Countdown to Commencement
As graduation nears, Touro Talk caught up with Patricia Chery-Simon, a soon-to-be alum of the Graduate School of Social Work
What Are Your Career Plans?
I’d like to pursue a career serving the veteran population and also to continue working with people who have developmental disabilities. The military program that was created at Touro has opened my mind to a new career path that I did not know existed until I came here.
What is Your Bucket List?
On a professional level, I would like to partner up with the graduate school field advisors in creating field internships for incoming students who have a passion to serve people with intellectual disabilities.
On a personal level, taking a vacation is a big priority. This summer, I would like to visit a country that is impoverished and assist children and families with basic needs. I am already involved in projects with to help children in Haiti with school costs and clothing and I’d like to do more.
Who is Your Role Model?
My mother is my role model. When my mom came to this country, she had nothing and yet, she managed to raise four children on her own. She went to school at night so she could provide a comfortable lifestyle for me and my siblings. My mom is currently a LPN and is working towards her R.N.
While I was at Touro, I met faculty and staff who have also become role models to me. The professors and Director of Admissions fostered great personal relationships with the students. They helped me see that anything is possible once you put a fire under the challenge and that we can all ignite others to join our struggles and causes.
Where do you Hope to be in Five Years?
I would like to be enrolled in a doctoral program that will allow me to enhance my skills. I would like to create a non-profit organization that fosters relationship among children in the United States and international students. I would like to incorporate a scholarship program for children who cannot afford books or necessary tools to meet their educational needs. I would also like to be more involved with polices that affect women rights.
