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About Hofstra

In Focus: Alyssa Jennaco

Alyssa will receive her BS in Community Health in August 2012 after completing her internship this summer.

Why do you feel higher education is important?

I have a three year old daughter, Ava Rose, and I want to be the best I can be to support my daughter. As a single parent, I needed to find a school that I could attend and still work and take care of my daughter.  Initially I went to St. John’s for a semester but then transferred to Nassau Community College because the course schedules were able to be adjusted around my work and parenting responsibilities.

How did you decide to transfer to Hofstra University?

I wanted to stay close to home so I could benefit from my family’s support. I am a single parent and currently live with my mother who provides childcare assistance. I am very thankful for my mother’s help because it makes it possible for me to attend college.  I needed to find a good school that was local that would have a program I could transfer my Nassau credits into without trouble. When I found Hofstra’s Community Health Program, I was excited and wanted to investigate. I found that it was a “perfect fit” and virtually all my credits transferred to Hofstra easily.

I began the Community Health Program in fall 2010 and haven’t looked back. I love the program and the professors. I find that my courses touch on issues that relate to my personal story and really fit with my career goals. From the beginning, I found my fellow students welcoming, accepting and helpful. As a transfer student, this was a real concern for me.

Did you find a mentor while studying at Hofstra University?

I found all my professors to be knowledgeable, interesting and approachable, especially Susan Paraspolo, an adjunct professor in Health Professions, who has since become a mentor for me. Even after taking Professor Paraspolo’s courses, I keep in touch and find supportive guidance from her when needed. Professor Paraspolo showed me that I could be successful.
If you’re looking to transfer, Hofstra has any program you could want. You can study anything and never feel judged. It’s a welcoming environment and you can be a success!

Did you ever imagine studying at Hofstra?

Back in High School, I could not have imagined myself studying at Hofstra but now, after transferring from Nassau Community College and experiencing Hofstra first hand, I  know I can do it. Being a young mother has its struggles, everyone has to struggle with something but you push through it, even when you think you can’t. My daughter Ava Rose gave me the driving force to make it through. I’m doing this for her, to provide for her future. Hofstra made the transition easy for me, and I appreciate that.

Alyssa Jennaco

B.S. Community Health, Psychology Minor
Nassau Community College Transfer Student