MIDDLETOWN, N.Y. – A jubilant student with a passion for global history, influenced by a motivating Middletown high school teacher and encouraged by a beloved grandmother--Alexis Rios Mendez could not be happier pursuing his education at SUNY Orange in the Jointly Registered Teacher Education Program (JRTEP).

 

“I was not sure I would be able to attend college,” Mendez said. “My grandmother always encourages me, and while I attended Middletown High School, she told me a high school diploma is not enough. Once I had more information about financial aid, I was happy to be able to come to SUNY Orange. I received a scholarship from the Middletown Rotary Club and will attend the SUNY Orange Alumni Foundation event on November 6.”

 

Mendez learned about the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at SUNY Orange before the Fall semester started. EOP provides access, academic support, and modest financial assistance to make higher education possible for talented students with limited resources who have great academic promise but whose life circumstances have not permitted them to reach their full capacity.

 

EOP Success Coach Hector Leal shares, “The EOP Program is an excellent fit for Alexis, a SUNY Orange student with so much potential. He has a success coach who will help him achieve his goals. Since meeting Alexis at his high school last year, I knew he would be a great success, and we are here to assist, motivate, and guide him toward his goal of being a history teacher and a role model for future students.”

 

Students accepted to the program must attend a three-week in-person summer academy. During this time, students explore career opportunities and simultaneously familiarize themselves with numerous campus spaces, including the Wellness Center and the Library.

 

“To me,” Mendez said with a joyful smile, “it was like a summer camp; fun and very helpful.”

 

Asked about his experience with Mendez, adjunct history instructor Henry Bierling said, “Alexis is an interesting young man. He dresses as I do, with a shirt and tie, which certainly sets him apart from his fellow students. He is one of the students most eager to participate in class discussions, and after class, he often stops to say something to me, which not many students do.”

 

In addition to frequent formal attire, Mendez wears an ever-present special gift of a crucifix necklace. When asked about his clothing choices, he enthusiastically explains, “I like to dress up. It looks professional and mature while showing character. I also think it will lead to better job opportunities.”

 

An involved church member, he works several jobs and animatedly admits to being labeled positive and upbeat since childhood. “I always want to be active. I had a good childhood filled with many adventures and dancing. I dance almost every day,” and despite occasionally walking 20 minutes to campus, Mendez adds, “I have nothing to complain about in my life.”

 

Describing the focus of his education, Mendez shares, “When I was a sophomore, I had a global history teacher, Mrs. Dowdy, and I was inspired after taking her class. I have known since then that I want to be a high school global history teacher. After SUNY Orange, I plan on attending SUNY New Paltz to reach my goal, which is why I am in JRTEP.”

 

JRTEP is for students who plan to transfer to SUNY New Paltz or another SUNY school and become certified to teach in New York State in either early childhood, childhood or adolescent education. Developed by SUNY Orange and SUNY New Paltz, this jointly registered liberal arts/teacher education program has been approved by the New York State Education Department.

 

Mendez is currently the EOP Club vice president and a member of the Mi Gente club. Born in Puerto Rico, English is his second language; he fully embraces and recommends taking advantage of the tutoring opportunities available at the College.

 

"One of the reasons I would recommend SUNY Orange to others is that the College provides so many services. I can receive help with my classes either by a referral or on my own. If anyone is struggling, they should speak to their teacher, and 100 percent they will help you," said Mendez.

 

English Professor Sue Pendergast said, “He is a very positive and confident student. He goes out of his way to ensure he gets the assignments done--and done correctly. He engages easily within the in-person classroom setting. His respect for his professor and fellow students is atypical and much appreciated. I only wish I had more students like Alexis in my classes.”

 

Working through a full-time schedule of five classes, Mendez candidly shares that he is making good progress. He beams while sharing that he is thankful to “a lot of people who have given me so much love” and encouragement to keep him moving toward his goal.

 

To learn more about the Education Opportunity Program and eligibility requirements visit https://sunyorange.edu/eop. For more information about transfer options after receiving your degree at SUNY Orange go to https://sunyorange.edu/transfer.