Christina Papaleo

After taking a course in American History in Higher Education last semester, I am slightly at the foundational level for this competency area. Being in Student Personnel Administration this semester has encouraged me to explore multiple areas in the student affairs profession, such as alumni relations. Recently I became a Graduate Student Member of NASPA, which provides access to publications and other resources that will guide me into a greater proficiency. I also joined CSPA-NYS to participate in regional events related to student affairs. Networking at various professional association events has and will continue to teach me to go beyond the lectures and literature--and to use them as a guide to effectively interact with my colleagues.​ As I approach the job search proccess next year, I anticipate an increased involvement in profesional organizations to strengthen my professional values and seek creative ways to shape my practice. 

This semester I had the unique opportunity to work on three different campuses: SUNY Buffalo State as a grad student, Medaille College as a Graduate Residence Director, and Canisius College as an intern. Each experience allowed me to explore different philosophical approaches to teh student affairs profession. Through interning in the Accessibility Support Office at the Griff Center, I learned an emerging trend in acommodations for students with disabilities: the impact of emotional support animals in the residence halls. As I observed the supervisory styles of my supervisors at Medaille and Canisius, I was able to craft my own Philosophy of Supervision (see tab above for details).