Associate Dean, Advising & Student Belonging
- Email: sabra712@mit.edu
Hometown: Trinidad & Tobago and Queens, NYC
What did you study in undergrad? B.A. in Psychology (SUNY College at Old Westbury) Grad school? M.Ed. in College Student Affairs (Rutgers University); M.A. in Mind, Brain & Education (Harvard University).
What was your favorite experience as an undergrad? One of my favorite experiences as an undergrad was serving in various student leadership roles. As a first-generation, low-income student, I embraced work-study positions at the writing center, student activities office, and as a science and math advisor, while also being a resident assistant in the dorms. These roles enhanced my learning experience, fostering personal growth and equipping me with essential skills for the world of work post-graduation.
What are your interests/hobbies? Trying new recipes, running, biking, trivia, watching documentaries, and traveling!
What is your favorite thing about MIT? So far my co-workers in the UAC and the students! Could not ask for better people!
What advice do you have for MIT students? My advice for MIT undergraduates is “What got you here, will not necessarily gonna get you there”. It’s not meant to a downer, but more of an encouragement to continuously expand your toolbox of skills, approaches, and perspectives. Don’t hesitate to adapt and evolve, recognizing that old strategies may not always serve new challenges effectively. Remain open to growth and innovation as you navigate your academic and personal journey at MIT.
Fun fact? I speak four languages beyond English! Patios (Caribbean Dialect), AAVE (African American Vernacular English), Spanish (Conversational), and Arabic (Beginner).