Five-Minute Feature: Kristina Papa, Academic Learning Coach and Opportunity Programs Academic Support Specialist
Get to know the Empire State University community through this rapid-fire interview series that bridges professional accomplishments and personal interests. What makes Empire State University exceptional? The unique people behind the work. Five minutes—starting now!
What led you to your career path?
I come from a family of teachers. Both my parents were English teachers in their home country, and my aunt was studying to be an early education teacher at the same time we moved to the United States.
One of my earliest memories as a child was “playing school” at my aunt’s house while she was filming for her certification. She’d set up a classroom in her living room where she’d read me books and have me discuss a text and its important themes. I’d take what I’d learned and immediately want to read to my younger brother once I got home.
On our walks to the park, my dad would “quiz” me on historical facts while my mom would recommend new books to read. They each modeled what a good teacher was and eventually lead me to study secondary English education. They sparked a desire in me to to help students reach their own potential. I love helping others share different perspectives and ideas.
What is your favorite thing about SUNY Empire?
I really love that SUNY Empire has built such a supportive community, something that can be tough to do in an online environment. Although we are spread across many different locations, everyone still shows up for each other in any way that they can. I know I can truly depend on my coworkers if I need to.
Working for the center for Academic Support and the Office of Opportunity Programs, I see firsthand how dedicated and genuinely kind everyone I work with is. I am lucky to be a part of departments that share the same goals and commitments to the population we serve.
What’s one moment in your career you’re especially proud of?
I have two. One moment I am very proud of is working as an adjunct professor at CUNY Queens College. This is where I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and where I gained my confidence as a teacher. Teaching at a high school level prior to adjuncting really helped me develop my own philosophy on the teacher I wanted to be, so going back and teaching college students was so exciting!
Another moment that is very special to me was working with SUNY Empire’s CAARES team during my first year here. I worked closely with Noor and Lauren to develop professional training on neurodiversity and strategies for tutoring students with autism for my staff. I am someone that likes to push myself to try new things and grow in my career, and this seemed scary to me at first because this was the first time I’d ever led professional development sessions on my own. Having a place like SUNY Empire where I felt comfortable and supported meant a lot to me. This taught me so much about advocacy and the need for resources and support programs.
What’s one way you try to show kindness day-to-day?
When I am on site in our Manhattan location, I love to knock on my coworker’s office doors and say good morning. I always try and make it a point to have little conversations with staff whenever I can because connection is so important. I also try to be very optimistic and a listening ear to staff and students.
Name one movie you can quote way too well.
I was involved in the theater department at CUNY Queensborough (where I also eventually taught) and auditioned for a play using a monologue from Dirty Dancing. This is one of my favorite movies, and was one of my favorites growing up, because just like “Baby,” I love to stand up for people and support them in any way I can.