I Do Declare!

For this episode’s guest, Cory Murphy, Montclair State University has been a lasting presence. With a mother who worked in admissions for thirty years, the campus felt more than just familiar – it felt like home. Though MSU was a welcoming environment where Cory thrived through extracurriculars like radio and on-campus concerts, life (as it sometimes does) got in the way. Fifteen years later, Cory has returned, bringing a story many listeners can relate to as she pursues not only her Bachelor’s, but her Master’s as well. She opens up to host Natalie T. López, M.A. about her career hopes and dreams, how her husband supports her, and how her son provides her with the drive to keep moving forward.

While college can come with its own difficulties, students are often wrestling with outside problems – whether they be from their past, or present. Dr. Tamara Massay-Trotz comes on the podcast to share her journey, and how her own story has prepared her for her career as Senior Director of Student Services at Bloomfield College. From East Orange to Miami and up to Montclair State, Dr. Massay-Trotz discusses being driven from a young age, and her process of realizing that there was a future despite her struggles. She provides an important voice, working from both a student and university employee perspective, and works to recognize the difficulties that will inevitably crop up. Life cannot be put on pause or thrown aside, and her department can help adult learners – already busy with coursework, careers, families, and health issues – keep their college story going, no matter how difficult the terrain may get.

While often an unseen aspect, finances are a deeply important aspect of keeping college life running smoothly. After all, money makes the world go ‘round – a sentiment Dr. Stephanie Mayer knows well. An adjunct professor and jazz musician by trade, Dr. Mayer also works full-time as Montclair’s budget analyst, converting numbers to easily understandable data that can then be used to improve MSU. She discusses the differences between accounting and finance, as well as how creativity can be found even in the most analytical of spaces. Though we frequently think of math as a hard science, Dr. Mayer’s love for the field shows the true power of pursuing your passions and bringing your full self to the table for the best possible results.

The second season of Adulting for Real starts off strong! Returning host Jane Sanchez-Swain interviews Chris Taite, a writer and poet who returned to Montclair State. His first round of education ended after he left for the workforce, which is where he spent most of his early life. Spurred on by his father’s request and one perfectly timed email later, Chris decided to take the plunge and finish what he’d started. While nerves are natural when it comes to college, Chris found comfort in the form of Montclair State’s academic advisors – care and attention that turned out to be fundamental to his return and continued success. From there he found himself gaining confidence: in himself, his voice, and his story. Deeply inspiring, Chris shows that there is no starting point too rough, and no circumstance too difficult to overcome when you have consistent support on your side.

This episode’s title is the main message Sunovia Scudder wants listeners to take from her work on campus. After graduating from Rowan University, Sunovia wanted to go into mechanical engineering but, after a temporary setback, explored law and justice. This turned out to be the best decision of her life, as her career path instantly clicked into place. From there she became an accomplished and driven project coordinator, working for Montclair State’s University Community Actions Nexus (uCAN). Providing outreach to prospective college students through the Office of Community Engagement and Partnerships, Sunovia connects resources to those who’ll benefit from them, while taking the time to understand their individual life stories and how these experiences may affect their college journeys. Those interested in sociology, law, psychology, and community service will find Sunny’s story compelling, and may inspire undeclared students to pick their path as well.

While many may think communication and health majors have little in common, today’s episode of I Do Declare! shows otherwise. With an early interest in media, Dr. Chris McKinley went from undeclared to a communications undergrad on the West Coast, spending his early years in San Diego and considering internships in Los Angeles. When his path crossed with a professor studying the effects of advertising on health, however, Dr. McKinley knew he’d found his calling. Discussions of purposeful consumption – of both food and reputable media sources – underscores the importance of this unlikely meeting of majors, especially in a world where good information on health is hard to find. Those interested in either field may want to take a listen, as Professor Chris McKinley discusses how this crossover shapes the health and happiness of millions.

“Luck, love, perseverance” is how Serena Kenney describes how she got her credit union job. However, anyone tuning into this episode can agree that these three words are the pillars for not only her job, but her college degree journey as well! In this illuminating and empowering discussion between Serena and Alicia Tucker, they discuss the role intuition plays in discovering what you really want in life, how Serena's intuition led her back to college, and how the ability to choose is life-changing. Having options is one of life’s greatest pleasures, one that can be augmented and attained through higher education, and Serena’s story is one of the best examples of this version of success.

After five years of working in banking and call centers, Dr. Ashante S. Connor decided she wanted more. Her story starts, like so many others, with community college and developing her skills and strengths, and ends with her graduating with a doctorate in 2021. What did she learn in between? How can this knowledge help other students on their own paths? Host Natalie Lopez walks listeners through Dr. Connor’s career, outlining each step clearly and concisely as they talk. Her experiences as a grad assistant student and her responsibilities as the Associate Vice President for Inclusive Excellence set the stage for her current work, and reinforces the lesson from past episodes of how a sense of community and belonging makes all the difference in student success.

Jane Sanchez-Swain returns to the MSU podcasting world to interview Liliana Berrocal and Rey Harris, a married couple returning to higher education together. Their perspectives in this unique situation will provide a wealth of information for those in similar set-ups – whether it’s supporting your partner on their academic journey, or finding balance between a couple’s load of classwork! Rey and Liliana also speak to the differences between attending college as young adults and as full-time working parents. They also discuss how best to support each other through difficult times, and how ambition and excitement can be incredibly contagious.

When students enter the college world, many times they’re not sure what to do. The question of what major to pursue can be daunting, but Mariam Ibrahim’s story shows that it doesn’t have to be. A current graduate student in MSU’s Business Analytics / MBA Dual Degree Program, Mariam started in Nigeria studying History and Strategic Studies of Diplomacy – a path her school picked for her, but one she enjoyed nonetheless. From there, she outlines the challenges and culture shocks of being an international student studying in England before arriving in America, and how these experiences of meeting new people from different cultures shaped her. Interviewed by Albert P. Antomattei, Mariam’s story shows that no matter where our lives take us, students can always find where they’re meant to be.

In the first episode of Adulting for Real, Mariam Ibrahim sits down with Levi Clain to discuss returning to college. A Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies (BLS) student at Montclair State, Levi shares insights and information regarding the unique challenges of getting a bachelor’s degree as an adult learner – including health issues and their undeniable impact on academic performance. Other topics of conversation are on-campus resources and events, how going back has clarified his path in life, and how writing has especially helped him through rough patches. A must-listen for anyone beginning their academic journey, considering going back, or who is just starting their second time around! 

Discussions of diversity, equality, and inclusivity take center stage in the forty-seventh episode of I Do Declare – topics that are important, not only in higher education, but in the world at large. Nowhere is this more apparent than in this interview between host Tabitha Riley and guest Darius Edwards, the current Assistant Director of Advocacy and Outreach for MSU’s Office of Student Belonging (formerly known as the Office for Social Justice and Diversity). A theater kid who realized behind the scenes work was just as important as the action on stage, Darius charts his journey through academia from communication studies to student advocacy. Social justice and self-care entwine and take the forefront of Darius’ work, showcasing how a little empathy and understanding can change someone’s life, and that some of the most important learning happens outside of the classroom.   Episode summary by Levi Clain, BA in Liberal Studies, concentration in Humanities

History is an often misunderstood major within the academic community, one that should be discussed more. After all, the connections to the past can be helpful in deciding what to do moving forward. That’s the reason why Jessica Pichardo chose History as her major, and why she began working in nonprofits and government sectors. After a decade in Child Protective Services, she moved into a higher-education degree in the education field, hoping to make a difference in the lives of Montclair students. With Armine Khudinyan as this episode’s host, Pichardo discusses the passion of the Montclair students, how the Next Generation Service Corps Program changed her life, and how she truly believes that her students’ success is her success.   Episode summary by Levi Clain, BA in Liberal Studies, concentration in Humanities  

Indecision is a common obstacle for college students trying to find out what they truly want to accomplish with their degree. Thomas Barbara, Employer Relations Specialist at Montclair State University, knows this better than anyone. Through his interview with Natalie Lopez, Barbara discusses how a chance conversation with a roommate set him on the right course, and how transferable skills helped get him to where he is today. He offers advice for those struggling with knowing what they want to do, as well as tips for being involved on campus. After all, as his story shows, you can’t do it alone. Episode summary by Levi Clain, BA in Liberal Studies, concentration in Humanities

For those interested in Psychology, look no further! Nadeen Obeidallah sits down with host Rob Schneider to discuss her early interest in the medical field. Through the influence of a high school teacher during her senior year, Nadeen realized she not only enjoyed Psychology, but wanted to pursue it as a career. They discuss higher education programs like Master’s and Doctorate programs, the difficulty of talking about being a Psych major in the face of disbelief in the field, and the ups and downs of finding the right medical school. Nadeen also shares tips and tricks for surviving midterms, the power of networking, and the importance of having a strong support system while pursuing this often-challenging career.    Episode summary by Levi Clain, BA in Liberal Studies, concentration in Humanities

I Do Declare! welcomes host Jane Sanchez Swain, in this wonderful double interview between Dr. Maria José García Vizcaíno and Melanie Lopez. As Chair of Spanish and Latino Studies at Montclair State University, Vizcaíno shares her experiences at Universidad de Granada in Spain, where she discovered her passion for languages and translation, leading to her eventual move to the United States. Melanie, a student pursuing a double major in Spanish, explains how the courses are more than just a language for her – they’re a way to connect with her family and community. In discussions between Chair and student, listeners will gain a new understanding and appreciation for the Spanish major, and learn how languages can usher in new experiences and opportunities. Episode summary by Levi Clain, BA in Liberal Studies, concentration in Humanities  

Those interested in psychology and disability advocacy might want to give this episode a listen! Host Tabitha Reilly sits down with Kathryn “Kat” Leonard, Director of the Certificate in General Education Studies Program at Montclair State University, to discuss her work in psychology. While pursuing that major (as well as a double minor in disability studies and cognitive sciences), one class she took stood out in particular, and changed the trajectory of her career forever. Episode summary by Levi Clain, BA in Liberal Studies, concentration in Humanities

Figuring out your college path isn’t always straightforward, but unexpected turns can lead to exciting discoveries. Corey Pinto shares his journey from an education background to teaching music and, ultimately, Speech Langauge Pathology in this discussion with host Alicia Tucker. As both a teacher and student, Pinto offers unique insights into the traits suited for SLP and how to take charge of your education. His story highlights the value of embracing the learning process and exploring new possibilities. Episode summary by Levi Clain, BA in Liberal Studies, concentration in Humanities

The Office of Student Belongings’ Director, Jonnine DeLoatch, stops by the podcast for a heartfelt and enlightening conversation. Interviewed by hosts Tabitha Riley and Natalie López, Jonnine shares her fascinating transition from dramatic arts major to leading figure in Higher Education, along with the best advice for freshmen.   Episode summary by Domenick Castellano, MA in English Produced and edited by Nick Kessler, Sports Communication major

Mark Hauser, MSU School of Business alumnus stops by the podcast to share his considerable experience, including what it’s like working for Ford and Meta. He goes on to share some invaluable tips for job seekers from a Recruiter’s perspective –not to be missed!   Episode summary by Domenick Castellano, MA in English Produced and edited by Skyler Merchant, BA in Communication and Media Studies

Those that lend a helping hand are very rich in spirit. In this case, Rob Schneider, Academic Advisor for University College, is the richest man alive. Led by host Natalie López, they discuss changing career paths, the benefits of taking time between undergrad and graduate school, and how to handle mentorship and networking as an introvert.   Episode summary by Domenick Castellano, MA in English Produced and edited by Zachary Jones, BA in Sports Communication

Dr. Tim White, Director of International Academic Initiatives, expresses the underappreciated nuances of a History degree and the detective work that comes with being an examiner of knowledge. His path deftly reveals the threads between being an author, Professor, and higher education Administrator.   Episode summary by Domenick Castellano, MA in English Produced and edited by Alex Pavljuk, BA in Communication and Media Studies

Aniya Butler, MBA student and Graduate Assistant for University College, stops by the podcast to showcase her college experience at Montclair. Alongside host, Natalie Lopez, Butler reveals how to successfully manage several roles and responsibilities, from Presidential Scholar to HR aspirations to helpful tips for incoming freshmen.    Episode summary by Domenick Castellano, MA in English Produced and edited by Alex Daly, Sports and Communication major

Montclair State University is proud to have its own police department on campus. Led by Chief Kieran Barrett, the department provides law enforcement and security services 24/7. Chief Barrett takes time out of his day to join us on the podcast to share his educational path, balancing adjunct professorship and the importance of building community.   Produced and edited by Grace Keane, Film and TV major

Dr. Chantelle Wright, Executive Director for Experiential Education and Career Connections, joins host Tabitha Riley for a discussion on all things– growing up in the Caribbean, determining career direction, and the powerful combination of empathy and intuition. Dr. Wright thoughtfully shares her perspective on the pandemic as well, and how focus can be developed amid chaos.   Edited by Anthony Cafone, Sports Communication major

Montclair alumnus and Instructional Specialist Henry Margenau and Public and Professional Writing student Stephanie Rim share their insights on the major – its generous scope, benefits, and immediate applicability in the real world.  This conversation covers all the bases, from horrifying typos to favorite words, and why you should embrace the GNEDs.   Edited by Danielle Vuono, Journalism and Digital Media major

No stranger to the podcast world, inveterate Higher Education player Jeff Poulos lends his voice and story to I Do Declare!, carefully pointing out how elevating from a comfort zone is key to opening doors. Leveraging his network through information interviews, reaching out and simply keeping in touch, Jeff keeps his finger on the pulse of his career development while supporting others with theirs.   Edited by Daniel Amorim, Film and Television major

A proud Montclair alumnus, Hannah Lindeblad’s talent for art set the foundation for a future in managing student communications here at Montclair. Having worked for the Rec Center’s marketing department, Hannah’s hands-on experience led to synergies between graphic design, social media, photos, videos, and the web. Taking part in intentional cohort experiences in graduate school ultimately solidified her interest in Higher Education.   Edited by Lara Ziccardi, Journalism and Digital Media major

Podcast Host Natalie Lopez chats with Hannah Terhune, former University Fellow and Graduate Academic Programming Coordinator in University College. From the rigors of earning a double major and now graduate school, to juggling campus involvement, Hannah credits her teachers, advisors, and peers as a source of inspiration. Safe to say, Hannah’s varied experience in Higher Education led her to pursue this field's calling.   Edited by Devin Castillo, Journalism and Digital Media major

Aidan Ping stops by the podcast to share his journey, from exploring arts coursework in High School to getting hands-on as a Film and Television major. Sci-fi escapism fuels his passion for script writing, directing, and film production. Aidan highlights the importance of getting out there and becoming involved, noting his involvement in Phi Delta Theta, 90.3 WMSC, and Players.    Edited by Danielle Vuono, Journalism and Digital Media major

A member of University College’s inaugural Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies graduating class, Martin Soto looks at giving back to the community, breaking through self-imposed limits, and creating a post-retirement encore career.    Edited by Brandon Marrazzo, Sports Communication major

Jason Frasca, Entrepreneurship Professor and Co-Director MIX Lab - Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship, joins the podcast for a robust conversation on innovation, design thinking, and disruption. He thoughtfully addresses the intersection of careers and subsequent opportunities, and how vulnerability leads to change.   Edited by Nevaeh Corvington, English Major

Podcast Host Natalie Lopez chats with Eric Okai, Sociology alum and Social Work graduate student, as he discusses how student org involvement proved to be a game-changer, along with the need to challenge your own thoughts. Founder of the RISE (Responsibility Integrity Service and Excellence) Mentor Program, Eric outlines his dynamic social and emotional learning program.   Edited by Nervaeh Corvington, English Major

Podcast host, Tabitha Riley chats with Senior Ryan Breyta as he shares his passions surrounding the Journalism and Digital Media major and, in particular, how transferable skills and storytelling are essential to professional development. Taking advantage of Student Life experiences, including active involvement in his fraternity, WMSC, Peer Mentoring–all helped him grow and make Montclair his home. Edited by Campbell Donovan, Sports Communication major

Natalyn Peralta stops by the podcast to share her story as a Business Administration major with a concentration in Management. She carefully notes the benefits of being involved in campus orgs (Circle K, LASO, etc) and taking advantage of campus resources, including Career Services, Tutorial Services, and The Writing Center. Edited by Allison Bratsch, Advertising major

Bea Mundo joins us to talk Child Advocacy and Policy, covering her journey from pre-major right up to Senior year. Bea takes a minute to highlight the benefits of taking part in Crash-a-Class, one of University College's major exploration programs that give students the opportunity to sit in on a class and take it “for a ride.” This program ultimately led Bea to declare her major. Edited by Amir Williams, Sports Communication major

Arianna Mantilla deftly illustrates how a love of learning and an Intro to Sociology course led to career direction in Criminal Justice. She goes on to outline her experience with pursuing a combined degree program (BA/MA) and having the foresight to take advantage of campus resources.   Edited by Rena Hailey, Dance and Film/TV majors and engineered by Ardi Emini, History major

MSU alum and Social Media Manager Paul McGroarty stops by the podcast to share his insights on storytelling, trusting your instincts and the merging of interests. Paul also addresses daily content creation and the collaboration required to execute successful SM campaigns.   Edited by Macy Tartanella, Film and TV major

Dr. Daphne Galkin shares her journey from English major to Montclair State’s Associate Dean of University College! Leadership is discussed, including data-informed decision-making and team development.   Edited by Miriam Aguirre, Social Media/Public Relations major and engineered by Ardi Emin, History major

Tabitha Riley discusses how her Theater degree paradoxically prepared her for a career outside of the arts and how she uses those degree-based skills in Higher Education. Looking ahead, Tabitha shares her goal of one day becoming a Dean of Students and how juggling a career and pursuing her doctoral degree are all doable!   Edited by Jo Schwitzer, Film and TV major and engineered by Ardi Emini, History major

Alyssa Leslie Villasenor, Engagement and Outreach Coordinator for MSUs University Galleries, shares how childhood interests and a passion for community-building led to a meaningful calling. The Galleries revolutionary program–Art on Your Terms–is discussed as well, where students are paid to review works of art!    Edited by Rena Hailey, Dance and Film/TV majors

Marilyn Moya, MSU alum and Administrative Assistant in the Office for Hispanic Initiatives, joins us to share her considerable journey. We discuss MSUs Hispanic Student College Institute (HSCI), the Pre-College Access Institute (PCAI) and why “it’s ok not to know…” –great advice given the sheer number of educational and career complexities out there.   Edited by Mike Foley, TVDM Major

Dr. Enza Antenos, CHSS Assistant Professor of World Languages & Cultures and Director of the Language, Business and Culture major, joins us for a candid discussion on the value of cultivating mentors, global business proliferation and L'Oréal’s groundbreaking True Match campaign as it relates to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion!  Edited by Mase Minetti, TVDM major

The Director of College of Education and Human Services (CEHS) Career Services, Linda Flynn, sits down with us for a refreshing and far-reaching conversation –we cover the job market for teachers, COVIDs effect on Public Health careers, athletic training and the reason why CEHS students choose this College—the opportunity to give back to others. Edited by Tara Cicchetti.

An episode years in the making!  Former University College pre-major student, now Business Administration major and SGA President, Ashon Lanada joins us for an insightful conversation on all things college -- from internships, networking, the power of ambition, being involved on campus and the power of “why.” This episode is not be missed! Edited by Amanda Brown

Discover the fascinating world of neuroscience with MSUs very own Dr. Julian Keenan, Professor of Biology in CSAM!  This incredible multidisciplinary field combines physiology, anatomy, molecular biology, developmental biology and more.  Dr. Keenan shares his establishment and ongoing research in MSUs Cognitive Neuroimaging Laboratory as well - this episode is not to be missed!   Edited by Mase Minetti, TVDM major

Tune-in for an in-depth look at all things Science and Mathematics as Dr. Scott Kight, Associate Dean, CSAM shares his journey and what it takes to be a CSAM major!   Edited by Ben Petruk, Journalism major

Interested in learning more about the Television and Digital Media (TVDM) major?  Tune-in to hear about MSUs own TJ Lewis as he shares his insightful journey from University College pre-major student to declaring his major in the College of the Arts!   Edited by Mase Minetti, TVDM major

Lindsey & Bobby are joined by Peter & Eileen from the Feliciano School of Business to talk about all your options for declaring into the Business Admin major! 

GSWS is the perfect major for students who are passionate about social justice or are looking to have a meaningful impact on society.   Lindsey & Bobby are joined by Dr. Jessica Restaino (Director of Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies) to take a deep dive into the major.