Michele Paterson explores a career of helping others through applied behavior analysis program

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — DECEMBER 9, 2024) Like many students at Empire State University, Michele Paterson has overcome many obstacles in her journey as a nontraditional student. After exploring options for higher education that would allow her to balance work and other responsibilities, Paterson found Empire State University. She made the decision to pursue two degrees and become a first-generation student.

Paterson is graduating from Empire State University with a Master of Science in applied behavior analysis, a program dedicated to studying the science of human behavior. The program offers pathways for students to become board-certified behavior analysts and New York State licensed behavior analysts.

Paterson said she has always been interested in behavior and wanted to continue learning at Empire State University after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in community and human services. Paterson’s desire to understand human behavior ties into her career. She works for Level Up ABA Services in western New York, an organization dedicated to working with neurodiverse learners in home, school, and clinical settings.

“I was using the principles of applied behavior analysis without knowing it,” Paterson said. “With more life experience, I learned how to advocate to add neurodiverse individuals to the workforce and worked with them to develop tools to succeed in their new roles. Some of my favorite memories are when I was able to work with someone trying to achieve a goal, whether it be personal, professional, or academic. Now, I have the foundation to use science to increase their chances on achieving that goal.”

Paterson will be addressing her fellow graduates at a commencement ceremony in Albany, New York on December 13, 2024. In many ways, her journey captures the very essence of Empire State University’s mission — she began her academic journey as a first-generation student, and has since earned her bachelor’s degree and now master’s degree while balancing her family and career.

“I think I am an example of how your journey can be whatever you want it to be,” Paterson said. “It won’t be easy, but when you are done the celebration will be that much sweeter. I am mindful that I am a role model to my son, nieces and nephews, and it is important to have family support. Trying to balance my personal, professional and academic life has not been easy over the years — I have benefitted and achieved more because of my family’s support.”

Like many students, Paterson’s academic journey has not been linear nor easy, but she said the opportunities that came with her challenges have been well worth it. Paterson recently presented at the New York State Association for Behavior Analysts conference in Albany, New York and had a chance to meet leaders in her chosen field of work. Paterson’s role as a member of the NYS Association of Applied Behavior Analysis student committee and student ambassador gave her the opportunity to focus on the role of supervisee self-management.

“It was a whirlwind standing before my peers, mentors, and professionals,” Paterson said. “My section of the presentation focused on the implementation of self-management, the ‘how.’ I shared tips, resources, and guidance on how a supervisor can use self-management to enhance their practicum experience. I focused on practicality and how I have used self-management in my own supervision highlighting examples, tracking, and tools.”  

Paterson credits her success to the mentors and professors at Empire State University who work to accommodate students’ needs and cater to nontraditional learners who are oftentimes raising families and working in addition to their academic work.

“Empire State University is different,” Paterson said. “The university not only works with nontraditional students like me but continues to evolve and grow as an institution to meet learners where they are at. It provides resources, support, and guidance — all you have to do is ask.”

Paterson plans to prepare for the exams required to become a board-certified behavior analyst and will join a research team to continue supporting neurodiverse individuals and people who need additional assistance through organizations like Level Up ABA Services.

“I will be working on research focused on utilizing asynchronous online training to increase new graduate students in ABA understanding on the importance of developing their soft skills in compassion, empathy, cultural awareness, and conflict resolution,” Paterson said.