Her professional interests include second language acquisition theory and practice, effective practices in language instruction and bilingual teacher preparation. At York College in the City University of New York, Dr. Gerena teaches classes such as 'Bilingual and English Language Learner Education', 'Early Language and Literacy for English Only & English Language Learners', and 'Content Literacy for Grades 2-6 for English Only & English Language Learners'. As a researcher she is involved in several projects to improve education for English Language Learners and improving literacy practices. As a recipient of a 2011-2012 Fulbright Scholar Award, she is conducting research on bilingual education and teacher/language auxiliary preparation at the UAM during the spring 2012 semester.