Name: Melannie Munera-Goez
Hometown: Cumberland, RI
Program: Urban Education Policy 
Education: Bachelor of Health Sciences in Human Development and Family Sciences, Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, University of Rhode Island 
 

What drew you to the UEP program at Brown? 

What drew me to the UEP program was the opportunity to impact RI education throughout my time at Brown. I was also drawn to the cohort model, because of its collaborative learning environment, and the community it creates with peers. 
 

How did your undergraduate education and any previous work experience lead or motivate you to pursue a master's in urban education policy?

Since a young age my interests have always been in education, family and community engagement within urban communities. During undergrad, I focused my interests in human development and early childhood education. This quickly transitioned into working in operations for a local Rhode Island charter school. Throughout each step in my path, the focus on equitable education for all has been my personal mission that has motivated me to pursue a master’s in urban education policy.
 

What do you hope to accomplish through the UEP program?

Through the UEP program I hope to become a successful policy creator and implementer. I also am hopeful to come out with skills that will help me become a better leader for my community, a skillful data analyzer, and someone who is able to feel discomfort in the unknown. 
 

Where is your internship placement and what are you working on?

I am currently interning for the Central Falls School District, with my role being in Data and Policy for the district. Throughout this school year, I have been able to dive deep into data for the district as well as edit and submit policy that is being evaluated by the school board. 
 

What has been a highlight of the program?

The highlight of the program has been the people! I have met the most brilliant people who I have been able to have some great relationships with folks that I know will last a lifetime. I value each and everyone of their thoughts because it allows me to become a well rounded individual. 
 

What are you hoping to do after graduation?

After graduating from UEP, I will be staying locally in Rhode Island. I hope to give back to the communities that have built me and also create an impact on local education. I hope to one day move out of state and continue learning and growing within the policy world and beyond.