Gianncarlo Pena (Former UMLP Male Leader of the Year 2023)

The Urban Male Leadership Program (UMLP) has been integral to Gianncarlo College's academic success. He first joined the UMLP as a junior at Lehman College, and he was immediately immersed in a program that not only uplifted him with other bright students but also allowed him to lift others. Almost hidden from the average Lehman student's eye, this program provided him and countless others with a home full of enriching and meaningful advice from staff to mentors. As he began to see the numerous resources this program offered, he eventually took on the recruitment coordinator role to help more Lehman College students find a support system. In seeking out new students to join the program and assisting each one individually, he developed a passion for student support. He decided to integrate it with his biological passion for medicine. With one more semester before graduation, he reflects on all the stressful and challenging moments he faced as a student. Once he found the UMLP, he was surrounded by others who were going through similar struggles. Having so many peers and staff members to uplift him during exams, applications, and assignments brought familiarity and peace of mind. When it came time to apply for scholarships and internships, the UMLP ensured he was prepared, assisted him with applications and essays, and even provided him with a recommendation letter for the LifeSci New-York City summer internship in which he was selected. After graduation, he plans to pursue a master's degree and move on from his role as a recruitment coordinator. However, he will always advocate for the work the UMLP has done for him and countless other students. He hopes and believes that the UMLP will continue to thrive and evolve, seeking new, innovative ways to support students. He expresses his gratitude for the guidance and transformation he has experienced, and he is confident that the UMLP will continue to provide a home for any new students who will join.