Congratulate and celebrate our employee grads

Among the thousands of students finishing another chapter of their academic careers this spring, a number of University employees will also graduate. In recognition of their accomplishments, we’re highlighting several and sharing their advice to colleagues who are considering going back to school.
Congratulate and celebrate our employee grads

Maria Amezquita

What were some highlights of your time as a student and employee? 

I don’t get to interact with students in my employee role, so volunteering at commencement has always been a highlight for me. It truly is a joyous occasion for everyone involved, and I have always been happy to do my part to make sure it’s a great experience for the graduates and their guests.!” Read more.

Nicole Alexandra Andujar

What were some highlights of your time as a student and employee?

“I really enjoyed getting to know the other students in my cohorts. Since I attended grad school part time, I have gotten to know three cohorts of students that have graduated. Staying in touch through the years has been great and knowing they are doing well in the field makes me happy.” Read more.

Christine Baez

Please share advice for employees looking to go back to school.

“You can do it! Do not let the fear of failure or the unknown hold you back. It is the most rewarding feeling when you finish your program and have accomplished such a milestone.” Read More.

Arlene Buchanan

Please share advice for employees looking to go back to school.

Do it! It won’t be easy, but I promise it will be worth it! Pursuing a Master of Science in higher education administration with a concentration in enrollment management was the perfect decision for my career. Providing stellar student services is rewarding work, and I wanted to elevate my knowledge and capabilities in the field of higher education. Read more.

Dalton James Hesley

What were some highlights of your time as a student and employee?

I am so thankful for the 6+ years I have had as a student and staff member of the University of Miami. The Rosenstiel School is an absolutely incredible place to call home with its world-renowned researchers, oceanside views, and local watering hole (The Wetlab). There have been so many highlights during my time here. I will forever be grateful for logging more than 900 scientific dives with our coral restoration team, making lifelong friendships in class and the community, and cheering at countless ’Canes games, not to mention the amazing education I received!” Read more.

Monica Alexandra Hoo

Please share advice for employees looking to go back to school.

Take advantage of everything UM has to offer and start now. Time will continue to pass, regardless of what you do with it. So, do something that will help you grow. As of this summer, I will be a double alumna of UM. I earned my second master's degree—a Masters of Arts and liberal studies with a focus in sociology—at the University. I did it by taking one or two classes per semester using my tuition remission benefit. ” Read more.

Lorena Lopez Hechavarria

What were some highlights of your time as a student and employee?

“I think being able to see the University through different lenses has been one of the most rewarding parts of my experience. In my time here, I have been able to work, teach, and learn because of the various roles I’ve played, and they have allowed me to meet so many wonderful individuals. From my colleagues to cohorts, and most recently my own students, the UM community has been so welcoming. And being able to interact with such a diverse group of people has definitely been a highlight of my experience.” Read more.

Gabriel Alexander Perez

Please share advice for employees looking to go back to school.

“Why would you not take advantage of this benefit? Going back to school is a great way to propel your career if you're just getting started, or to break out of a rut if you've been in the game for a few years. There are so many advantages to establishing relationships with professors and students.” Read more.

Heather Michelle Stevens

What were some highlights of your time as a student and employee?

“I also earned my bachelor’s degree from UM. The spirit of being a student and believing in this wonderful community is so imbued in everyone. The energy is motivating and exciting, which makes getting work done for classes and for my job always possible—even if the workload for either at times made me feel otherwise. Above all, the greatest highlight for me was getting to study something that is important to the UM community.” Read more.

Daniel Yanez

Please share advice for employees looking to go back to school.

What are you waiting for? Do it. If you are strongly considering it, life and time are going to pass by no matter what. If you have the full support of your family and your supervisor, then it is a decision you will never regret. We should all be mindful of personal development and should strive to be lifelong learners.” Read more. 

Interested in learning more about the employee tuition remission benefit?

Visit the Benefits Office website for more information and eligibility details.