Spencer Hayes

Graduate Assistant, Programming (She/Her/Hers)

In my role as the Programming Graduate Assistant, I support the coordination of the Center’s career-readiness programs, including the development, planning, implementation, and hosting of annual and special events. I am also a member of the Center’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, DE&I, which focuses on the designing, planning, and executing of focused career events related to the Center’s Affinity Communities. As a former UConn Huskies student-athlete, I enjoy working with the new generation of student-athletes and incorporating UConn Athletics alumni into our Office’s programming and events. 

I am currently a doctoral student in the Department of Political Science, where I concentrate my studies on international relations and comparative politics. I love having the opportunity to integrate my joy for research and analytics into my role at the Career Center and applying my human rights background to DE&I Committee efforts.

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Bio

Hometown: Saratoga Springs, NY

Things I enjoy: When I am not in the classroom or working, I enjoy working out, traveling, visiting family, and taking my rescue puppy, Tilly, for walks.

Advice to students: Always be open to trying experiences, activities, and classes outside your major and/or field of study! It is a great way to develop new skills and discover new interests.

Education

Current Program:

University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

Expected Graduation May 2026

Doctor of Philosophy, Political Science

Favorite Project: Quantitative research paper on the relationship between human trafficking cases and online censorship. 

Rockefeller College of Public Policy & Affairs, University at Albany, Albany, NY

May 2021 

Master of International Affairs

Favorite Project: Researching and developing a final report for the Immigrant Advocate Response Collaborative on immigration attorney burnout that was presented at the New York State Legislative Session in January 2022. 

University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT

May 2019 

Bachelor of Arts, Political Science and Philosophy 

Favorite Experience: Participating in The Everywoman Everywhere Legal Protection of Women and Girls internship, researching materials and data utilized by the Every Woman Treaty. 

Previous Roles

• Contributing Writer – Mohr Media
• Graduate Assistant – State University of New York, Applied Learning 
• Policy and Communications Intern – Utah Afterschool Network 
• Intern – New York State Division of Human Rights 
• Youth Mentor – United States Committee for Refugees and Immigrants