Stony Brook University student Marzia Amin has been selected as one of nine students statewide to join the inaugural cohort of the State University of New York (SUNY) Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Career Development Internship Program. This initiative is part of SUNY's commitment to providing high-quality experiential opportunities for its students before graduation.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. emphasized the program's importance, stating, "For over 50 years, the SUNY Educational Opportunity Program has been a driving force in student success and upward mobility. The launch of the EOP Career Development Internship Program marks another significant milestone in SUNY’s mission to empower our incredible EOP students with the resources they need to thrive. This initiative offers invaluable professional experience with New York State agencies, setting students on a clear path to successful careers, including in public service."
Marzia Amin, a junior majoring in health sciences and an EOP success coach and mentor, expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity: "This internship will provide me with invaluable hands-on experience in mental health care and observation. As a Health Science student, directly working with and observing patients will deepen my understanding of mental health disorders beyond what any textbook can teach. It will strengthen my commitment to pursuing a career in healthcare and teach me the importance of compassionate, patient-centered care."
Pam Matzner, director of EOP at Stony Brook, praised Amin's selection: "We are incredibly proud of Marzia Amin for being selected as part of the inaugural cohort for the SUNY EOP Career Development Internship Program. This program is a testament to the power of the Educational Opportunity Program, and Marzia’s selection speaks to her dedication, ambition, and the incredible potential she brings to the table. I have no doubt that this experience will provide her with valuable professional skills and open doors for her future career. We look forward to continuing to support her journey as she thrives in this unique opportunity."
The program aims to connect students with New York State agencies while they complete their degrees and prepare for their careers by offering real-world professional experience aligned with their academic pursuits and personal interests. It also provides personalized mentorship and financial support addressing basic needs such as transportation or other accessibility issues that might hinder participation.
Governor Hochul announced last February that SUNY campuses would invest nearly $10 million in recurring state funding to offer internships and other experiential learning opportunities before graduation. This funding comes from a historic $163 million increase in direct operating aid allocated for FY 2024.
Over its 50-year history, SUNY EOP has supported more than 85,000 graduates, contributing significantly to workforce development within New York State.