Geneva Subtyl '13

When Geneva Subtyl ’13 found out that she’d been accepted to QCC, she hadn’t even realized that she applied to the CUNY institution. That’s because she had her hopes set on attending a four year school. But after receiving her acceptance letter from QCC, Subtyl quickly began applying for scholarships. This part she does remember because she did not receive the Academic Merit Scholarship for which she applied. Instead, once more to her surprise, she was awarded the Queensborough Presidential Scholarship.

“The award letter came in the mail about a week or so before the semester began and a day before my birthday,” says Subtyl. “I considered it a birthday gift from God. Not only did I get accepted, but also my tuition was fully paid and financial aid provided textbooks and transportation.”

While continuing her academic excellence at QCC, making the Dean’s List and serving on the President’s Council, Subtyl decided that she also wanted to build her work experience. She had previously lost her job at Red Mango and was seeking new employment.

“I was looking online for a job when I came across the student job page on the CUNY website,” she says. “When I read the brief description for the CUNY/311 Project, it jumped out at me. I clicked on the link, read the requirements and qualifications, and I knew it was for me. “

After conducting her own research, Subtyl then contacted the Office of Career Services where she met with Ms. Strauss, the Career Advisement Coordinator.  “Ms. Strauss helped me craft my resume and guided me through the application process for the position,” says Subtyl.

With the addition of her new job, transportation would become pivotal for Subtyl while at QCC. The travel from her Saint Albans home to campus would extend to a further commute to Lower Manhattan.  

“The job is about 15 miles from my house,” she says. “I travel about one and a half to two hours on the train and bus.” But no matter the arrival time, when she gets to 59 Maiden Lane, a typical day ensues.

“I walk in, put my belongings in my locker and walk to my desk with my headset, notepad and pen in hand, just about five minutes before the start of my shift. I then log into the system and wait for the calls to come in.”

And while answering phones calls is not her dream job, Subtyl hopes to one day answer her own calling. She is in the process of attaining her Associate degree in Liberal Arts with a focus in Nursing.

“I plan to become a world renowned Forensic Nurse,” she says. “After I finish my prerequisites at QCC, I am going to transfer to a four year school where I can earn my Bachelor’s in Nursing.”

Subtyl then plans to relocate to upstate New York to continue her studies and specialize in the field. Her advice, “you just have to be patient and wait for something greater to come your way.”