Student Success Blog

Program Award Winner: Daphne Papageorge

Each year, faculty in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) come together to select an outstanding student in their program to receive the honor of being named as their program award winner. Students selected for this award embody the very best of their program: they excel in their studies; they demonstrate leadership in classes and internships; and they have a genuine and tenacious passion for their discipline.

This year, faculty in Special Education have selected Daphne Papageorge as their Outstanding Student in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis). Congratulations, Daphne!

Papgeorge

Q & A with Outstanding Student in Special Education (Applied Behavior Analysis), Daphne Papageorge:

What academic accomplishment are most proud of? 

It has been a goal of mine to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) for a very long time. Completing the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) certificate program at GMU was the first step in moving towards that goal. I am very proud of that accomplishment. 

What organizations/affiliations have you been involved with while at Mason?  

Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)

What are your plans after graduation?  

I completed my ABA supervision practicum in December of 2019 and am now studying to prepare for the BCBA exam. I plan to take the exam in July. When I become a BCBA I hope to utilize my education and experience to continue working with students with Autism. 

What is your favorite memory in CEHD or your favorite part of being a CEHD student?  

I enjoyed learning with people I work with and collaborating with them on projects and assignments. It made the learning deeper and allowed for the carryover of skills into the workplace. 

What advice do you have for fellow CEHD students (especially those that are not graduating yet)?  

ABA is such an interesting science. Take the time to learn the basics of ABA and don’t be afraid to ask questions to your professors. 

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself?  

I am so happy that I completed the ABA Certificate Program at GMU. Becoming a BCBA will be one of my greatest achievements. I feel honored to be chosen as a program award winner. It was totally unexpected!