Name:  Santino Scibelli

Class Year:  Senior

Major:  Psychology

Program:  Academic Peer Advisor Internship

 

What is your association with Academic and Transfer Advising Services?

My experience has been very insightful and diverse. Being given the opportunity to work closely in an academic setting has helped me improve on professional and personal skills. One of the most positive qualities about the internship is that it really teaches you efficient time management and how to juggle your responsibilities efficiently. It was also awesome to get to know all of my fellow peers who took part in this internship experience with me and spend time with many of these bright and dedicated students. Having the opportunity to put myself in a peer mentor role to help guide students and also spending the time I have with my fellow interns has imprinted on me in many ways. It made me realize a lot of qualities about myself that I can carry on into my academics and other areas of my life.

How did you learn about the APA internship and why did you want to get involved?

I was attending my transfer orientation during the Spring of 2015 when I met Ellen Hopkins, Assistant Director, Academic and Transfer Advising Services. I was lost in the overwhelming crowd of students and Dr. Hopkins was in need of a volunteer to help her with an event she was working, so I figured i'd go for it.  Following the event, we ended up having a conversation, I learned more about who she is, and then she informed me about the internship. At the time I still wanted to get my feet wet on campus, so I kept it in mind but continued on with my semester. Towards the end of my first semester at Stony Brook, we ended up contacting each other and I shared an interest in applying for the position. I sent in my application and before I knew it, I was sitting in an interview panel.

How did the APA internship support your academic interests?

The internship has aligned well with my academic interests. I am currently a psychology major and have an interest in the social aspects relating to the field. I enjoy communicating and being able to guide my fellow peers so I can say that the experience has reflected my academic pursuits pretty well.

What advice would you give to students?

The best advice I can give you is to stay true to yourself. Don't settle for anything that you don't feel the heart or compassion for in all aspects of your life. Remain dedicated, motivated, and triumph through the obstacles that come your way because it will be well worth it in the long run. Your academics are important, but remember you are also and to not overwhelm yourself.