"It is my dream to further improve mental health accessibility in my home country, the Philippines - while creating programs that are more culturally relevant for future generations of Filipinos."

I serve Mental Health Counseling students with last names starting with N-Z. 

Why BC?: I chose BC because I believe that this program had the most holistic approach to mental health counseling. I was particularly interested in the social justice and multiculturalism aspect of the program, which is truly what makes it unique."

Academic/Career Interests: Yanna is interested in furthering research on Southeast Asian psychology. She hopes to take her private practice to the Philippines, where she can apply what she learned to make mental health more relatable and relevant to Filipinos. It is also her hope to continue to work with non-profit organizations to create opportunities for alternative forms of mental health support.

Personal Interests: In her free time, I enjoy going on long walks, trying out new cafes, binge-watching crime shows, and immersing myself in Hallyu-related media.

"I chose the program at BC for its dedicated faculty and cohorts to social justice and equity in schools."

Why BC?: Beyond the stirling reputation of Lynch, this program would give me the tools and resources to grow in my practice and desires better schools and serve their communities. The professors, cohort members, and team are all committed to meaningful change and growth in various educational communities.

Academic/Career Interests: Curriculum Development, Social Justice, and Structural Growth of Schools

Personal Interests: Hiking, Camping, Rowing, Biking, and Painting

"As an international student from China, I earned my master’s degree in Education from Central South University in Changsha. I hold Senior Secondary School Teacher qualification certificate and used to be a very experienced teacher in China."

Why BC?: I chose BC because the program I’m pursuing combines education with data analysis which matches my interests. I was also drawn by small-sized classes in BC. I loved that I would have more opportunities to study and communicate with different professors directly. The program was a great fit!

Academic/Career Interests: I am interested in data analysis and evaluation in Education, such as data analysis in teaching and students, assessment in classroom management, and evaluation in the examination system.

Personal Interests: In my free time, I like to travel around the world, and I have been to many countries and areas. Besides, I like jogging and cooking.

"After my undergraduate experience, I realized how important it was for me to gain real-world experience after countless job applications in various fields. The Higher Education program allows me to gain experience, but also experience that I want for my career."

Why BC?: The Higher Education program is very student-centered, which resonated with me. Another factor was the focus on experience and assistantships in the field of study.

Academic/Career Interests: I am interested in Academic Advising, Graduate Admissions, and DEI work. I enjoy working with students and learning more about them and learning about their aspirations. I had great mentors, professors, and teachers that have helped me grow into the person I am today. I hope to impact students like those who have impacted my life.

Personal Interests: Sports, I am very big in basketball and football. Sadly, I am a Minnesota Fan, but our future is slowly improving. If you need Fantasy football advice, I am your man. I am huge into superheroes, so I am more than happy to discuss anything geeky-related. The last few things that make me super awesome are I enjoy working out, cooking and music.

"I am a newcomer to the Boston area and am excited to connect with the community, explore local food spots, and partake in spooky autumn activities."

I serve Secondary Education students with last names starting with N-Z. 

Why BC?: I chose to attend BC because of the secondary education program's focus on preparing liberatory educators. Education is a sociopolitical vocation and BC ensures as educators we are aware of the systemic inequities present in the schooling system and how we can reduce these inequities. Furthermore, through the Donovan Urban Scholars Program and other scholarships, BC makes becoming an educator financially accessible.

Academic/Career Interests: I am dedicated to building community in the classroom and creating a curriculum within an anti-racist, anti-ableist, and decolonial framework.

Personal Interests: In my free time, I enjoy reading lesbian literature, painting, and cooking Caribbean food. I am an avid fan of horror movies, and love exploring Boston!

"After graduation, I taught English in Spain and fell in love with the world."

Why BC?: I chose BC for the program's focus on international perspectives and graduate assistantships.

Academic/Career Interests: I am interested in working in the field of international education. My interests include studying abroad, global offices within universities, 3rd party cultural exchange programs, and international admissions/recruitment.

Personal Interests: I am an avid traveler, foodie, and scrapbooker. I enjoy taking walks, exploring new places, and spending time with friends/family.

"I want to help kids like me feel comfortable and included while supporting their emotional and academic needs."

Why BC?: I chose BC because I love its philosophy of inclusion. I was drawn to their outlook on education and how we can cater to the whole student. Here at BC my advisors and professors have catered to my needs flawlessly.

Academic/Career Interests: My goal is to become a second-grade teacher after graduating from Boston College. I was diagnosed with dyslexia around the second/third grades, and because of this diagnosis, I struggled in elementary school. 

Personal Interests: I love to hang out with my friends and find new places to eat in my free time. One of my passions is traveling and my favorite place to go is Rome. I love fitness and I try to run every day.

"Learning in the metropolis leads an exhilarating life, of its expansion to the frontier of knowledge and the access to all kinds of people and their stories, all of which sharpen my understanding of distinct educational individuals."

Why BC?: BC incorporates students from various backgrounds and promotes diversity and equality on and off campus. That’s just what a teacher/instructor is meant to do! Moreover, choosing the LREN program is icing on the cake! It discusses almost every step in the teaching environment, from preparation, practice, and evaluation to promotion aiming to construct a highly efficient and quality class, which I believe is the most fulfilling thing for a teacher!

Academic/Career Interests: I wonder if there is any other role I can play other than just a teacher. I want to be a developer, and designer, not just an executor, especially to take the advantage of technology.

Personal Interests:  I have traveled to more than 10 counties in Europe and most parts of China, and I also love jogging.

"As a Minnesotan, I truly felt and continue to feel as if Boston were a community receiving me with open arms to support me in my academic and professional endeavors while respecting my personal journey."

I serve Secondary Education students with last names starting with A-M. 

Why BC?: I chose BC for a multitude of reasons, but primarily because of the sense of community that was evident both on BC's website and their in-person Chestnut Hill campus.

Academic/Career Interests: My academic and career interests intersect to serve communities of learners and promote equitable and student success. As a future Spanish teacher, I am committed to sharing her love of language with students while providing an education that holistically supports students. In the future, I am interested in exploring the fields of Academic Advisement, Higher Education Administration, School Counseling, and/or College Student Mental Health Counseling.

Personal Interests: My personal interests include nourishing her plants, practicing the piano, enjoying Mexican cuisine, and watching documentaries.

"All of my classes have a great student-to-professor ratio that allows for a more homogeneous learning atmosphere."

Why BC?: I chose BC because of the majors and certifications offered. I am receiving certifications in deaf-blindness and autism spectrum disorder while I complete my master's program. I also chose BC because of the community aspect that I noticed as I was looking for a master's program. 

Academic/Career Interests: I plan complete my master's degree and become a teacher for children with extensive support needs. In the future, I intend to receive a doctorate in educational leadership to pursue a career as an administrator in a residential school setting. 

Personal Interests: Reading, traveling, and spending time with friends and family

"Coming from a smaller undergraduate school, I was worried I would be “just another number”. I didn’t want that experience. From the beginning of my interaction with Boston College, I knew it would be a place where I could grow, feel seen, and flourish."

I serve Mental Health Counseling students with last names starting with A-M.

Why BC?: The biggest reason I chose to come to BC was because I felt so welcome and I was able to reach out to various students and faculty members who were so helpful, encouraging, and kind. I also love how many opportunities there are to get involved in all different kinds of ways. Even for graduate students, there are so many ways to get involved!

Academic/Career Interests: I am passionate about helping young adults find their passion and drive and would like to further my research in the Positive Psychology field. More specifically, I want the focus of my research on mental health habits and how they contribute to well-being.

Personal Interests: Personal Interests: I love exploring new places and finding hidden gems (within the city as well as nature). I love all types of watersports and am planning on getting my sailing license soon. I am always excited about finding new coffee shops.

"I am excited to see where this path takes me as DEI work is very near and dear to me."

Why BC?: I chose BC because it aligns heavily with the DEI work I am engaged in as part of my job as a DEI dean and daily life. 

Academic/Career Interests: Anything aligned with Education and DEI.

Personal Interests: My personal interests include traveling and enjoying good food. I can often be found on the sidelines of one of her daughter's sporting events cheering everyone on. In my free time, I love to read and spend too much time deciding which Peloton workout to do.

"The professors and students within the Lynch School are so welcoming, I immediately felt a part of the BC community as soon as I joined."

Why BC?: I chose BC because of the people. Every class has had an inclusive atmosphere that allows students to dive deeper into the material we are learning while building strong relationships along the way. I have not only made lifelong friends within the Lynch School, but I know my professors and my classmates will continue to be a part of my professional journey upon graduation.

Academic/Career Interests: Brigid hopes to gain a position as a High School School Counselor for a public school in either Massachusetts or New Hampshire in the fall of 2023.

Personal Interests: Hiking, biking, skiing, and traveling