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Hola Todos!/Hi Everyone!
My name is Estrella Dorado, which in English translates to Golden Star! The song I posted is one of my favorite songs that is about life's memories—”the hardest moments, the sweetest moments.”
I'm 100% Mexican, I was brought to the U.S at the age of 2 and have never been able to go back. I have 4 furry babies. Luna, Stella, Opie and Tiggy. I grew up in Long Island City, Queens, but recently moved to Maspeth. When I have the opportunity to visit other states, I take them. (Sometimes we just need breaks from the real world) My pronouns are she/her.
I look forward to connected with everyone this semester and for the next 2 years at the Silberman School of Social Work.
~ To a great semester ~

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Natalia Lafourcade - Hasta la Raíz (Audio)

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Hello, I am Wanda and I go by she/her. I was born on the Island of Puerto Rico and come from a multicultural background (Taino, African, Spanish). I came to New York City at the age of 8 years old. I speak and write Spanish fluently. I have lived outside New York City for years in New York suburbs, Los Angeles, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Florida. I enjoy interacting with different people from different backgrounds and have learned greatly from those that I have come across. I returned to NYC to look after my mom who has Alzheimer's and that is when I decided to create a bucket list in which my first thing was to go back to college and finish something that I never completed. I walk into a college in the Bronx at the age of 61 being the oldest student to graduate with excellent grades. I am still here learning about myself and setting an example that there is no age to learn and accomplish your dreams. Bringing education into our neighborhoods for change and social mobility.
As Henry Ford  said:
"Anyone who stops learning is old, at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young."

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Hey everyone my name is Leshaunna, my pronouns are she/her. I was born in Guyana and came up here young with my family. I love all kind of music but, my favorite is Soca being Caribbean it's just something that you were raised on. I live around crown heights and wouldn't want to go anywhere else. I enjoy playing softball, dancing, and anything fun like axe throwing. I am very excited for the semester and really look forward to having fun and making friends!
I chose this song because the name simply and the meaning behind it. It's just about being in your happy place and living peaceful.

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Lyrikal - Happy Place (The Backyard Jam) | 2021 Soca

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Hi everyone, my name Mikayla Wallace. I go by the pronouns she and her. The song that I'm sharing is called Come Back and it reminds me of how it feels to fall in love with someone. The song is also a little old so it makes me feel a bit nostalgic. My family is from Belize, so this song also reminds me of the connection West Indian people have with each other.

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My name is Charmine and my pronouns are She/Her. I'm 33 but I consider myself to be an oldie. Based on the music I listen to, I really do have an old soul lol. I listen to Al Green, Chicago, Barry Manilow, and Stevie Wonder on a daily basis and their music makes me happy.

I am a proud Filipina raised in Queens NY. I'm an ultimate Foodie and someone who loves to travel and chase sunsets. My curiosity and love for people have led me to my passion for learning more about different cultures. I just love studying their history, adversities, and the resilience that makes their country even more beautiful and special.

Speaking of my love for diversity, my family is also very mixed. I married my best friend 10 years ago and we have 2 beautiful Fili/Ricans running around and filling the whole house with their beautiful chaos and laughter. They are my everything.

I chose to share Let It Be by The Beatles because this was one of the songs that got me through some of my hardest days. It's not your typical upbeat happy song but it's a song that's easy to listen to and gets you to sit back and reflect. I was a caregiver to my mother who passed away from cancer and this was also her favorite chemo song. This song reminds me that whatever situation I'm in, good or bad, approach it gracefully and be intentional; everything is possible with a good mindset. Listening to this song makes a hard day feel less dreadful and kinda reel you back into feeling good and manifesting good energy. If my energy drink were to be a song, for me this is it.

Getting into Silberman was the greatest achievement that I am really proud of. After my mom's passing in September 2021, I turned to school to grieve productively. I knew I had a gift but I did not know what profession has a concoction of all the strengths I have. It was not until I found myself in a room of Social Workers that I realized that this was the career for me. I felt safe and seen, inspired, and the conversations felt like a first language to me.

I am extremely excited about being in this class to learn from Dr. AOW and from all of you. I know all your contributions will help me grow as a Social Worker.

With love and positivity, Charmine.

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Hello! My name is Maria but most people call me Marie. I go by she/her but I feel comfortable with all pronouns. I am from Long Island and this is my first time being in the city. I am very excited to be in the Hunter social work program since it is always said to be the best social work program in the state. I speak English and Spanish. I am learning Japanese, I know a few words in Korean and I do know ASL though I am rusty. I love singing, baking, cats, and dogs! I love this song because it's by one of my favorite kpop groups but also because it feels personal to me and the way they sing is so passionate and I love that. :)

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TXT (투모로우바이투게더) '0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You) feat. Seori' Official MV

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Hi Everybody!

Jazz en la casa ( in the house). I use she/him/they/them pronouns. This is a photo of Flamenco Beach on the island of Culebra in Puerto Rico. This photo uplifts me because I love the beach and this specific beach is known as one of the most beautiful in the whole world. I love the culture of the island and I wish to one day live in Puerto Rico and build a community there. #Paquelosepa =Just so you know or if you don't know now you know lol. I look forward to the semester with all of you!

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My name is Jarlyne, my pronouns are she/her and I am 22 years old. I am from the Bronx born and raised. This is my second year at Hunter. I was a student at BMCC, I graduated and decided to continue with my Bachelor's in social work. I love music, is one way to relax me. I learned how to do nails on my own during the pandemic so that was pretty cool lol. I enjoy traveling and being at the beach.
The song that I decided to share for this post is "Circles" by Post Malone. I chose this song because walking away from something or someone is always hard and never easy but eventually, we have to let go, and to me, this song expresses that. We can’t always make things work, and when the time comes it’s okay to let some things become memories as we continue our lives, there will always be something better.
I am so excited but yet nervous about this new journey of mine. I am looking forward to learning and growing within the field, and I wish all of us a great semester!

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My name is Mia, pronounced like my-uh, and I go by she/her pronouns.

Music has always been an important aspect of my life, but Alicia Keys' discography has always especially resonated with me. I chose this specific song because everything about it emulates what I hope to as a classmate, colleague and social worker. The melody, lyrics, tune, and overall delivery of the song embody a feeling of heartwarming, the deep and soulful rhythm alone being enough to stir up emotions. The message of her song is wanting her lover to utilize her as a diary, essentially letting him know she's a safe space for him. She also expresses a deep feeling of unconditional love and commitment to him, and the concept of not only him confiding in her but being each other's confidante. I want to extend that same sentiment to all of you and everyone I encounter as a social worker.

A little more about me-- I'm the eldest of four children and a dog, I'm also a native New Yorker, born, raised and still living in Queens. Ethnicity wise I'm Puerto Rican, and yes I know how to speak Spanish lol. I'm currently considered a lower Junior at Hunter, and with that being said I hope to cultivate a lasting relationship with each of you as we learn to navigate this new space.

All the love, Mia <3.

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Hi! My name is Isabella, but literally no one calls me that. Most people call me Bella! (: My pronouns are she/her. I am posting the song Kilby Girl by the Backseat Lovers. It is my go to feel good song and just makes me happy.

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Hi everyone. My name is Nick, he/him and I'm delighted to be part of this class. I was born in Queens NY to Russian immigrant parents. I live in Manhattan with my partner and our cat Millie. I'm a father to a teenage boy and my sister and I both care for our aging mother who is incredibly independent. I've had some struggles in life like most of us but I've been given the grace to overcome them. I picked this song because I like its honesty and it reminds me to show up and step up, do the job that I've been chosen for in spite of the noise coming from the outside and the inside. It also rocks!

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Bob Seger - Turn The Page (1973 Radio Version)

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Hi everyone! My name is Deborah some people call me Deb/Debbie. My pronouns are she/her. I am a proud Puerto Rican. I love my kids/family, food, music and my culture. I am super excited to begin my journey to becoming a Social Worker. I can't wait to begin learning and growing within the SW field as a student and personally as an individual. Wishing all of us a successful semester!

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Hi everyone! I'm Elliotte, and my pronouns are she/her.

The song I'm posting is I 2 I by Tevin Campbell.  I love the song's message which is about vulnerability and letting love lead your way. I also love Tevin Campbell and Rosie Gaines's singing!
"If we listen to each other's heart,
We'll find we're never too far apart"

This is my first year at Hunter, I am a transfer student from BMCC.  I'm looking forward to learning with and from all of you this semester!

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Tevin Campbell (Powerline)- I 2 I (A Goofy Movie Soundtrack)

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Hello! My name is Katie, but I go by “K.” My pronouns are they/she. I am from Long Island and I currently reside at Hunter’s dorms. My big mushy dog, Sunny D, lives on Long Island with my family (I make sure to get lots of photos).

The song I decided to share for this post is “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” by Elton John. This song is one of many songs I like to think of as a personal “key song.” I consider a “key song” to be a song that leads me to a meaningful discovery. This song helped me to open myself up to self-advocating for my own path and needs during my early teenage years. As a young chronically ill person, this song made me feel affirmed in advocating for my right to an accessible education. This song helped me to solidify my choice to shut down comments that saw my future as limited or lacking opportunity. After going through a time where the future was not promised, this song was a call to cherish and nurture the future I had fought for.

Music is deeply important to how I express myself and connect with others. The impact music has on the body and mind I find to be beautifully transformative. I am a singer and spent many years performing in musicals, vocal jazz festivals, various genre choirs, and more. I cherish songwriting independently and with others regardless of context. I play the guitar and ukulele, I used to play the violin, and I play the drums quite badly. While I am a lover of a large variety of genres, I especially adore jazz. Here are some artists I love: Stevie Wonder, Phoebe Bridgers, Nina Simone, R.E.M, Jeff Buckley, Chet Baker, Fiona Apple, Ella Fitzgerald, Richie Havens, Janis Ian, David Bowie, and more.

I am beyond excited to be starting the new semester and BSW program. I look forward to meeting all of you and continuing to nurture my friendships with those of you who I already know.

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Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (Remastered 2014)

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My name is Laila Salem, my pronouns are she/her and I am 18 years old. I am a muslim woman, the eldest daughter in the household and am Yemeni and Puerto Rican. I live in south Brooklyn, so I often commute by a two hour train ride which is so so much fun…lol. Anyways, I chose this song because it represents letting someone go with love for them still in your heart and I feel like I’m at a chapter in my life where everything is changing and with change comes growth. I wish you roses symbolizes to me the energy that I possess as I come into this new chapter in my life and except that the old one is coming to the end and with that results in creating new boundaries and letting go of some friendships in my life that I have simply outgrown. I’m confident in this new journey of my life, and I am excited to share it with you all.

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Kali Uchis - I Wish you Roses (Official Lyric Video)

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Hello everyone! My name is Mark, my pronouns are he/him. I'm really excited to start the new semester after spending most of the summer hiding under a blanket in my apartment. I moved to Queens this past January and I've had a pretty great time here so far. I'm a bit of a nerd, my boyfriend and our friends love playing Dungeons and Dragons when we can. I love being the center of attention, its a passion of mine. And I love tea, the entirety of the topic in all its broadness. I usually move between three households; my apartment where I live under my grandma and great-uncle, out on Long Island with my mom, younger sister, aunt, and my other grandmother, and I frequently visit my boyfriend's home in Pennsylvania where he lives with his stepdad, brother, and mother. I do like driving which makes the endeavor of driving around so much more tolerable. Well, I feel like I've talked about myself enough for now, I'm sure I'll do it a lot more throughout the semester. I'm choosing to share the song American Teenager by Ethel Cain. Everytime I listen to this song I always daydream about changing my identity and running away and starting an entirely new life just for funsies.

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Ethel Cain - American Teenager (Official Video)

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My name is Shay, I go by they/them pronouns or you can call me by my name. I am a native New Yorker and come from a Latino background. I am 23 years old and live with my family including our dog Rosie. I enjoy meaningful relationships, being in safe spaces, and being able to share ideas. I can not wait to make long-lasting companions and see everyone grow as social workers and individuals.
This song always puts me in an upbeat mood and makes me feel like I can tackle anything. I will let his music guide me through my time at Hunter.

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Hey everyone! my name is Uyiwonmwan but I'm mainly addressed by Alexandra(my middle name) I’m okay with whichever one. I’m Nigerian and lived there till I was 11. The culture is embedded in me from the food, language to the music, which I take pride in. I enjoy learning about new cultures and songs, I find it refreshing to listen to new sounds.

Although this may sound funny I genuinely enjoy listening to Christmas songs. Something about it puts me in a relaxed and calming mood. Other than Christmas songs I love Afrobeats/reggae.
Looking forward to having a great semester with you all.

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Christmas is coming ~ christmas playlist medley 🎄🎅🏼

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Hello everyone! My name is Rocio, and my pronouns are She/her. This is my first year here at Hunter, I am a transfer student from Westchester Community College. Some things about me are, I enjoy crocheting, exploring the city, and going to concerts.

The song I chose is called Lights Up by Harry Styles. This is one of my favorite songs since its a song that makes you question who you are and who you want to become, without fear. Even if there are obstacles in your way.

I can't wait to learn new things this semester and put them to use at my internship placement. I am so excited to meet everyone!

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My name is Elena (she/her). I love music in general, but After the Storm by Kali Uchis is one of my favorite songs. The song's main message is that although everyone goes through hardships, better times will always come. Tyler the Creator is also featured and I love his music. Kali Uchis as an artist does a great job of combining English, Spanish and Spanglish throughout her music. Having both Dominican and Puerto Rican roots and being from The Bronx, Kali's music resonates with me because she speaks to the duality of my cultural identity. Aside from music, two of my favorite shows are The Get Down and Avatar the Last Airbender. I am also very family oriented and love spending quality time with my friends. I wish everyone luck with the upcoming semester and I am excited to meet everyone!

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Kali Uchis - After The Storm ft. Tyler, The Creator, Bootsy Collins

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Hello I Am Karen,

My pronoun is “she, her”. I am a world citizen living as Jamaican American who loves traveling deeply into music, ‘good music’. The songs that I like that gives me inspiration, is not one but Quite a few on my playlist, and that is from dancehall and reggae, hip hop and RNB music. I love people and culture so it is infused also with food fashion dance and lingua. I am excited to start this BSW program and looking forward humbly into learning and sharing with everyone. I wish a great experience and all the best for us all. Thank you

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Hi my name is Bess. My pronouns are she/her. I am looking forward to this class, and to meeting everyone. I live in Brooklyn, NY. I don’t have any pets, but my kids and I are interested in getting a puppy one day! I enjoy music and reading. I posted a picture of the beach, because I really enjoy going there. Best of luck to everyone this upcoming semester!

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I love this song! It always gives me goosebumps.
My pronouns are she/her. I was born and raised in Brazil and moved to the US in 2017. The things that I love about my country are the food, the beaches, and the fun I always have with my family and friends there.
I live with my wife and our 3 cats (Niko, Bruce and Nina), they are the cutest things!
My native language is Portuguese (some people think we speak Spanish in Brazil).
I love traveling, languages and coffee!

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The Greatest Showman | This Is Me (Official Lyric Video)

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Hello everyone! I go by she/her. The song I'm posting is Mi Gente because I love the meaning, the rhythm, and energy of the music. My cultural background is African American so I often pull from music from the Black diaspora. However, I also love music that is from so many cultural backgrounds, which is why I posted this song. Looking forward to connecting with all of you this semester.

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J Balvin, Willy William - Mi Gente (Official Video)

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Hey SW Community,
I tried to think of one song that really captures how I'm feeling right now and this song came to my mind. As summer starts to fade, what I'll take with me into the fall is the feeling of being out in the sun, dancing outside in park concerts. I love this song because it captures the joy, celebration, and hope a moment can bring. It reminds me that in a heartbeat, any moment can flip and be totally joyous, just because we're here. As a Black, queer, mom, born and raised in the Bronx, NYC -- that ability to tap into hope no matter what feels very present, culturally and historically in songs. I'm looking forward to getting to know each of you this semester and sharing this educational/life journey together!

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Shaun Escoffery - Days Like This ( Spinna & Ticklah Club Mix )

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Hi Social Work Community, the pronouns I use are she/her. I'm a Black, queer, mom, sister, auntie, daughter, poet, organizer, healer, and long time social worker (over 20 years). I was born and raised in the Bronx, the birthplace of hip hop. I say this because it's the 50th anniversary of hip hop-- so to honor my roots, I'm adding a song by Slick Rick the Ruler. He was one of the first rappers I ever heard, when growing up in the Bronx. I love my roots and they strengthen me when times get hard and also light me up. Looking forward to getting to know each of you. I'm excited to co-create a space of learning together that is transformative for all of us.

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Slick Rick - Children's Story (Official Music Video)