Cesar Firmat
Bronx, NY, native Cesar Firmat is one of a handful of students across SUNY designated as EOP Student Ambassadors.
Gratefulness as well as shock is how Mr. Firmat describes his reaction upon being named an Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) Student Ambassador, since only 16 students were chosen out of 24 SUNY schools that have EOP programs.
“I never imagined I would be in a position allowing me to give the same opportunity to students that EOP gave me,” Firmat reflected.
SUNY Fredonia EOP Director Rachel Skemer describes Firmat as a dedicated and hardworking student who takes advantage of resources made available to him to achieve academic success.
He is committed to his career goals and has actively built strong connections within the campus community in order to grow.” - Rachel Skemer
Academic challenges that the junior Computer Information Systems major, who has a minor in Spanish, faced in his education were overcome through the EOP. The program recognized his potential and provided the resources, support and summer program that led to success in college.
Today, Firmat is flourishing in the classroom, achieving a 3.7 GPA and a spot on the Dean’s List every semester.
“He is committed to his career goals and has actively built strong connections within the campus community in order to grow,” Ms. Skemer said.
EOP Student Ambassadors serve as mentors to fellow students and create a strong EOP support network of EOP students across SUNY. Outreach to prospective students, regardless of whether they are accepted, through tabling events at open houses or high school visits on campus are among Firmat’s student ambassador duties.
Firmat shares his journey, inspiring high school students to pursue higher education, and also gives EOP greater exposure to area students enrolled in BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services).
“As ambassadors, we are the voice of EOP students in having a communication link with the chancellor of SUNY,” added Firmat, who’s already met with Chancellor John B. King Jr. and other SUNY administrators. He’s working to organize a workshop so EOP students at SUNY Fredonia can advocate for EOP by telling their own story in a letter to send to their State Assembly representative.
Firmat credits Skemer for enrolling in the EOP program, which he has supported as a tutor and peer advisor for the EOP’s summer program in two consecutive years. He’s passionate about giving others the same opportunity he was offered and is committed to showing that academic success is possible with the right support and determination.
“Cesar is both compassionate and empathetic with his peers – relatable yet firm in holding them accountable when he notices habits that may hinder their academic progress,” Skemer said.
Firmat is committed to pursuing all the experiences and opportunities he can before graduation and aspires to work in a field related to information technology. “I strive to gain more experience, learn from industry experts and ultimately develop into a knowledgeable professional who can share insights and mentor others.”
SUNY Fredonia’s considerable distance from the Bronx was a factor in Firmat’s college review process. “It is a relief to be away from the city sometimes, and Fredonia is a long way from the city,” he said.
