CSTEP Alumni

The success of CSTEP alumni highlights the importance of continuing to make key investments in the education and career of CSTEP students, including high impact resources, and engagement with alumni.

Our alumni expand the footprint of CSTEP at UB and maintain the momentum of our program through their support. 

We encourage CSTEP alumni to continue to engage with our students and program by sharing their expertise and connections with CSTEP, by serving as:

Here is what our alumni are saying about us:

Portrait of Joel Urena smiling.

Dr. Joel Urena

“CSTEP not only gave me the opportunity to explore various scientific disciplines by attending conferences and gaining hands-on research experience in the laboratory, but it also reinforced my decision to become a physician.”

Portrait of Mary Akuamoah-Boateng smiling.

Mary Akuamoah-Boateng

 “CSTEP exposed me to many environments, which helped me refine my goals. The staff was my new family. They provided me with opportunities that helped shaped my life professionally, educationally and socially. I am grateful for such endless support.”

Portrait of Christine King smiling.

Christine King

 “CSTEP is an influential program that allows minority students to grow and be exposed to so many opportunities with a variety of majors. CSTEP is willing to help you continue your education and is willing to help you grow in your future professional aspiration.”

Portrait of Jasmine Worthy smiling.

Jasmine Worthy

 “CSTEP helped me realize that success is a journey and not a destination. CSTEP catalyzed a passion and pride for my major by exposing me to professional conferences and smoothing out potholes on the path to becoming an engineer.”

Portrait of Morris Green smiling.

Morris Green

 “The CSTEP Program was a home away from home, providing the guidance, enrichment and resources to succeed and excel at the University at Buffalo. I was helped tremendously by the program and will always have fond memories.”

Portrait of Tangier Harper smiling.

Tangier Harper, JD

 “I truly appreciate the supportive environment, sound advice and resources provided by CSTEP. I very much attribute where I am today to assistance I received from the program and staff.”

Portrait of Dr. Folarin Erogbogbo smiling.

Dr. Folarin Erogbogbo

 “CSTEP is my family that understands the rigors of academic life while serving as a fountain of mental, emotional and physical support. The people, resources, and environment associated with CSTEP were a vital and positive molding force for academic advancement during my impressionable years. The CSTEP pipeline has allowed me to be a tutee then a tutor, a mentee then a mentor, a student then a teacher, an undergraduate researcher then an undergraduate research supervisor. My attainment of a BS and PhD in Chemical and Biological Engineering is a direct testament to the program’s effectiveness in contributing to the development of STEM majors.”

Portrait of Doaa Kanan.

Doaa Kanan

"Merging academic growth with personal development, CSTEP played a pivotal role in shaping my undergraduate journey at UB. Through its supportive community, mentorship, and opportunities to engage in research and leadership, I discovered my passion for bridging science and service. CSTEP’s guidance and encouragement prepared me to take the next step—pursuing my Master’s in Biomedical Sciences. I’m grateful for how the program helped me build confidence, purpose, and a lifelong network of support."