We’re so excited to introduce you to another member of our Admission team, Michelle Dieguez! Michelle comes to us with experience in Admissions at SUNY Purchase College, where she discovered her love for higher education. Read on to learn more about Michelle’s favorite spots in Morningside Heights, food in NYC, and how to spend the perfect day in the city!
Where are you from?
I am from Yonkers, New York
What brought you to TC?
I’ve always had a passion for higher education administration! After getting my master’s from NYU, I worked as an Undergraduate Admissions Advisor at SUNY Purchase College, hoping to break into the marketing field. However, after working in Admissions for a couple of years, I felt very connected to helping students throughout the college application process, which inspired me to continue working in higher ed. I applied to Teaches College because I wanted to work in a community where I could help break down barriers and make the admission process more accessible for everyone.
What is your role in the Office of Admission? What projects do you work on?
I am one of the Assistant Directors of Admission. In my role, I work on various projects, such as reading applications, planning events for prospective and admitted students, and implementing DEI initiatives and strategies.
What are your favorite spots to hang out either at TC or in the Morningside Heights area?
I have two favorite spots in the Morningside Heights area. My first is the Church of Notre Dame. It’s one of the main centers for Catholic life in Morningside Heights. Before work, I try to attend mass on a weekly basis to connect with God along with other members of the church. My favorite lunch spot is Appletree! It’s such a staple for me and everyone in my office; it wouldn’t be a normal week if we didn’t visit Appletree at least once or twice. My go-to Appletree order is the Philly cheesesteak hero!
What is your favorite food in NYC?
I have two favorite spots in NYC: Carmines and Veselka. Carmines is one of my favorite Italian restaurants; if you visit you have to order the penne alla vodka and the chicken parmigiana (the eggplant parmigiana is a GREAT vegetarian alternative). If you’re looking for the BEST pierogi, Veselka does not disappoint!
If someone only had one day to spend in the city, what would you tell them they need to do?
Although it’s very touristy, I highly recommend visiting Times Square and booking tickets to a Broadway show. If you’ve never been to NYC, I highly recommend the mainstream shows such as Wicked, the Lion King, or the Book of Mormon. If you’re looking to invest your day in a museum, I recommend the Museum of Natural History; it’s personally one of my favorite museums in NYC. Even if you’re not a history buff, you can learn so much at the Museum of Natural History; there are so many different exhibits to explore!
What is your favorite activity to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I love to read books and play tennis. I’m an avid reader who loves to read young adult, romance, and fantasy books. When I’m not reading, I love outdoor activities like hiking or playing sports like tennis with my friends and family.