Suffolk Reporter

Stony Brook University student Marzia Amin has been chosen as one of nine students statewide for the inaugural cohort of the State University of New York (SUNY) Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Career Development Internship Program. This initiative aims to provide high-quality experiential opportunities for SUNY students before graduation, with up to 50 eligible EOP students participating in its first year and receiving up to $5,000.

SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. highlighted the program's significance: “For over 50 years, the SUNY Educational Opportunity Program has been a driving force in student success and upward mobility. The launch of the EOP Career Development Internship Program marks another significant milestone in SUNY’s mission to empower our incredible EOP students with the resources they need to thrive."

Marzia Amin, a junior majoring in health sciences and an EOP success coach and mentor, expressed her enthusiasm: “This internship will provide me with invaluable hands-on experience in mental health care and observation. As a Health Science student, directly working with and observing patients will deepen my understanding of mental health disorders beyond what any textbook can teach.”

Pam Matzner, director of EOP at Stony Brook, praised Amin's selection: “We are incredibly proud of Marzia Amin for being selected as part of the inaugural cohort for the SUNY EOP Career Development Internship Program. This program is a testament to the power of the Educational Opportunity Program, and Marzia’s selection speaks to her dedication, ambition, and the incredible potential she brings to the table."

The program connects students with New York State agencies while they complete their degrees and prepare for careers by providing real-world professional experience that aligns with their academic pursuits. It also offers personalized mentorship and financial support to help overcome accessibility hurdles.

Governor Hochul previously announced nearly $10 million in recurring state funding would be invested by SUNY campuses to offer internships and other learning opportunities before graduation. This was made possible through a historic $163 million increase in direct operating aid for FY 2024.

SUNY EOP has supported more than 85,000 graduates over its 50-year history, contributing significantly to workforce development in New York.