaMachadotakesthephysicalsettingof thedreamhouseandusesitasatemporalspace fullofmetaphoricalrealmstoreflectonand examinetheperiodwhenshewasinanabusive queerrelationship.Thememoirisbrokenup intooverahundredshortchaptersthatareall beautifulshortworksontheirown Machado usesthememoirtowriteaboutherlifeand exploreherinteriorityShealsousesittowrite aboutthehistoryofdomesticabusefacedby lesbian and queer women, and to add her memoirtothearchivestating:
“I enter into the archive that domestic abuse betweenpartnerswhoshareagenderidentityis
Carmen Maria Machado’s memoir, In the Dream House, explores queer abuse and power in queer relationships through a fantasized DreamHouse.Machadoturnsmaterialobjects, a home in Indiana, and her abusive exgirlfriend, into imagined spaces: the Dream House and the Woman in the Dream House, respectively. Machado herself turns into the ghost in the Dream House By imagining the material home and turning real people into symbols, Machado’s memoir resonates with a larger audience: abused people are everywhere, regardlessofgender,sexuality,andage
both possible and not uncommon, and it can look something like this I speak into silence I tossthestoneofmystoryintoavastcrevice…”
Machado takes the conventional structure of memoir and flips it on its head in her book. Such a prominent example of this is the chapter “Dream House as Choose Your Own Adventure”whereitbeginswithascenariothat she experienced and gives the reader several actions to choose from, yet they all end up at the same place She does this to show the cycle of abuse and how hard it is to break out of and she does this in such a creative structure and formforamemoir.
-BillyeAlbro‘26
Shewritesmanydifferentworldsthatallallude to power imbalances, the most notable being the story of the squid and the Queen She uses the placement of characters to symbolize the state of her own relationship and who holds power, while also including other factors such as desire and what can be extracted from individuals in a relationship. The power the woman in the Dream House has is what lures MachadoinandMachado'squalities–especially her intelligence–are what draw the woman to Machado.
-AlifKazi‘26
My Greece Adventure
Interview by Isayah Charcopa ’25 Athena Scholar
as students have the opportunity to tra oss the world and explore different cultu m our very own Athena Scholar Evelyn ‘27 (they/them) who had the chance to visit Greece this summer and their adventure visiting the cradle of old Western civilization!
Q: Why choose Greece for the Study Abroad Program this summer?
It was relevant to my major in Classical Studies and my interest in attending classes with Professor Marlene Hennessy. I figured that with a chance to visit Greece, I would be a fool to pass on this opportunity.
Q: What exactly did the Greece Study Abroad Program encompass?
I wanted to embrace the culture that Greece provided. I hadn’t traveled much before and was excited to get the opportunity for the experience Besides my experience in classes involving poetry taught by Professor Hennessy, I wanted to enjoy reading the classics from actual Greek translations. Reading classics like The Odyssey and Ovid’s Metamorphosis. The classes in Greece were more seminarstyle and all the attendees were there to learn and take in culture and ancient history
Evelyn Gallegos at the Parthenon
Q: Besides the academic aspect, what else did you do in Greece?
Along with classes, I had the chance to do some sightseeing. In my own time, I made lots of friends and many connections by exploring the island of Lesbos. On the first day, I visited Athens after arriving by plane and took an overnight ferry to Lesbos From then on, I was looking forward to what I would stumble upon
Q: What does a typical day during the study abroad program look like?
Every day was a different day! The joy of being abroad was an amazing experience. I especially loved visiting a little hangout spot called Time For Coffee with my classmate getting coffee. With classes being about 3 hours long, a nice cup of coffee with friends is just what I needed. After classes, me and my classmates would walk across a nearby beach and the main streets of the town.
Q: Would you recommend visiting Greece? Do you have any tips and tricks for navigating the study abroad process?
I highly recommend it! Traveling and studying abroad is a great experience to take up as both a student and as a person I also advise you to check in with financial aid to look at any possible opportunities to help finance your trip. Traveling alone to another country can be scary, but you are traveling with other students so you will never be alone.
Q: What was your biggest takeaway from this experience?
I guess I wanted to get out of my comfort zone. In addition, I admired the old texts of the old world and I developed an appreciation for archaeology. Nevertheless, the experience offered everyone the opportunity to grow and try something new.
RomanticPoetryPaper
AnexcerptfromapaperonLordByron'sManfredfor ProfessorAmyMoormanRobbins’sEnglishcourse byValentinoSella‘27
AthenaScholar
“ MymotherEarth!
AndyoufreshbreakingDay,andyou,yeMountains, Whyareyebeautiful?Icannotloveye Andthou,thebrighteyeoftheuniverse, Thatopenestoverall,anduntoall
Artadelight-thoushinestnotonmyheart”(127-13)
Manfredalsoseemstobeintouchwithanotheraspect oftheWordsworthiansublime:understandingthat thereismorethanjustthephysicalworld.InTintern Abbey,memoryoftheWyelaysthespeaker“asleepin body”andallowsthemtobecome“alivingsoul”(lines 46-7).Thisprocessisdecidedlyincomplete,(ourblood andbreathcanonlybecome“Almostsuspended”)but Wordsworthstilldescribesitasajoyousthing.
reconciletheexternalpartsofhisbeingwiththenewly cultivatedspiritualrichnessheacquiredthrough sublimetranscendenceByimagininghissister Dorothyasayoungerversionofhimself,whose relationshipwithnatureispurelysensual,Wordsworth isabletofindequalloveforboththecorporealand intellectualsidesofhumankind
Manfredhasasimilarunderstandingofthedistinction, buthisseparationofsoulandbodyisdescribedasa repulsive,isolatingprocessThehunterremarksthat Manfred’s“mindandbodyarealikeunfittotrusteach other”(212-3),andtheherohimselflamentsbeing “halfdust,halfdeity,alikeunfit/Tosinkorsoar” (1.2.40-1).Manfred’ssufferingatthisrealizationin whichWordsworthfindsreliefanddelightspeakstothe waysthatthetwomeninreallifemayhaveappearedto Byronasoneanother'sinverse.Wordsworthwasof non-aristocraticbirthbutrosetosocialandpolitical prominencethroughhiswritings,whereasByronwas anaristocratinchildhoodwhosewritingsonlydistanced himfromthecountryofhisbirthWordsworthbecame poetlaureate,ByronleftEnglandaltogether.
Wordsworth’srelationshipwithhissisterwas exclusivelypositive,andTinternAbbeyallowshimto
Byron’sfriendshipwithhissister,ontheotherhand, wasscandal-fodder,andincestuousornot,anylove betweenthemwaslikelymadedifficultbythegyreof rumorsthatconstantlysurroundedthem.Andso,in Manfred,theprotagonist’sincestuousrelationshipwith hisdeadsisteronlyemphasizesthechasmthatlies betweenthebodyandthesoul.Manfred’slovefor Astarteisstronginspiritbuttabooinbody,andleads himtoseeallhumansastrapped,“Contendingwithlow wantsandloftywill”(1.2.44)untildeath.Manfred’s clearsympathyforothersandacuteawarenessofhis dualitybetraysaconnectiontotheWordsworthian sublime,buthisnumbnesstonaturalbeautyandhis loathingofhisownmemoryindicatethatByronsaw sublimityasmorecomplicatedandlesssingularthan WordsworthmakesitseemManfred’ssufferingisnot becausehecannotaccesssublimity,butratherbecause heisburdenedbyanegativeversionofit,theonly versionthathischeckeredpastallowshimtoaccess
The Daedalus Student Leadership Committee
by Natalie Gallo ‘26 Daedalus Scholar
In 2023, the Daedalus Honors Program welcomed Professor Melissa Lynch from the Computer Science Department as the new director after the retirement of the former director and program founder Michael Zamanksy.
In this new chapter for the program, Director Lynch has many hopes for Daedalus. One of these was the student-founded Leadership committee. Scholars felt the program lacked community and the presence of peers felt almost invisible After conversations with Director Lynch, a group of scholars took the initiative to revive the program So in March 2024, the Daedalus Student Leadership Committee was born
BeingapartoftheDaedalusasa committeememberisveryinspiring andgetsmeexcitedbecauseI'mable toseethecommunitygrowbeforemy eyesandhelpasmuchasIcan.
-TamannaChowdhury,Daedalus‘25
Iwishtobuildaninclusive communitywhereDaedalus studentsarecomfortableconfiding ineachotherthroughoutour academicyearsandbeyond. -LinaTran,Daedalus‘26
In under a year of being active, results are evident The student group successfully managed in bring in more engagement compared to the prior year
Establishing open communication channels like the Daedalus Discord server, Daedalus students now have a modern and casual way of getting into contact with each other for professional, academic, or social purposes.
The committee planned and executed a Welcome Party for the incoming and returning scholars, which received immense participation with over half of the scholars from each of the four-year cohorts in attendance
In November and December 2024, the committee is hosted the program ’ s first Fall Hackathon. The theme is The Nightmare before Christmas, where students can compete in tracks relating to major holidays seen in the movie such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Halloween!
Outside of major events, the committee is diligent in providing scholars a safe and welcoming space to study in the Daedalus Lounge. Snacks, decor, and supplies are available for scholars at any time.
We hope to see Daedalus flourish in these next few semesters with more events, workshops, and see some Daedalus exclusive merchandise!
#EEB414
Artist in the Making
by Christelle Diab ‘28 Daedalus Scholar
If I were to tell you that every Computer Science major is an artist in the making, would you believe me?
Coding is a tool like an artist's charcoal pencil or paintbrush. It all comes down to how the coder chooses to execute their way of thought to create a product that accurately represents their skills and creativity. I believe there are two different aspects of what makes a Computer Science major an artist in the making. The first is mastering the skill of writing clean, organized code, and the second is the creative process of deciding what to create and how to approach the problem.
In any coding language, the skill of having organized code is how you choose to present your way of thought and design, which requires creativity and problem-solving skills. I'm not saying it's always necessary to have a neat thought process; realistically, when you're first attempting to solve a problem or want to create a project of your own, you are likely not focusing on the organization as much as on the initial approach.
Similar to how artists create preliminary drawings to identify key elements and define their subject, coders also create preliminaries, such as flowcharts, to draw out their code when planning complex logic and brainstorming solutions to help visualize their approach. Other methods of organization include creating functions, classes, comments, and writing pseudocode. Initially, it may be messy, but it creates a more organized approach that makes the final product more readable and aesthetically pleasing.
For those just beginning, like myself, you might be asking when you'll reach that artist title. Not everyone starts with an innate artistic talent. You first need to learn the syntax and then how to write in this new language. However, once you've mastered the fundamentals and built a solid coding foundation, solving problems becomes an opportunity for creativity. Learning the different syntaxes for every coding language makes it easier to express oneself once the basics are mastered, as it becomes more about making decisions and designing systems using various patterns, algorithms, and concepts. If you're interested in using your creativity even more, then, I highly recommend you check out web design and game development.
The beauty of coding is often overshadowed by the struggle, but it is the struggle that makes programmers artists in the making. Just as it takes practice, time, and tons of sketches for artists to master their work, it will also take Computer Science students not just a lot of time but a bunch of Expo markers and scrap paper.
Helpful Tip: As I began my coding journey, I found it extremely helpful to map out my code on paper before transferring it to my computer
In an increasingly competitive field like computer science, the Daedalus Scholar Program at Hunter College offers a unique pathway for students to excel. With specialized resources, a supportive community, and endless opportunities for professional growth, Daedalus Scholars are not just learningthey’re leading the way in shaping the future of technology.
For students passionate about technology and innovation, the Daedalus Scholar Program is more than just a stepping stone-it’s a launchpad to a meaningful and impactful career
Unlocking Opportunities in the Tech World
InternshipandCareerPrep
DaedalusScholarsgainaccesstoexclusivementorship programswithtoptechcompaniesinNYC Fromresume reviewstomockinterviews,theyareequippedtostandout inthejobmarket.
HackathonsandPortfolios
Scholarsparticipateinhackathons,buildinginnovative projectsandshowcasingtheirskillstopotentialemployers
TuitionSupportandHousing
Withtuitionawardsandpreferredhousingaccess,Daedalus Scholarscanfocusontheiracademicandprofessionalgoals withoutfinancialstress
Community & Curriculum
By Noel Sarker ‘28
“The care of the future is mine.” - Hunter College Motto
Daedalus Scholars take our school’s mission one step further by using technology to improve the quality of life for generations to come
Being a Daedalus Scholar isn’t just about academic success--it’s about joining a community.
Collaborative events like tech talks, nature walks, and museum trips help build a lifelong connections with like-minded people. Faculty mentors and advisors ensure every scholar has the guidance they need to succeed.
Daedalus Scholars develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and networking skills that are essential in any industry
They are taught to approach challenges creatively and strategically
With a focus on computations thinking, they gain skills that are increasingly valuable across fields, from engineering to medicine.
Interested in becoming a Daedalus Scholar? Visit
https://hunter.cuny.edu/ho nors-scholars-programs/ to learn more and take the first step toward joining this prestigious program.
Daedalus Scholar
by Victory Ogunnaya ‘25 Muse Scholar
TheMuseScholarsarealwaysbusy withexploringthelively,diverse,and thoughtprovoking artinNewYork.
Weinviteyoutoaninsidelookinto whateachcohorthasbeenuptothis pastsemester
Thefreshmanstartedthe semesterstrongwithaprecollegeoutingtothe GuggenheimMuseumtosee theJennyHolzershow.
Thisexhibitionpresenteda reimaginationofJenny Holzer’slandmark1989 installationatthe Guggenheim
Climbingallsixrampsofthe FrankLloydWright-designed rotundatothebuilding’sapex, thesite-specificinstallation transformedthebuildingwith adisplayofscrollingtexts.
Thesophomoresgottogether duringanoutingtotheAsia SocietyMuseumtoseeMadayin, ashowofaboriginalbarkpaintings fromAustralia
Thisexhibitionfeaturedaboriginal designsontreebarkwhichwere giftedtothemuseum The patternsintheworkareinspiredby ancestralland. Theyweremadeby, andtheshowwascuratedby, Yolŋuknowledgeholdersfrom ArnhemLandinNorthern Australia.
ThejuniorswenttotheAmericasSociety GallerytoseetheshowTheAppearance: ArtoftheAsianDiasporainLatin AmericaandtheCaribbean. Theygottomeetoneoftheartistsinthe show,CecileChong,whotalkedabout herartandthecontextoftheexhibition. Thisshowhadworkfromthe1940stothe presentshown,withthirteenartistsfrom fiftydifferentcountriesincludedinit. Mediumslikephotography,sculpture, paintingsandmorewereondisplay
Inthephotoabove,CecileChong(2ndfromthe right)ispicturedalongsidethejuniorMuses Born andraisedinEcuadortoChineseparents,shehas closetiestoHunterandCUNY ShemovedtoNew Yorkin1983tostudyartatQueensCollege.She wentontogetan MAinEducationfromHunter andthenanMFAfromParsons,whereshestudied withProf.Meyers-Kingsley.
MuseScholars arealsobusy planningforthe upcomingSpring MuseshowcaseinApril 2025 Thetitleofthe ShowcaseisNightatthe Muse-euminspiredbyacouple ofmoviesonthistheme.
Whilestudentsprepare,weincluded photosfromthelasttwoyears’ showcasesinspiredbybooksandTV shows:7o’clockMuse(topthree photos)andGoodNight,Muse (bottomtwophotos)
HUG,GoodNightMuse2023
MOON
Muse Art Spotlight
by Ruby Anahory ‘28
Muse Scholar
About Me
My name is Ruby Anahory and I am a Muse Scholar Freshman My major is in Studio Art and I take great interest in painting, mixed media and collage
Why Put Your Work Out There?
Exhibiting my artwork allows me to share a part of my identity and my envisioning of the world. Art is a language, a form of visual communication that brings people together and gives a voice to what often goes unheard. Seeing others share their passion has inspired me to do the same, and I hope that doing so will inspire many more.
To all creatives reading this: it is very important and uplifting to be able to share your voice.
Téra
Acrylic, Xerox, clay, paper mache, tape on canvas boards (2024)
Téra (soil) is a celebration of my home country Cabo Verde, and its rich biodiversity that extends across its 10 islands My piece features the lush green mountains that flourish during the rainy season, alongside steep cliffs, towering mountains and the deep blue sea that surrounds the archipelago
I created an image composition, all of which was taken by me, pairing it with my interpretation of the corn and banana plant, both without fruit symbolizing new growth
I incorporated the mixed media techniques I had explored in “Garden Kisses”, using layering and composition. It is also a continuation of “Grounded”, that follows a similar theme and what initially inspired me to make this.
Grounded
Acrylic on canvas (2024)
This piece is an exploration of my deep rooted relationship with my home country
I chose the corn and banana plant, both shown in “Téra”, alongside the papaya tree and the croton plant, all of which are characteristic of Cabo Verde I present my heart as their roots, symbolizing stability and my deep connection with this place
My culture and heritage live in me no matter where I am, it is quite literally grounded in me.
This was my first time experimenting with mixed media ever! I was inspired by some fabric I had found and let it lead the way I layered different textures and patterns together with magazines and other fabrics, visually interacting with something that already existed, giving it a new life
I added clay vines and roses where I felt it needed a 3d aspect Playing along with themes of flora and greenery, hence the name “Garden Kisses”
This freestyle piece ended up becoming one of my most intricate ones to date!
Garden Kisses
Fabric, paper, clay, acrylic on wood (2023)
What drew me into the Nursing Program
by Grace Yu ‘28 Nursing Scholar
The transition from high school to college is often described as exciting yet daunting a whirlwind of new beginnings. New freedoms (and challenges) of designing your schedule. Small, familiar class sizes change into lecture halls filled with 50+ students And swapping a school of 3,000 students for a campus of 23,000 strangers Let’s just say, it is a lot to take in
Even before I began applying to colleges, one question was a prevailing concern: “How can I adjust to this new lifestyle, comfortably and as quickly as possible?”
That question was answered almost instantly when I discovered Hunter’s Honors & Scholars Program (NSP)
One look at the program ’ s webpage, and I knew this was where I belonged What truly captivated me was the idea of joining a close-knit, supportive community a built-in network of peers and mentors who would make Hunter feel like home.
Jenny Zhan, a fellow NSP scholar, described it perfectly:
"As an incoming college student, I was overwhelmed by the thought of starting fresh in an unfamiliar environment. But joining the Nursing Scholar Program (NSP) was a true turning point. Seeing familiar faces in my classes made the transition so much smoother, giving me a sense of belonging and confidence. It reminded me that I wasn't navigating this journey alone we were all in it together."
The NSP program offers invaluable resources, from networking opportunities to academic guidance, but its true treasure lies in the supportive community it fosters As an anxious freshman in a new environment, my nerves were quickly eased by the welcoming atmosphere and the guidance of our advisor, Dr Joel R Jiménez Through weekly freshman seminars, he’s been a source of support, helping with everything from class schedules to personal concerns. Familiar faces, study groups, and mutual encouragement served as ways to help us all steadily adjust to the new rigor of college.
Gina Chen, another NSP scholar, shared: "When I first started college, I was prepared to feel like just another face in the crowd. But NSP changed that. Walking into classes and recognizing people I’d already connected with gave me a sense of stability and made the transition feel less like starting over and more like continuing to grow."
What began as a nerve-wracking transition has turned into an exciting journey, thanks to NSP. The program didn’t just make college manageable; it made it meaningful As I navigate my first semester and look ahead to nursing school, I know I’m not alone. With a vibrant and supportive community by my side, I’m ready to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead and I couldn’t be more excited for the road ahead
Nursing Scholar Seminar & Community Building
By Abigail Cortez-Alcantara ‘25 & Rebecca Gould ‘27 Nursing Scholars
Nursing seminars cover a wide variety of topics, such as the importance of networking and LinkedIn, self-care workshops and research seminars
Every month of the semester, Nursing Scholars come together with their cohort to engage with peers, faculty and guest speakers It’s a great way to keep in touch with fellow peers while learning from highly experienced speakers to learn lessons that might not always be taught in our academic classes.
Pictured above, Senior class
Class of 2025
Junior class
Class of 2028
As for seniors, their seminars consist of learning how to identify bullying in the work place; hearing faculty speak about their own experiences in the field; and meeting with lower classmen to them helpful advice on how to navigate nursing school!
Empowering each other and developing team work is important for future nurses This program provides us a place to learn, connect, and grow together.
A Chat with an Alum: Issue 2
COLLEEN DENMON
Written by India Butler ‘25
Formatted by Anvita Tammisetti ‘25 Roosevelt Scholars
Colleen Denmon's journey from Hunter College to Cornell Law School reflects her dedication to service, personal growth, and making a positive difference in the lives of others. Now a first-year law student at Cornell, Colleen’s story is not just about academic achievement, but also about a desire to give back to her community and grow – as a person and as a scholar.
Building Community and Connections at Hunter
When Colleen began her time at Hunter College, she approached everything with warmth and an eagerness to connect with those around her. "Being part of the Roosevelt Scholars Program was really important for me," Colleen shares. "It gave me the chance to meet people who shared my passion for public service and advocacy, and it shaped how I view the role that I can play in my community."
The Roosevelt Scholars program, alongside Hunter’s Pre-Law Program and other activities, nurtured her leadership abilities and gave her the confidence to pursue her goals while always staying grounded in service At Hunter, Colleen also found a sense of belonging within the supportive campus community As a member of honor societies like Phi Beta Kappa and the Thomas Hunter Program, she challenged herself academically but always kept in mind the values of kindness, humility, and giving back "Hunter taught me that real success means helping others along the way," she says
A Heart for Service and Advocacy
Colleen’s commitment to service has always been at the heart of everything she does From her time as Miss Crown City’s Outstanding Teen, where she worked to promote diversity and empower young people, Colleen has continuously sought ways to make a positive impact “I’ve always believed that true leadership is about helping others” she shares ”It’s about using whatever platform you have to make a difference, no matter how big or small” Her passion for advocacy continued at Hunter College, where she actively contributed to initiatives
initiatives focused on student support and inclusion. She also participated in the Miss New York Scholarship Organization, where she formed meaningful relationships with her community and continued advocating for causes close to her heart Beyond this, Colleen was Secretary of Hunter’s Circle K International Through Circle K, she collaborated on service projects that supported local communities and fostered a sense of camaraderie among members. “Service isn’t just about giving your time; it’s about truly caring and being there for others” she says
Diverse Experiences That Shaped Her Growth
Colleen’s professional experiences have helped her refine her skills and grow her vision. On the Hunter campus, she served as Residence Life Commissioner, actively seeking out student concerns, and testifying before the New York City Economic Development Corporation about the redevelopment of the Brookdale site on 25th Street. Colleen also served as a student ambassador, welcoming prospective students to campus, leading tours, fielding questions, and sharing her enthusiasm for the vibrant opportunities offered by New York City. Additionally, as a Research Assistant with Dr. Joseph Viteritti, Colleen helped with his upcoming publication on school choice and voucher laws in K-12 schools Her work honed her research and editorial skills, and also grew her first-hand knowledge of state-level data and policy reforms. Later, she excelled as the Project Assistant for the Hunter College Pre-Law Program. In this position, Colleen started out coordinating events and helping fellow students learn about the legal profession, providing an early look into the field she is passionate about. As she progressed, Colleen led events, including
a group visit to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. These roles taught her the importance of clear communication and adaptability and reinforced her commitment to service and professional excellence. “Each role I’ve had has been a chance to learn and grow ” she reflects. ”What I value most is the opportunity to help others and learn from them along the way ” .
Transitioning to Law School
When Colleen decided to go to law school, she approached it with the same care and thoughtfulness that she had put into her studies and community work. She credits her time at Hunter College, especially through the Roosevelt Scholars Program and the Pre-Law Program, for preparing her for the challenges of law school “The transition to Cornell Law has been both challenging and exciting. It has given me new ways to grow. ” As Colleen embarks on her law career, she remains committed to the values of service and community that have shaped her journey so far
Pieces of Advice
Colleen’s advice for Roosevelt Scholars in general, as well as any aspiring law students, is grounded in her own experiences of growth and service: “Get involved in what matters to you, whether it’s through clubs, volunteering, or internships.” She adds, “Never underestimate the impact of the work you do, no matter how small it seems. ”
RooseveltScholar Spotlight
WrittenbyHannahAmar‘27andCecilia Castellon‘26
RooseveltScholars
Growing up in Rosedale, Queens, Jeremy Montrose developedapassionforbasketballfromayoungage.He attendedSt.FrancisPrepinNorthQueensandwasable topursuethispassionasamemberofthebasketballteam. JeremydecidedtoattendHunterCollegebecauseofit's closeproximitytohomeandtheopportunitytoplayon the basketball team. Jeremy’s academic and personal journeythroughcollegerevealedhisgoalsandinterestsin findingawaytomakeanimpactonthebroaderworld.
Jeremy’smother,whoholdsaPh.Dindevelopmental psychology,encouragedandinfluencedhiseducational journeyimmensely.Sheencouragedhimtoexplorethe variousprogramsHunterhastoofferwhichresultedin himearningaspotasaRooseveltScholar.Jeremybegan collegewithanundeclaredmajorandspenthisfirstyear andahalfofcollegecompletingrequirementsandcore classeswithotherRooseveltScholars.
Afterenrollinginaneconomicscourse,Jeremydiscovered hisinterestinpoliticalsciencewhichheultimatelypaired withurbanstudiesasadoublemajor.Jeremyfindsthat thispairingofapoliticalsciencebeingatheoreticalmajor while urban studies offers more concrete applications allowsforawell-roundedunderstandingofsocietalissues. Jeremywasencouragedbyhismothertogainpractical workexperiencewhilepursuinghisdegree. Duringhis freshmanyear,JeremyworkedasaninternatAssociation for a Better New York, a non-profit focused on combatingandaddressingeconomicandurbanchallenges inNewYorkCity.Jeremyspentthefollowingsummeras aninternintheNYCComptroller’sOfficeunderBrad Landergainingexperienceincitypolitics.
Duringhissophomoreyear,Jeremysecuredaspotina highly competitive program of The Institute for ResponsibleCitizenship.Thisisawellregardedtwoyear program in Washington, DC for high achieving, motivatedAfricanAmericanmalecollegestudents.Jeremy was one of 12 students selected in his cohort for an intensivetwo-summerprogramthatprovidesmembers withprestigiousinternshipsinvariousfieldsofinterests. HeintervenedonCapitolHillunderGregoryMeeksand atProsperityNow,gainingexperienceinstateandlocal policyaswellaseconomicmobility.
Jeremy’sdedicationtocivicengagementandcommunity affairsledhimtofoundtheMenofColorAssociationat Hunter College (MOCAH). This club is focused on creatingmentorshipandcommunityformenofcolor. In additiontoMOCAH,JeremyjoinedAlphaPhiAlpha,a historicallyblackfraternitythathasimmenselyshapedhis personaldevelopmentaswellasacademicsuccess.The fraternity’sdedicationtocivicengagement,publicaffairs andacademicsuccesscreatedacommunityoflikeminded
individualsforJeremy.Hismembershipinthefraternity deepened his dedication to policy issues such as gun violence.
ThetragiclossofJeremy’scousin,DanielGordon,in Atlanta Georgia sparked his passion for gun violence advocacyandprevention Thistragiclosshasmotivated Jeremytoexploregunviolenceprevention Hehopesto continue his education at the University of Chicago SchoolofPublicPolicyandlearnmoreaboutgunviolence prevention
AsaRooseveltscholar,Jeremyhasreceivedguidanceand supportoverhisjourneyatHunterprovidinghimwiththe foundation to achieve academic and personal excellence ProfessorJaffehasbeenasignificantsourceofsupportin particular. Jeremy is prepared to make an incredible impact on the world, specifically in gun violence prevention Withapassionforcommunitydevelopment, JeremyembodiesthevaluesofaRooseveltScholarandis trulyarolemodelforallscholars.
JeremyonCapitolHill.Intheright photo,JeremyposedwithGregory Meeks,RepresentativeofNew York’sFifthCongressionalDistrict.
An Unexpected Paring: Humanities Complementing Sciences
by Rachel Malinkovich ‘25 Yalow Scholar
In the Yalow Scholars program, there is a great focus on the sciences with many of the students setting their sights on pursuing health related or academic careers. I have found that a humanities minor, unexpectedly and uniquely complements the study of genetics and biochemistry. I am majoring in Biology, and for my minor, I chose Spanish language. My intention was to continue to study the Spanish language, which has been my intellectual pursuit and hobby since seventh grade. I thought that studying Spanish would be both pleasant
Hunter College, the view from the 7th floor bridge
pleasant and useful. As a future health-care professional, I thought that being able to communicate with patients in Spanish would be a valuable skill. However, I have found the Spanish minor to be more fulfilling than I expected. I have been able to balance studying Biology with a healthy dose of Spanish literature, culture, history, and philosophy, all of which are vital for the full development of the mind The Spanish minor gives its students the opportunity to take two grammar classes, two literature classes, and one history class taught entirely in Spanish
One of my favorite classes at Hunter was Latin American literature taught by Profesor Magdalena Perkowska We read short stories called “cuentos” in Spanish We read stories by Quiroga, Borges, Cortázar, and García Márquez to name a few Jorge Luis Borges and Julio Cortázar are authors that write about themes of reality, the imagination, and ambiguity Both authors try to examine if the imagination and reality can coexist in this world. Is there a clear line between fantasy and real life? Borges and Cortázar show that intellectual labyrinths exist not solely in literature but also in real life. These authors prompted me to think about how we continuously create plans for the future, trying to imagine how it will all come together, and we live in that future, a figment of our imagination.
Another topic we talked about was the subject of photos. Prof Perkowska shared a quote with the class by Susan Sontag, an American photographer. She said, “Essentially the camera makes everyone a tourist in other people's reality.” To explore this idea, we read literary works by Roberto Bolaño and Julio Cortázar. Taking photos, on one hand, gives the viewer distance, and on the other hand, the moment is captured forever Also, Bolaño and Cotázar lead us to realize that there are
are norms and cultural practices in societies, even “civilized and progressive” societies, that are barbaric We are led to consider the ethicalness of our actions, even those deemed “civilized.”
Studying Spanish, and humanities in general, not only makes us think but also has useful benefits. The study of Spanish literature is not solely for pleasure, considering the ethics of one ’ s actions is deeply important for a healthcare professional.
My knowledge of Spanish language will likely prove very useful in my future as a healthcare professional Even as a hospital volunteer, I have had the opportunity to communicate with Spanish-speaking patients in pediatrics and in the emergency room Often, I ride down to the emergency room on the elevator with a cart full of free goodies intended as gifts for the patients During that ride, hospital staff and medical personnel look longingly at the bottles of lotion and the stress balls in my cart. Sometimes, they ask, and I give it to them as a present. Doctors’ and nurses ’ spirits need improvement too I circle the emergency room asking patients and their support persons if they would like anything from the cart: a pen, tissues, a toothbrush, lotion, etc. I pull aside each curtain with the biggest “ ray of sunshine” smile to try to lift the mood of the patients.
One day, when I was nearing the end of my ER route, I began asking a patient if she would like anything, but she said, “ no entiendo inglés (I don’t understand English). I said, “oh, ok, hola, me llamo Rachel, y soy del ministerio de voluntarios en este hospital (hi, my name is Rachel, and I am from the volunteer department at this hospital).” Then, I listed in Spanish the items in my cart and asked her if she would like anything
Hospital Entrance
Photography by Rachel Malinkovich
After that introduction, the patient felt much more comfortable and greatfully accepted a gift from my cart I began asking the patient next to her if he wanted anything. After I introduced myself and before I could begin my sales pitch, he said that he also cannot speak English. I began in Spanish, but he said he is just kidding.
That day, as I rolled the cart down to the elevators, and it rattled very loudly, I was reminded of something that my Spanish professor Marithelma Costa, once said. She said that when she is sick, she cannot understand English When one is ill, one is comforted by hearing his or her mother tongue. When a person is in the emergency room and hears “tengo aquí la loción, los cepillos de dientes, los libros para dibujar, los bolígrafos, los rompecabezas y todo es gratis (I have here lotion, tooth brushes, books for drawing, pens, puzzles, and everything is free), it is a good beginning
Beyond the Stethoscope
Yalow Scholars is a community of diverse passions—here is a look deeper past the STEM disciplines that unites us together Hear from Yalows about their unconventional passions that drive them.
by Niharika Ojha ‘27 Yalow Scholar
The Yalow Scholars program welcomes new cohorts of diverse students with unique aspirations, identities, and experiences, creating an inspiring mosaic. While most Yalows are united in their scientific aspirations in academia or becoming the next generation of medical professionals, don’t let that shared passion paint a picture of a one-dimensional STEM-oriented student This community beautifully exemplifies the richness of intersectionality, where race, gender, sexuality, religion, culture, and academic pursuits converge in ways that are both inspiring and, at times, challenging We create a dynamic space where scholars learn not only from their studies but from each other’s journeys be it the nuanced perspectives born of cultural heritage, the passion for underrepresented fields, or the drive to break barriers in traditional academic paths
As a student studying Biochemistry and Economics, I frequently connect two separate, but related fields. Growing up in Nepal, I saw significant differences in healthcare availability, an encounter that strongly influenced my dedication to promoting fair medicine while acknowledging the economic aspects of patient care These initial encounters, in comparison to the healthcare system in America, have enhanced my perception of privilege and inequality, motivating my commitment to creating significant improvements in these areas
This concept of having multiple interests is a recurring theme across Yalow. Consider Olivia who is in her
junior year a Psychology student who adjacently developed a keen interest in the topic of religion during her sophomore year at Hunter College Through courses like REL 111: Approaches to Religion, she enhances her academic knowledge while providing an empathetic viewpoint on human experience. Olivia emphasizes Yalow's ability to create a fair and encouraging environment that embraces each student's individual background and goals She also feels as though, “the Yalow program does a good job at making everyone feel equal and included, giving each scholar equal opportunities and support.”
Next, there's Mark a junior whose experience as a Mathematics major showcases the diversity within Yalow In a program with many aspiring doctors and biochemistry/biology lovers, Mark's emphasis on math education demonstrates that STEM includes more than just test tubes and stethoscopes His story highlights how Yalow consists of individuals with unconventional STEM disciplines such as mathematics and psychology.
Mark’s insight hints to the broad academic diversity within Yalow. While the program already provides incredible support to students pursuing medical and PhD paths, it’s clear that the richness of Yalow’s community includes scholars with a wide range of academic interests. This diversity in disciplines only enhances the program ’ s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all students can thrive, no matter their academic focus
At its core, what truly unites the Yalow community is the connections we make and the perspectives we share. These relationships and experiences are essential to our personal and academic growth The program already excels in fostering a strong sense of belonging and community, and as Yalow continues to grow, its dynamic and diverse nature ensures that every scholar, regardless of their academic focus, feels supported and valued
As someone with a broad range of interests, I understand both the challenges and the rewards of pursuing multiple academic avenues. I wrote this article to highlight individuals who, like me, bring diverse
perspectives to the Yalow community, and to emphasize the importance of ensuring that all students regardless of their academic focus feel heard and supported The strength of the Yalow program lies not only in its academic foundation but in the relationships and insights we share. The Yalow program has built a strong foundation, and as it continues to evolve, and both faculty and scholars work together we will enrich and strengthen the Yalow community further!
Boudhanath Stupa, Nepal | By Niharika Ojha
The CollegeTransition
by Jeruseth (Jeru) Dizon ‘27 Yalow Scholar
As a freshman scholar, the adjustment to college life can be a tricky one. Here are the lessons I’ve learned and advice I’ve received to feel less anxious about this new stage of life--and even grow to embrace the change.
Hello adulthood
As most people would agree, college is the start of adulthood. It is the first step to building the future you want for yourself. It is time you self-discover, develop your character, and become a true individual Along with these great aspects of college also comes stress College is a very unfamiliar level of stress With this piece, I want it to be a reading you seek for comfort. It is meant to share my experience of transitioning to college and remind you that you are human.
You’re not alone
The Hunter College Skybridge
Everyone around you is probably experiencing these feelings too, even if it doesn’t seem that way. You’ll come to learn that many do a great job or hiding it or masking it, faking it until you make it, if you will. But what I have learned is that accepting what you know, or don’t know, is the first step to becoming open-minded about learning, and it marks the beginning of building confidence in yourself
Change
Change is scary, it is different, but it can be essential to breaking unwanted cycles In my freshman year, I found that pulling all-nighters and ignoring my mental health was very noticeable. It was prominent when I didn’t get sleep, eat, or take a moment for myself.
Going into my sophomore year, I’ve made self-care a priority Whether it was being more organized with my to-do lists, going on walks, exercising daily, journaling, or being with friends, I made sure I was prioritizing myself. I also found that keeping your loved ones and a strong support system close was key to feeling less anxious as they are human reminders that life is more than the negative aspects you are confronted with
From me to you
Coming from someone who is still doing her best to figure it out, the notable advice I can give is to be understanding with yourself and trust that, in the end, everything will be okay For anyone transitioning from high school to college, or semester to semester, let this serve as a reminder that it’s human to face obstacles along the way. These are the years to make mistakes, learn from them, and move forward with more knowledge So to everyone in the same boat, take a deep breath, take it one day at a time You will get through this If there’s one thing I want other students to know, it’s that college is the time to learn. It is time to learn about your inner self, future goals, and the people around you. It’s normal to feel lost, overwhelmed, and anxious.
“A failure is not a loss if you gained a lesson from it.”
Hunter’s five scholar programs are open for a new class of applicants for class of 2030. We welcome you to apply!
Open to incoming freshmen only.
Benefits include but not limited to:
Tailored first-semester scheduling by program to set you up for success from the start. Priority registration to help you get into the classes you need every semester.
Advisors in your area of study to guide you in the best way toward your individual goals. Be a part of a community of people who share similar aspirations, making it easier to create a strong social and supportive community in a big public college like Hunter.
Merit-based partial scholarship towards your tuition.
For more information please visit: https://hunter.cuny.edu/students/honors-scholar-program/
