Dianne Galasso

"Graduating from CUNY SPS... was the first of many steps on my way to changing careers.”

Why did you choose CUNY SPS? 

I chose CUNY SPS because it offered an online psychology program which was convenient for my work schedule, and because of CUNY’s reputation for academic excellence and affordability.

What most appealed to you about your CUNY SPS degree program?

I was looking to make a change in my career and I felt CUNY SPS was the right fit from the start!  The information session I attended affirmed what I knew – CUNY SPS was where I belonged. CUNY SPS staff made the process of returning to school less intimidating.

How did you find your online/classroom interaction with other students?  With faculty?  

Online interactions with other students are what you make them.  As a friendly, outgoing person I tended to be more personal in my posts which allowed other students to get to know a bit of my personality.  Interactions with professors and faculty were positive.  If I had questions I’d usually hear back within 24 hours.  Some professors were more engaged with Blackboard than others, but overall the experience was positive, helpful, and supportive. 

What were some of the most defining aspects of your time at CUNY SPS?  

I have a few defining moments that will stay with me forever.  During my second semester, I had this wonderful “a-ha” moment. I knew I loved learning about people which was why psychology interested me, but it was during this time that I realized it’s more than curiosity, it’s by design–this is what I was meant to do.  It was a true revelation of my identity.  Another special time was receiving the 2016 Vice Chancellor’s Leadership Award.  I was (and still am) so proud and honored.  This was another validation for me in pursuing this dream. 

What is the most important thing you learned at CUNY SPS?  

I take with me the theories, concepts, and tools I’ve learned throughout my years at CUNY SPS, but my most valuable take away was learning to believe in myself.  For many years I allowed a lack of confidence and fear of failure keep me from pursuing my dream of working in some capacity in the psychology field.  My successful experience at CUNY SPS shattered all doubt I had in myself. 

How has your CUNY SPS degree influenced your career?  

Graduating from CUNY SPS with my BA in Psychology was the first of many steps on my way to changing careers to be of service in the mental health field.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?  

In my current position, the most rewarding aspect would be when I get to speak to those who are new to the medical center.  I love interacting with people and feel really good when I can help them overcome obstacles in their new transition.

Where do you see yourself in five years?  

I see myself passing the social work clinical exam and celebrating my new job as an LCSW!  I hope to be working with children and adults in a psychotherapy capacity.  Wherever I will be in 5 years, I will ALWAYS have CUNY SPS to thank for setting the course in action! 

Outside the Classroom

• Favorite sports? Favorite team?  Giants and Yankees!!!  Die-hard Yankee fan since I’m 9 – and that’s a lot of years!!!
• Favorite subway line?  Least favorite subway line? Hmmm…I’d say favorite subway lines are the F and D trains because the F leads me to my best friend’s home and the D leads to mine!  Least favorite…any number trains because they confuse me! Ha!
• Netflix, Hulu, Cable, all three, neither?  Cable, so that I can watch Blue Bloods!  Love that family! 
• Favorite NYC attraction?  Favorite NYC cultural institution?  A completely impossible question to answer for me because I love NYC and everything about it.  Walking the highlight, roaming Union Square, upper west side.  I will say that I am an avid and frequent theatergoer and try to get to Broadway at least once a month! 
• Favorite artist/band? None of the above.  My taste varies but I tend to go with a more light rock, pop, ballad feel….like Bon Jovi, Bruno Mars, Celine Dion, and CeCe Winans. 
• Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, none, all?  Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and I hate to admit this one, but I have SnapChat too so I can keep an eye on my nieces and nephews!  Ha
• Book or e-reader?  Favorite title or the most recent title you read?   Definitely books!  I’m currently reading Karen Kingsbury’s book series.   I tend to buy a lot of books having to do with psychology and/or areas to help one so I thought the Kingsbury books would be a good change of pace for me during the summer!  I’m also reading Do You Have a Return Ticket by Weston.

Read more about Bachelor of Arts in Psychology