Over the years Project MALES has been fortunate to have graduate students come to be a part of our mentoring and research projects. This year we are excited to welcome DeAna McCusky and Jorge Rodriguez to our PM team. We asked a DeAna and Jorge to share a little bit about themselves including, their new roles with Project MALES and why they joined the PM team, here is what they shared.
DeAna McCusky
Tell us a about yourself:
I am from Madison, WI and a proud graduate of UW Madison. I have a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania in Education. I am an avid sports fan especially when it comes to the Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers.
What program are you in?
I am in the 2nd year of the Program in Higher Educational Administration
What are your research interests?
My research interests involve the experiences of Latina doctoral students who are balancing motherhood
Where were you working with prior to working with Project MALES?
Prior to joining Project MALES, I worked for the University Leadership Network supporting a cohort of 500 first-year students.
Why did you join the PM team?
As a Latina who has seen the educational achievement of family members and our community lagging, I am committed to any work that seeks to bridge that gap. Also, I was eager to work with and learn from Dr. Saenz and the rest of the PM team.
What will your role be with PM?
I am a Graduate Research Associate who will be focused on supporting the PM research agenda.
What are you looking forward to the most in this role?
Refining my research skills and working with a dynamic team to improve the educational opportunities of Latino students in Texas.
Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
I am very excited to join the team and look forward to working with everyone for this noble cause!
Jorge L. Rodriguez
Tell us a about yourself:
I grew up in Eagle Pass, a border town across from Piedras Engross. Growing up I never knew the importance of my education, however that didn’t stop me from trying to excel in school. I attribute that to the support I received from my family and friends. I grew up in a low-income household, and I am a first generation college graduate.
What program are you in?
I am a first year in the College and University Student Personnel Administration Program.
What are your research interests?
My research interest involve minority males in Higher education, the impact family’s income has on attaining a post-secondary education, and equity in education.
Where were you working with prior to working with Project MALES?
I was working with Advise TX as a College Advisor.
Why did you join the PM team?
I joined Project MALES because one of their missions is to increase male students of color educational potential by providing mentoring. One of the things that I appreciate from this organization is that, Project MALES meets with students from a young age to ensure that they have the resources and support they need to be successful.
What will your role be with PM?
I will be one of the Mentoring Site Coordinators for the PM Mentoring Program.
What are you looking forward to the most in this role?
I am looking forward to working with our undergraduates to support them in effectively reaching out and mentoring our students.
Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
I am looking forward to meeting and working with the rest of the Project MALES staff and mentors.
