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A Miami Moment with ... Valerie Robinson

11/01/2012

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Valerie Robinson

Valerie Robinson remembers the student from Puerto Rico. The young woman came to Miami for a campus visit, and from there, the now alumna's education journey took her through Miami's Graduate School and on to her dream job in Chicago. Also a Miami Graduate School alumna and current doctoral candidate, Robinson loves to tell this success story when she offers encouragement to prospective students. Robinson is the director of diversity enhancement for Miami's Graduate School.

Q: How did you meet the student?
A: She was a McNair Scholar who came to visit Miami six months before she applied. At first, she struggled with English since it is her second language, but she got the support she needed. I distinctly remember her department’s faculty who stepped up to encourage her. Miami made a difference in her life. She is now doing what she really wanted to do, working as a bilingual teacher in the Chicago area. She is considering returning for her doctorate. She also gives back to Miami by volunteering with me in my recruiting efforts.

Q: What do you share with prospective students?
A: I get them thinking about applying to graduate school. One of my priorities in my job is to recruit diverse domestic graduate students. Some students are hesitant about applying to graduate school, even though they are academically prepared. I provide encouragement, support and step-by-step guidance. I make sure they understand that graduate school is a commitment, but it is achievable. I also make sure they know that although we are located in a small community, we are near major cities that provide numerous opportunities for professional growth and cultural experiences. But most importantly, our faculty are committed to the success of our students.

Q: As a doctoral candidate with many experiences, what advice do you have for current students?
A: I tell students to stay focused. I also try to provide information on resources when needed. I give them an ear outside of their academic program. The biggest part is showing them the benefit of building a community ‘outside’ of their academic community, especially for our diverse student population, so they can find support in a number of places. I advise the Graduate Students of Color Association, another opportunity for them. I am very lucky. I work with a great team who share the same level of focus and commitment as I do, which really helps me succeed. I am now a doctoral candidate in the student affairs program. My coursework is complete. It’s been a wonderful journey.

Q: Our graduate students will present their graduate research this week (Friday, Nov. 2) at the Graduate Research Forum. What can attendees expect, and what research are you pursuing?
A: My research focuses on access to graduate education for first-generation African American college students. I am looking for a better understanding of the paths they take to graduate education. As a first-generation college student, I am particularly interested in this line of research. The forum is a wonderful opportunity for our students to share their original research with the Miami community. The forum features oral presentations and poster sessions showcasing the depth of knowledge they are creating.