From the College of Staten Island to the New York State Senate (opinion)

Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton

Originally published in Staten Island Advance on .
JSS-HS
A few months ago, the Staten Island Advance published an article that highlighted the College of Staten Island’s shifting reputation as a top choice for students across New York.
 
Originally, my plan was to study nursing. CSI’s interdisciplinary education allowed me the flexibility to take classes in all areas, truly allowing me to explore all my interests. My first political science class was transformative – Professor Richard Flanagan opened my eyes to the importance of local government and encouraged me to apply for the Edward T. Rogowski Internship Program.
 

This was my introduction to state government, and it put me on the path to a career in public service. These phenomenal programs, classes and professors gave me the necessary guidance to become my best self, and I am eternally grateful for all the opportunities the College of Staten Island provided me.

Although I graduated 15 years ago, I carry the lessons I learned at CSI each and every day. Whether I’m speaking with constituents across our borough or my colleagues on the floor of the New York State Senate, I am always thinking of what my mentors taught me during my time as an undergraduate student.

 

Newsroom

Go to Newsroom