The Graduate Student Association

GSA has a responsibility to represent every graduate student in every graduate program.  I don’t take that responsibility lightly. I hope to strengthen the reputation of learning and engagement this school has.  I also want to ensure a graduate student voice in CofC policy decisions.  We are a collective group of students that encompasses every age, background, aspiration, lifestyle, and more…and I plan to use that diversity as a strength.  By working with the rest of the GSA officers, school officials, faculty, and staff, I want to help make all of our graduate school experiences the best that they can be.  I’m ready to have fun and do work.  Thank you for your consideration and vote!

Mel Campos grew up in the suburbs of Charleston thanks to the US Navy and is currently a student in the dual Masters program in Environmental Studies and Public Administration at the College of Charleston. She earned her BS degree in Biochemistry, with a concentration in Physical Science, from Queens University of Charlotte. Prior to graduate school, Mel worked in biomedical research specializing in transgenic genotyping, animal husbandry, and aseptic tissue and cell culture.  Her research interests include sustainable transportation, suburban and urban air quality, and alternative fuel and energy usage. Mel currently serves as the treasurer in the Master of Environmental Studies Student Association (MESSA). Mel is also a classically trained musician and performs with the College of Charleston Flute Ensemble and the Charleston Community Band. In her free time, she enjoys reading, baking, and traveling.

Robin Garcia

I’m Robin Garcia, and I would love the opportunity to serve as secretary of the Graduate Student Association. I am originally from DC and have a degree in marine science/biology from the University of Miami. I am currently finishing my second year in the Graduate Program in Marine Biology. I became very active in GSA this past year with encouragement from friends and was able to meet some wonderful people and become involved in school-wide issues and events. GSA is the voice of graduate students in the College of Charleston community, a great resource for grad students, and has become an important aspect of my grad school career. I am ready to give back to GSA and everyone involved.

At Miami, I was involved with the marine science honor society and helped run Ocean Kids, an event that brought low-income students to the campus for a day of marine science education. In addition to GSA, I am also a member of the Marine Biology Graduate Student Association and a SafeZone facilitator, assisting with ally trainings. These roles have required good communication skills, which I will bring to the position. In addition to continuing correspondence between GSA and students, I would like to increase announcements of activities on campus and in the city that are of interest to grad students. I will also work with the rest of the e-board to improve on the amazing things that have been accomplished this year, including the funding of student projects and finding health insurance options. Hopefully I will see you all in the fall as your secretary! And if you haven’t yet, please come to GSA meetings; they’re so much fun!