Bianca Palala

As Manager, College Guidance and Transition, Bianca counsels OppNet Fellows through the college application and matriculation processes. Prior to joining OppNet, Bianca worked as a Program Director for a NYC Department of Youth and Community Development Middle School After-School Program. Bianca was responsible for the management of daily operations and ensuring that students were exposed to high-quality activities that incorporated academics, recreation, and cultural enrichment to support their overall development. She also worked as an Academic College Readiness Coach for the GEAR UP federal grant program, aimed at preparing students for success in college. As a GEAR UP coach, Bianca facilitated guidance lessons to large groups, as well as provided one-on one student support on college readiness, career exploration, and life skills. Bianca received her B.A. in Sociology with a concentration in Human Services from SUNY New Paltz and her M.S.Ed in School Counseling from Fordham University Lincoln Center.