"Advocating for Access: My Trip to the Capitol in Albany" - by Sasha Ferdinand

 People smiling

This past February, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Albany, New York, and meet face-to-face with state legislators and representatives. As a student in the NOAH (New Opportunities at Hofstra) Program—a scholarship initiative designed to support students from low-income and historically disadvantaged backgrounds—I went to advocate for something deeply personal: increased financial aid for students attending private institutions and continued support for equity-centered programs like NOAH.

Walking through the grand marble halls of the Capitol was both empowering and eye-opening. Alongside fellow NOAH scholars, I shared stories about how financial aid had transformed our educational journeys. I explained how NOAH offers more than tuition support—it offers mentorship, academic guidance, and a sense of community that reminds students we’re never alone in this process.

Each meeting brought a different energy. When speaking with younger legislators or those who had previously worked in education or community advocacy, there was often a palpable sense of empathy. One assemblymember, a former public school teacher, nodded along as I described balancing classes, work-study, and family responsibilities. She smiled knowingly and said, “We fought hard for students like you back in my classroom. Now I fight for you here.”

People talking

In contrast, I noticed that older legislators—especially those who entered politics from finance, law, or business—tended to focus on return-on-investment language. Our conversations leaned more toward graduation rates, workforce outcomes, and budget accountability. While they listened respectfully, the dialogue felt more transactional. I remember one representative asking, “So what would you say to taxpayers who don’t see a direct benefit from these programs?” It was a challenging question, but it gave me the chance to emphasize how educated, stable students become contributors to a stronger society.

The diversity of perspectives even within the same party was striking. Some progressive legislators challenged us to think bigger, pushing for universal college access. Others, even within traditionally liberal districts, seemed hesitant to commit to more funding without extensive data. It reminded me that party affiliation doesn't always determine priorities—lived experience does.
People smiling

One of the most powerful parts of the trip was witnessing my peers advocate with such clarity and courage. My peer, a senior Mass Media major (with a concentration in Law & Policy), spoke passionately about how NOAH gave her a path to find and pursue passion. She can later use her purpose to advocate for others. Another student, who dreams of becoming an educator, recounted how mentorship through the program helped them navigate life at a university and find their voice on campus.

These moments reminded me that advocacy is not just about policy—it’s about people.This trip reaffirmed why representation in political spaces matters. We can't wait for others to speak for us. We must be the ones in the room—sharing our truths, asking the hard questions, and reminding decision-makers that equity isn’t optional.

I left Albany hopeful and more determined than ever. Policy change may be slow, but every story shared, every connection made, brings us closer to a future where opportunity isn’t a privilege—it’s a promise.

Sasha Ferdinand is a Student Fellow at the Center for “Race,” Culture and Social Justice, along with holding other leadership roles on campus. She has an interest in healthcare and its intersection with race and social justice issues. This is her third year as a NOAH Scholar pursuing a degree in Health Sciences.


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