SPAA Graduate Profile: Jacinay Coleman-Shelton (BA'25)
Name: Jacinay Coleman-Shelton
Hometown: Newark, NJ
SPAA BA Grad Month/Year: May 2025
Current Position: Raider Career Ambassador at the Office of Career Resources and Exploration, Rutgers-Newark
Why did you enroll at SPAA?
After researching SPAA and experiencing its classes firsthand, I was drawn to its accomplishments and knew I wanted to contribute meaningfully. I took a leap of faith, and it has been deeply rewarding. SPAA has empowered me to discover my strengths and explore diverse career paths, instilling confidence in the versatility of the degree and fostering a belief that my degree can lead to any aspiration. Beyond academics, SPAA provided me with the community I was looking for. It connected me with a network of passionate individuals and illuminated my purpose of giving back to others.
What do you hope to accomplish with your degree?
Because this degree is so multifaceted, I hope to work and explore all of my options within public and nonprofit administration.
Favorite SPAA memory and/or most meaningful experience at SPAA?
The most meaningful experiences at SPAA for me have been outside the classroom. The moments where you share hopes and dreams, celebrate accomplishments, or even just reflect on a shared class experience. This is what cultivates SPAA's unique environment of collaboration, friendship, and leadership. The empathy, care, and mutual support from the SPAA family are what I value most, as they have contributed to my personal and professional growth.
Biggest challenge(s)?
The biggest challenges that I’ve faced are like any other first-generation student. It was difficult navigating this new path and struggling with imposter syndrome. It was tough trying to excel in my classes while also trying to figure out how I was going to pay tuition or where I was going to find time to do an internship to fulfill the requirements for the curriculum. Time management and organization is what I struggled with most; however, over the years, I’ve improved. I am grateful for the understanding and patient professors that I have and my advisor who was there whenever I needed assistance.
Next steps?
After graduation, I will be continuing my education with SPAA to obtain my MPA degree, a huge milestone for my family and me. This summer, I will complement my academic pursuits with an internship in Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman's Washington D.C. office, allowing me to directly apply my knowledge and advocate for the interests of New Jersey and the country.
Advice to incoming students?
Take advantage of every opportunity possible! Never be afraid to ask or speak up for yourself when necessary. The world is your oyster. Have fun, make those connections, and make every second count.