Lucia Goyen

How did being in New York impact your professional journey?

Without Wagner and New York, I truly do not believe that I would be where I am today nor would I have had the experiences I did. Being here allowed me to intern at two wonderful, top-level organizations, Human Rights Watch and WaterAid America. Additionally, I was able to connect with and meet advocates from many social justice organizations and movements, something that does not really exist on a similar scale in other cities in the US. New York City is always on the forefront of pushing progressive policies and initiatives forward, and being here allowed me to partake in that.

How did your Wagner experience prepare you professionally for what you are doing today?

I am working in the immigration field, something that I zeroed in on while at Wagner. My theoretical classes taught me background and the skills needed to understand cultural contexts. My practical classes allowed me to develop my skills in program management and evaluation. My experience in planning events on campus enhanced my organizational and logistical skills.

WHAT IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO MAKE?

I hope to be a connector for various groups across NY State and continue to bring resources and access to the most underserved areas in the Lower Hudson Valley. I hope to strengthen the connectivity between immigration legal and immigration advocates, and find more space to support those who cannot move forward in their immigration case but are still a valuable part of our society. I want to find ways to bring them more access to jobs, mental health resources, and other resources that will help them thrive as much as possible.