From GSAL to Graduate Study: Exploring Pathways to Public Policy and Social Work at UChicago 

Esther Pandian-Riske, MA, MAPSS is the Program Director of the Graduate Student-at-Large (GSAL) Program at the University of Chicago. Originally from Singapore, she brings a global perspective to her role, shaped by her own experience as an international student. She holds two master’s degrees from the University of Chicago: a Master of Arts from the Master of Arts Program in the Social Sciences and a Master of Public Policy from the Harris School of Public Policy Studies.

With over 20 years of academic advising and leadership experience, Esther has held key roles across prestigious institutions, including Assistant Dean of Students at the University of Illinois at Chicago Honors College, Dean of Multicultural Affairs at the Latin School of Chicago, and Assistant Dean of Students for the Graduate Division of the Social Sciences at the University of Chicago.

In her role at GSAL, Esther is dedicated to fostering an exceptional academic experience for her students. She specializes in guiding students as they explore research interests, map out courses, and connect with faculty and admissions directors to successfully transition into MA or PhD programs. She also facilitates a vibrant community through initiatives such as the weekly Thursday Graduate Students’ Happy Hour, which connects current students with alumni to promote networking, mentorship, and camaraderie. Esther welcomes the opportunity to connect with prospective students, current participants, and alumni, offering guidance and support at every stage of their academic and professional journeys.

Esther’s work is rooted in a genuine commitment to helping students succeed. Through her guidance and emphasis on building connections, she ensures that students make the most of their time in the GSAL program while feeling supported every step of the way.

Ron Martin has been a graduate admissions professional for the past 20+ years and joined the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice as Director of Admissions in November 2017. Prior to joining Crown Family School, Ron spent 20 years at Loyola University Chicago, first as a graduate student in History and last serving as Associate Director of Graduate Admissions.

Jessica is the Director of Recruitment and Outreach Management at the Harris School of Public Policy. She has over 15 years of experience in admissions and student services. She completed a BA in history at Ohio University and an M.Ed. in Higher Education at Loyola University Chicago.

Bianca Huerta began her UChicago journey through the Graduate Student-at-Large program before earning her A.M. in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration (Clinical Track) from the Crown Family School. As a bilingual (English/Spanish) clinical social worker, she has provided free bilingual therapy through Erie Neighborhood House’s Proyecto Cuídate, served as an Inpatient Adult Medical Social Worker at UChicago Medical Center, and co-led residential life as a Resident Head for nearly four years. She is now an Associate Clinical Social Worker in California, holds Trauma Informed Care certificates from UChicago, and serves as Board Secretary of Faithful Fools in San Francisco.

Marvin Fourte began his UChicago journey through the Graduate Student-at-Large program before earning a Master of Arts in Public Policy from the Harris School of Public Policy. He is now a J.D. candidate at Stanford Law School and has interned with the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office and the Cook County Public Defender’s Homicide Division. As a first-generation graduate student, Marvin got his start by working in workforce development on Chicago’s South Side and advocated for people experiencing homelessness with the Faithful Fools in San Francisco.