Meet Our Graduate Assistants

Aliyah Brown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a student in the Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology program. Brown completed her undergraduate studies at Penn State University in, earning a B.S. in Psychology. She further continued her studies at Temple University, earning her M.Ed. in Counseling Psychology. Brown is passionate about connecting with people and bridging the gap between social justice, advocacy, and relational development. A career in the services allows her to achieve this by exploring individual stories and making a meaningful impact on many others. In the future, Brown aspires to become a psychologist and follow wherever her passions may lead her.

Chelsea Chen of Connecticut, is a student in the Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology program. Chen earned her B.S. in Physiology and Neurobiology from the University of Connecticut in 2020. Her interest in the Counseling Psychology program stems from a passion for research and a commitment to boosting marginalized voices in the field. While Chen's career aspirations are still evolving, she remains interested in exploring both research and clinical positions.

Justine DeGaetano of Staten Island, New York, is a student in the M.A. in School Psychology program. DeGaetano earned her B.A. in Psychology from Binghamton University in 2021. Her aspiration to become a school psychologist was sparked by her long-term passion for the field of mental health. DeGaetano has always enjoyed working with children and is deeply interested in the process of assessing and evaluating students. This led her to the field of School Psychology, which she believes perfectly aligns with her aspirations. After graduation, DeGaetano aims to offer support and relief to individuals and families affected by special needs, dedicated to making a meaningful difference in their lives.

Annakay Gordon of New Jersey is a student in the Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership, Management and Policy program. Gordon earned her B.A. in Business Administration at Berkeley College in 2013. Gordon’s previous work experiences, which have been working in higher education in various roles, influenced her to pursue her Ph.D. in Higher Education. Post graduation, Gordon desires to be a dean or lecturer at a university and to ultimately pursue a leadership position in higher education. In her free time, Gordon enjoys listening to music, travel experiences, and spending time with her family.

Manisha Janjikhel of Bridgewater, New Jersey, is a student in the Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology Program. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from Panjab University in India and later completed her MBA at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. She then advanced her studies at Rutgers University, graduating with an M.A. in Applied Psychology in 2022. Janjikhel has a passion for mental health advocacy and is committed to supporting individuals with mental health needs. Upon graduation, Janjikhel plans to work in counseling centers with adults to help them navigate their mental health challenges.

Kelsey Kaelin of Montclair, New Jersey, is a student in the M.A. in Special Education program. Kaelin is a Seton Hall University alumna, where she earned a B.A. in Theatre with minors in Musical Theatre and Psychology in 2023. She has also recently obtained her teaching certification in elementary education. Kaelin is deeply proud of her connection to the University and is immensely grateful for the numerous opportunities the institution has provided. Driven by her passion for working with children and her commitment to fostering a positive and enriching learning environment, Kaelin has always aspired to a career in education. The inspiration and support from her teachers, professors, and counselors have profoundly influenced her, motivating her to bring the same enthusiasm and dedication to her own work. Kaelin’s career aspiration is to be an elementary school special education teacher.

Christina Korotki of Oceanside, New York, is a student in the Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology Program. During her undergraduate years, Korotki minored in sociology, criminology and graduated with a B.A. in General Psychology from Adelphi University in 2023. Korotki continued her education at Adelphi University for an additional year, earning her M.A. in 2024 along with an advanced certificate in Human Resource Management. Korotki's interest in psychology was deeply influenced by her nana’s diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Witnessing the complexities of the illness, the challenges of treatment, and the strain on caregivers sparked her desire to understand and address these issues more effectively. Although she is currently uncertain about which population she wants to serve after graduation, she is optimistic that her program will help her discover and define her future focus in the field.

Olivia Ohngemach of Wayne, New Jersey, is a student in the M.A./Ed.S. in Professional Counseling program. During her undergraduate years at The College of New Jersey, Ohngemach earned her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Marketing in 2024. Ohngemach has always envisioned a career in Counseling and Therapy. Her internship experience at Wayne Counseling & Family Services is what truly fueled her passion for helping others, solidifying her desire to pursue this path professionally. In the near future, she aspires to establish her own private practice or non-profit agency dedicated to providing mental health counseling in underserved communities.

Lisa Pescatore of Hillsdale, New Jersey, is a student in the M.A. in School Psychology program. Pescatore earned her B.A. in Psychology at Seton Hall University in 2021. Pescatore has developed a strong passion for working with children, particularly in supporting their emotional, behavioral, and academic well-being. Reflecting on her own childhood, she often wishes she had access to the resources of a school psychologist. Her desire to be that supportive figure for future generations is a deeply rewarding goal for her. Pescatore is committed to equipping the younger generation for success both academically and in the real world. As a future school psychologist, she is dedicated to fostering a safe and nurturing environment where students can thrive and realize their limitless potential with the right support.