Student Success Stories
Meet some of our adult students that form part of CSI Reconnect. All our students have unique stories and experiences to tell regarding their return to higher education. This could be you!
Amanda Musto
Reconnect student, Amanda Musto made the difficult decision to come back to finish her degree after a 7-year gap, and after having had a rough last semester. However, she proved that the hard decision can be the right decision, as she came back with a new spark and determination to not only succeed, but surpass expectations, getting straight As and graduating a semester early—Amanda graduate on June 2026. Like most adult students, Amanda struggled with having to juggle work, a full-time class schedule, and taking on the role of Editor in Chief of the Banner, the CSI student-run newspaper. Alongside, her co-editor in chief, and other news staff, she was able to bring the Banner back to life after a slow down since the pandemic.
The Banner offered Amanda more than just a space to write and edit but also created a community for her. "It seemed like I wouldn’t make friends because I was coming back as an adult, but I have made so many great friends that have helped make this experience even better than I could have imagined," she said.
Amanda’s goals are to work at a publishing house or newspaper as an editor, as well as publishing her first novel. Her independent studies with professors and her work with the Banner surely have helped her strengthen her craft. She is truly an exceptional example for any other adult students looking to reach that next level of success.
Melanie Ortiz
Reconnect Student Spotlight, Melanie Ortiz has worked as an administrative assistant with the NYC Department of Buildings, as an executive assistant with the NYC Department of Transportation, and as a job coach at the NYC Parks Department. However, her goal is to begin her career as a history teacher as well as pursue a master's degree once she has completed her bachelor's degree. “This will benefit my children and I in such a positive way,” she states. “It was nerve wrecking returning as an adult learner. My fears and doubts were heightened. Everyone from the Reconnect Department has helped me with transitioning back to school after sixteen years.” Melanie was able to work with the Reconnect team who helped her through the process of returning and answered all her questions. She was also a recipient of the Reconnect Grant, which opened the door for her return to college. “As a single mother, finances are a big issue for me. As always, my children’s needs come first, which at times leaves my needs behind. The grant gave me that opportunity and freedom to finally finish an important goal of mine. Now I can truly be a genuine role model for my children. I preach the importance of education and what better way for them to see this as being true!”
Raveena S. Bernard
Reconnect student, Raveena S. Bernard began college 11 years after finishing high school. She found herself struggling during her first semester having to reaccustom herself to the classroom, being a full-time student while also working full time, as well as the fact that English is not her first language. Despite the challenges, Raveena managed to pass all her courses, obtaining a 3.5 GPA. She is currently living one of her biggest dreams of going to college and pursuing a degree. Her plan is to complete her bachelor’s and then master’s degree. ”I would like to be a social worker for immigrants and refugees and would love to work with the United Nations.” Raveena’s future is bright as she shares that she has an upcoming interview for a community service internship from CUNY Spring Forward. She also shares that she is a member of the Woman in Tech Club at CSI. She attributes a good amount of her current success to her academic advisor, Tharu Arachchi, as well as Kristi Brescia from the Computer Science department, who offered support in applying for internships