GRADUATE STUDENT COUNCIL
The Graduate Student Council (GSC) interdisciplinary organization of graduate students in the Liberal Arts and Sciences, working with the Graduate Studies Office, with a common interest to improve and enhance the quality of the graduate students’ experience at Villanova. Our goal is to create opportunities for students to participate in social, academic and community activities.
We regard representing our departments in the University as a continuing and progressive movement. We believe that the change, productivity and community atmosphere we generate will be passed on to the next group of graduate student members.
REPRESENTATIVES
Nic Schoppe - President
President: Nic Schoppe
(He/Him)
Nic Schoppe is currently pursing his masters in Higher Education Leadership. Nic attended Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia for undergrad where he studied Sports Marketing and Justice and Ethics in the Law and graduated in May of 2022. Nic was involved in many aspects of student life and athletics as an undergraduate student which peaked his interests and made him want to pursue a career in a college athletics department after the completion of his masters. At Villanova, Nic is also a Graduate Resident Director for Stanford Hall and has a dual assistantship at Ursinus College in the Center for Advocacy, Responsibility, and Engagement.
Valentina Wey - VP of Communication
VP of Communication: Valentina Wey
Valentina Wey is a graduate student getting her Master’s of Public Administration. She is originally from Mexico City but grew up in South Texas. She did her undergrad at Villanova where she majored in Cultural Studies and minored in Arabic and Latin American Studies. Valentina plans on getting a certificate in non-profit management and working for a humanitarian nonprofit focused on immigration and refugee services. Additionally, Valentina serves as a Staff Supervisor for Residence Life where she oversees the Resident Assistants of St. Mary’s hall. She is excited for this new role of Vice President of Communications in the GSC!
Caitlyn Graulau - VP of Social Activities
VP of Social Activities: Caitlyn Graulau
Caitlyn Graulau is a first-year graduate student in the Department of History, aiming to earn an M.A. in History and a Graduate Certificate in American History. Caitlyn graduated from Shenandoah University in 2022 with a B.S. in History and a B.S. in Esports (with a minor in Entrepreneurship and a Certificate in Civil War Studies). Always looking to be involved with student life, Caitlyn participated in multiple university clubs and organizations, including Shenandoah's Student Government Association. As the Director of Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity for the SGA, Caitlyn aspired to include all student perspectives in SGA discussions, decisions, and activities. In their graduate career, Caitlyn aims to do the same thing-- use history as a tool to educate the public on the diversity in experiences throughout American history."
Mei-Ling Malecki - VP of Social Activities
VP of Social Activities: Mei-Ling Malecki
Mei-Ling Malecki is a first-year graduate student pursuing her Master of Science in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health concentration. Mei-Ling graduated from Tulane University in May of 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Health & Wellness. Before beginning graduate studies, Mei-Ling worked in case management at a community-based nonprofit and earned her Certified Personal Trainer certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. After graduation, Mei-Ling hopes to combine her mental and physical health interests by leveraging physical exercise to engage populations typically hesitant to utilize counseling services. At Villanova, Mei-Ling serves as the Graduate Resident Director for Sullivan Hall and looks forward to contributing to the experiences of the Villanovan undergraduate and graduate communities.
Nika Kirillova - VP of Finance
VP of Finance: Nika Kirillova
Nika Kirillova is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Public Administration with a concentration in Nonprofit Management. Hailing from Budapest, Hungary, Nika holds a bachelor’s degree in Applied Economics from Corvinus University of Budapest.
Following her undergraduate studies, Nika spent three years working in finance industry. This practical experience equipped her with a solid foundation in finance and analytical prowess. Nika is eager to delve into the dynamic academic environment and contribute to the university community. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis, hiking, and playing board games with her friends.
Kady Tran - VP of Philanthropy
VP of Philanthropy: Kady Tran
Kady Tran graduated from Villanova in May of 2022. She studied Psychology with a concentration in Cognitive Science and minor in Global Health. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Chemistry and plans on pursuing a career in healthcare. During her time here at Villanova, she has been very involved in many aspects of student life, research, and outreach programs.
Drew Doughan - VP of Academic Affairs
VP of Academic Affairs: Drew Doughan
Drew Doughan is pursuing an MA in Higher Education Leadership at Villanova. Drew grew up in the Villanova area before attending Vanderbilt University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy and French. Having enjoyed serving in various student leadership roles in college, Drew became interested in a career in academic administration, prompting his interest in Graduate Student Council. In particular, Drew hopes to connect his love of languages and international education to his career in Higher Ed, with the intention of pursuing doctoral studies after graduation. Drew currently serves as a Graduate Assistant in the Office of Education Abroad.