BMCC CUNY Start

CUNY Start Program Day for Spring 2026 was a success. Thanks to the following offices for sending representatives to speak with our students: ASAP, BMCC Learning Academy, College Discovery, Counseling Center, Internships, Library Study Abroad.

Thanks to Sharon Reid and Sandra Cortez for speaking about Internships and Study Abroad to CUNY Start, Math Start & Jump Start students.

Tabetha Mack‑Ouattara and Raven Shelton’s strong rapport was unmistakable, and together they showcased the BMCC Counseling Center as a warm, welcoming, and truly supportive space filled with valuable resources for our students.

CUNY Start thanks the ladies from ASAP BMCC & College Discovery at BMCC for engaging with students at our Program Day.

CUNY Start extends a big thank you to Bouampoundi Thiombiano for representing the BMCC Learning Academy—a Success Program supporting students on the Undeclared Health–Nursing Pathway, as well as Community Health and Public Health majors.

We’re grateful for Bouampoundi’s insight as she shared what it truly takes to enter the nursing major, highlighted meaningful non clinical career options, and emphasized the value of having a strong backup plan.

Our students left informed, empowered, and inspired!

Director Lashallah Burgess kicked off Program Day by welcoming CUNY Start students to an event designed each semester to connect them with the many offices and services available once they matriculate.

One of the most valuable resources highlighted was the A. Phillip Randolph Library at BMCC. Professor Sharell Walker joined us to share insights into the library’s wide range of services and to guide our scholars through the essentials of media literacy.

A great start to a day focused on empowering students with the tools they need to thrive! 📚✨

These CUNY Start English students stepped into the spotlight and delivered powerful, thoughtful acceptance speeches—earning extra credit and their very own “solid gold” statue for their work! 🏆

For this assignment, students wrote an imagined award acceptance speech for author Julia Alvarez, using First Muse as their sole source. Through careful reading and creative thinking, they reflected on Alvarez’s journey and highlighted the people, challenges, and experiences that shaped her voice as a writer.

Thank you to Professor Sherry Mason for once again challenging her students to read closely, write with purpose, and bring literature to life in such an engaging way. This is student-centered learning at its best!

Nothing warms our hearts more than seeing genuine connection through learning. Rhonda recently recommended Carry On by John Lewis to her students, and one student returned it with a simple, thoughtful note:

“Thank you for letting me borrow this book. This is an interesting and nice read.”

Moments like this show the impact Rhonda has every day—guiding, inspiring, and sharing knowledge that sticks. ❤️📚
Here’s to advisors who go the extra mile. Thank you, Rhonda!

Women have always been at the forefront of change, strengthening our communities, advancing justice and expanding opportunity for all.

This Women’s History Month, we honor the women who have led movements, shaped our schools, hospitals and public services, and built a more inclusive democracy. From educators and healthcare workers to public employees and union leaders, women continue to lead every day.

We celebrate their leadership and recommit to the fight for a better life for all.

Due to severe weather conditions, all CUNY colleges and offices will shift to remote learning and work on Monday, January 26, 2026. Essential staff is expected to report to work, please consult with your campus or office.

FAO Schwarz Fellowship – Lead the change. The FAO Schwarz Fellowship is a transformative two-year paid Fellowship experience in social impact designed for graduating college seniors.

Meet Mamadou! 🌟 Quiet and steady, Mamadou reminds us that success isn’t about being the loudest voice—it’s about showing up, staying focused, and embracing the learning process. His calm presence and openness to growth prove that persistence and curiosity can speak louder than words. Let Mamadou’s example inspire you: progress happens one step at a time, so keep learning, keep moving forward, and trust the journey!