SPAA Graduate Profile: Monica Galas (MPA'23)

Name: Monica Galas
Age: 30
Hometown: Paterson, NJ
SPAA MPA Grad Month/Year: May 2023
Current Position: Program Coordinator/Youth Counselor 

Why did you enroll at SPAA?
I wanted to expand my knowledge so that I could strengthen my leadership skills within public service and assist others in advanced ways. 

What do you hope to accomplish with your degree?
I hope to implement new and progressive methods to have an optimal outcome in the lives of the disadvantaged and voiceless. 

Favorite SPAA memory and/or most meaningful experience at SPAA?
Being a part of the SPAA Student Ambassador Program and the many relationships I was able to create throughout it. 

Biggest challenge(s)?
After graduating with my BA, I took a few years off from school, and because of this, I struggled with getting back into the mental space of being enrolled in school again. And this time it was different – not only was I back in school, but I also had to balance my full-time career, family, and the additional activities and organizations I’m involved with. 

Next steps?
I will be applying all that I have learned throughout my time in SPAA to my career. This will help me continue to move forward and upward within the career space I’m currently in and pivot into greater things. 

Advice to incoming students?
Imposter syndrome is real! But please allow yourself grace because you do deserve to be in this higher education space. You’ve worked hard for so many years to be here right now, don’t doubt your intelligence and abilities. Remind yourself of your goal(s) and keep a positive circle around you. It will make the journey that much more beautiful. Good luck!