So what is your year, major and expected graduation date?
I’m a Junior, studying political science. I plan to graduate in 2016.
What are all the titles you hold, as well as any clubs you are in?
I’ve been incredibly lucky to have the opportunities to serve as a Student Association Senator representing Dutch Quad; as the Assistant Director—then Director—of Legislative Affairs for the Student Association; and as the Chief of Staff, and currently, the Vice President for our students.
As a senator I represented the interests of those students living on Dutch Quad. I did my best to meet with as many of my constituents on Dutch as possible in an effort grasp which issues were most important to students. Serving as a senator gave me insight into how the student association worked, and provided an avenue to meet several administrators and community leaders.
While working in the Legislative Affairs Department I compiled the legislative agenda comprised of state and federal issues affecting college students. Among our initiatives was strong advocacy for capital investment funds and increases in tuition assistance offered by the state.
As Chief of Staff I served as the principle advisor to the President on matters involving policy and personnel. Working under President Agyemang taught me quite a bit about managing a staff, formulating policies, working with departments to accomplish tasks and how to best serve the student body.
What does the typical day in the life of Marc Cohen look like?
There really is no typical day in my life, which I enjoy because it keeps me on my toes! I try and wake up early each day during the week to grab some breakfast in the campus center. This gives me a chance to talk with dining staff and a few students. After a quick bite I’ll head into the office to check emails and return calls. I try and meet with my Chief of Staff to go over the day ahead and catch up on any tasks I have to finish up. Depending on the semester I have two or three classes in a day (which I, of course, never miss!)
I try and set aside time each day in the early afternoon for some lunch with friends or the staff. On any given day I’ll usually have a student meeting or two as well as meetings with President Agyemang and a handful of Directors. On different days each week the senior staff of SA meets with various administrators from different university departments to provide them with updates on our activity. This also provides an opportunity for them to update us on the university’s plans and get input from the students’ perspective.
Then you have the various hearings, ceremonies, emergencies, conferences, speeches, and strategy sessions that can spring up at a moment’s notice.
What are some of your personal and professional highlights since attending UAlbany?
My time at UAlbany has been fulfilling and exciting. Obviously having the opportunity to serve the student body as a member of the Student Association has been among the greatest highlights of my college career. I’ve also made incredible lifelong friends and had the chance to network with leaders in areas such as politics, business, and higher education. I’ve interned with Lieutenant Governor Duffy, participated as a Purple and Gold Ambassador, involved myself in the Rockefeller College Dean’s Leadership Council, Presidential Honors Society, and the UAS Board of Directors. I try and use my involvement in such groups to represent students as best I can. Be it acting as the mouth piece for students or engaging other students in the decision making process, my goal is to ensure that any decisions influencing the university community will only be made after the voice of students have been heard.
What’s next for Marc Cohen?
I plan to apply for the BA/MPA program through Rockefeller College. I’m also weighing my options in terms of law school.
(Photo courtesy of Marc Cohen)