Maria Chak, '18

Maria Chak

WNYCOSH Worker Center

  • Executed a research plan to support Gov. Cuomo’s nail salon campaign in New York.
  • Established a regional outline of nail salons in Erie County for canvassing purposes and visited a number to gather qualitative data.
  • Compiled a statistical report on wages, safety and health precautions in nail salons. Utilized art and creative representations of the information to enhance messaging and outreach.
"While interning in Buffalo this summer, I discovered my interest in direct advocacy for immigrants and refugees. I was engaged with my project to advocate for nail salon workers for better wages and safer working conditions. This led to an expansion of my knowledge in the impact community engaged service learning has and the difference it can make."