Image
Select your area below to learn more about your Admission Counselor.
New York Admission Counselors
Texas
Daniel Alexandre
516-463-6554 | Send an Email
Hometown: Boston, MA
College Major: Music & Business
Unique fact about myself: I play piano, guitar, bass, drums, and the alto saxophone
Favorite ice cream flavor: Strawberry
Favorite book: Stamped From the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi
When I'm not reading applications…: I'm binge watching documentaries on Netflix or playing 2k
If I could go anywhere in the world: Take me back to Ballyvaughan, Ireland!
Advice for the first year of college: Asking for help is the best way to get it
College search tip: Remember to take a moment to appreciate yourself for all the hard work you've done to get this far!
Theresa Button
516-463-6319 | Send an Email
Hometown: Tallahassee, FL
College Major: Psychology
Unique fact about myself: I once drank a 3lb milk shake.
Favorite ice cream flavor: Rocky Road
Favorite book: Unbroken - Laura Hillenbrand
When I'm not reading applications…: I'm exploring a new Long Island trail.
If I could go anywhere in the world: Iceland
Advice for the first year of college: Write all deadlines for the semester in your planner the first week of classes and assignments won't sneak up on you.
College search tip: It's ok not to know your major when you're looking for colleges. Having an idea of the environment and community you are looking for and keeping your options open with majors is also a great approach!
California Admission Counselors
Andrew Cavara
516-463-6445 | Send an Email
Hometown: West Chester, PA
College Major: Political Science/Secondary Education
Unique fact about myself: I have 6 siblings (5 brothers, 1 sister)
Favorite ice cream flavor: Cookies and Cream
When I'm not reading applications…: I am watching the Eagles, Phillies, Flyers or Sixers.
My most memorable college experience: My most memorable college experience was student teaching.
If I could go anywhere in the world: Rome, Italy
Advice for the first year of college: Get involved in as many clubs and organizations as you can. College is a time of discovery and getting involved on campus is a great way to experience new things.
College search tip: Get in touch with your admission counselor early and often. Every college has a different admissions process and your admission counselor can advise you on the best application strategy.
Courtney Cyr
516-463-7161 | Send an Email
Hometown: Mystic, CT
College Major: I completed my bachelor's degree in Biology and my master's degree in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies – both here at Hofstra!
Unique fact about myself: I am a vegetarian – if you need veggie-friendly restaurant recommendations, I am the girl to ask.
Favorite ice cream flavor: Mint chocolate chip (with lots of hot fudge)
Favorite book: Heart Talk by Cleo Wade
When I'm not reading applications…: I am traveling! I love exploring new places and checking out local shops and restaurants.
If I could go anywhere in the world: I would head to a remote tropical island. I am a huge beach bum!
Advice for the first year of college: Get involved! Keep in mind that your college experience is what you make of it – put yourself out there and you won't regret it, I promise.
College search tip: Visit campus, and get to know your admission counselor! Most admission counselors are not as intimidating as you might think. We are here to help, and can't wait to get to know you as you work through your college admissions process!
Claire Fitzgibbon
516-463-7160 | Send an Email
Hometown:
Seward, Nebraska
College Major:
Marketing and German. I'm pursuing a graduate degree at Hofstra in Industrial/Organizational Psychology.
Favorite Month:
October - college football, the changing leaves on Hofstra's beautiful campus, a chilly morning followed by a warm, sunny afternoon...what else could you want?
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
South Africa, Iceland and Australia are currently tops on my wish list. However, a visit to my family in Nebraska is always a welcome trip!
Unique fact about myself:
the first snowboard run I ever went down was the 1964 and 1976 Women's Olympic run. I was studying abroad in Innsbruck, Austria, and decided it was the perfect place to take up a winter sport! Needless to say, I did more scooting down that run than actual snowboarding!
Advice for the first year of college:
don't wait for your college experience to come to you - go out and start your experience. Get to know the people on your floor. Get involved in a club or new activity you may not be familiar with. Go talk to your professor during office hours when you've become intrigued by a class topic.
Florida Admission Counselors
Christopher Hoffman
New Jersey and Minnesota
516-463-6589
Hometown: Flemington, NJ
College Major: Public Relations (Minor in Music)
When I'm not reading applications, I enjoy: Writing and recording music, watching superhero movies, and finding the best mac & cheese that New York has to offer.
Favorite jelly bean flavor? Tutti Frutti
Unique fact about myself? I can play eight instruments, and once I master the piano, it'll be nine!
Favorite book? Angels & Demons by Dan Brown
College search tip? Keep an open mind! Sometimes your best fit is a school that doesn't make your initial list. But remember that a college or university isn't just the sum of its parts; it's somewhere that you'll call home for four years, and if you keep an open mind, that home will give you more opportunities than you ever thought possible!
Alyssa M. Knipfing
516-463-4164 | Send an Email
Hometown: Merrick, NY
College Major: Elementary Education & Social Studies Education
Unique fact about myself: Lived in Greece for a month!
Favorite ice cream flavor: Pistachio froyo
Favorite book: The Great Gatsby
When I'm not reading applications…: I'm at the gym!
If I could go anywhere in the world: Disney World, Florida (favorite place)
Advice for the first year of college: Time management is the key to success.
College search tip: Look at the transportation options nearby (airports/train stations/etc.) – You want to make sure that you can easily get back home for spontaneous weekends and holidays!
Jane LaRocco
516-463-6389 | Send an Email
Hometown:
Scotia, New York
College Major:
Double Undergraduate Major in Spanish and Sociology
Graduate Major in Foundations of Education
When I'm not reading applications, I enjoy . . .
traveling to new and interesting places, visiting national parks, spending time at the beach, drinking really good coffee, eating jelly beans, shopping at TJ Maxx and spending time with friends and family.
Favorite jelly bean flavor:
Jelly Belly Sizzling Cinnamon
Unique fact about myself:
While in college I spent a year living and studying in Spain. I was smitten with the love of travel and have the passport to prove it. I've visited more than 30 different countries in Europe, Latin America and Asia and can't wait to add to my list!
Favorite book:
Harry Potter series, Big Stone Gap series and the Thornbirds.
College search tip:
Trust your instincts. Selecting a college or university will be one of the first major decisions that you'll make. It's important for you to make an informed decision. You'll also find, however, that your final choice will be emotionally based on a feeling about where you will best fit in and be most happy. Even amongst colleges which are similar in size, quality and academic offerings, each is unique in atmosphere, student diversity, and general feel. In the end, one college will most likely "feel right" to you. You'll be able to easily imagine yourself as a student there. Go with your instincts!
Joseph Marrone
516-463-6711 | Send an Email
Hometown: Trinity, Florida
College Major: Marketing and Management
Unique fact about myself: I used to want to be a meteorologist.
Favorite ice cream flavor: Mint Cookies n' Cream
Favorite book: or Favorite movie: Oryx and Crake/Dark Knight Rises
When I'm not reading applications…: I am at a show seeing my favorite DJ perform, or cooking up some innovative dishes!
If I could go anywhere in the world: Australia or Falkland Islands
Advice for the first year of college: Find an on-campus job. It is a great way to get some extra money in your pocket, meet administrators, and maybe launch a potential career in higher-education!
College search tip: Think about the post-grad life as well. It's important to look at success rates of students and what resources you can utilize still as an alum.
Krysten Murphy
516-463-4364 | Send an Email
Hometown: Wingdale, New York
College major: Public Relations, Communications
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Halo Top Chocolate Fudge Brownie, basically anything chocolate & more chocolate
Favorite Book: A Song of Fire & Ice Series (GoT)
When I'm not reading applications, I enjoy: Going to the beach, shopping, spending time with friends & family, watching sports & watching every scary movie possible
Most memorable college experience: Meeting my sorority sisters, who became my best friends & meeting my fiancé.
Unique fact about myself: I learned how to play the ukulele by listening to Eddie Vedder on repeat. Thanks Eddie!
If I could go anywhere in the world, I would go to: Australia! My dream is to go shark cage diving & see the amazing great white sharks. I'd love to go to Alaska & Greece too.
College search tip: Put everything in prospective, definitely make a pros & cons list. Don't make a decision based on pictures or other people's opinions. Go & actually check out all the schools first-hand, & if you can envision yourself at that school for four years or more, you're on the right path.
Andrea Nadler
516-463-6693 | Send an Email
Favorite Hofstra Tradition:
Homecoming. All the student organizations build a float and march in the parade. As a finalist for Homecoming Queen in 1997, I felt honored to be part of the festivities.
Favorite ice cream flavor:
Cookies 'n' Cream
College Major and Graduate Degree:
B.A. in Psychology; M.S. Ed in School Counseling
Unique fact about myself:
I am originally from an urban area (Brooklyn, NY)... yet I love country music.
College search tip:
Be honest with yourself through the process. You will experience great personal growth and find out a lot about yourself and the kind of environment you are seeking. Ask questions of the current [college] students you meet on campus and then observe the interactions among students as they move about on campus [in a coffee shop or in the quad] in their natural everyday routine. You will learn a lot about the "campus culture" through this experience.
Advice for first year:
College life is very fast-paced. Keep yourself organized and take advantage of the opportunities that are available (academic and co-curricular), but be careful not to overload yourself. Most new students are anxious about meeting new people and making friends, so do not be afraid to be the first to reach out to someone new and introduce yourself.
Kristy Niemeyer
Northern California, Pennsylvania, and Western New York
516-463-4165 | Send an Email
Hometown: Commack, NY
College Major: Elementary Education
Unique fact about myself: My first flight ever was to Italy!
Favorite ice cream flavor: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Favorite book: Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult
When I'm not reading applications…: At the beach or sitting outside reading a book.
If I could go anywhere in the world: Greece
Advice for the first year of college: Learn as much as you can about the campus and get involved!
College search tip: Go with your gut, you'll know it's right when you set foot on campus
Ying Qiu
516-463-7324 | Send an Email
Hometown: Xi'an, China
College Major: B.A. in Language and Culture/M.A. in International Political Economy/Ph.D. in Geography and Environmental Sciences
Unique fact about myself: Although I was born and grew up in China, I lived six years in Britain and five years in Thailand, and this has been my 4th year in the USA. In the past 17 years I travelled extensively in the East and the West for implementing projects, attending and organizing conferences, or pursuing degrees, etc.
Favorite ice cream flavor: Tiramisu
When I'm not reading applications…: I enjoy reading, cooking, jogging or simply spending time with my family and friends.
My most memorable college experience: I took an internship at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, which not only broadened my horizon, but also helped me to make up my mind to pursue a career in international education to promote the exchanges and cooperation among the young people from different countries/cultures/languages.
If I could go anywhere in the world: I would like to go to anywhere that I have not visited, e.g. Greece, Egypt, Australia, Brazil.
Advice for the first year of college: First year of college is a time for you to celebrate your independence, prepare for a future full of opportunities and embrace a world of infinite possibilities. It is also a time for you to witness your growth and face a lot of challenges. My advice is to make full use of all resources around you and explore your potential. Most importantly, enjoy yourself!
College search tip: It is important to make an informed decision. So, talk to admissions counselors via email, on-line chat, education fair or meet them. Do your own research online. If it is possible, take a campus tour. Feel it with your heart. Follow your instinct.
Bryan Rothstein
516-463-7465 | Send an Email
Hometown: Bayside (Queens), New York
College Major: Undergraduate: Psychology and Social Science, Graduate: Higher Education Administration
Unique fact about myself: I collect licenses plates and hope to one day have one from every state and every country.
Favorite ice cream flavor: Cookies and Cream
Favorite movie: The Fast and the Furious Series (I'm a car guy)
When I'm not reading applications…: Hanging out with friends and family, going on adventures, attending car shows, or sitting by the pool.
If I could go anywhere in the world: I would go to Greece, Italy, Ireland, or Israel.
Advice for the first year of college: Get involved, connect with your campus, and explore courses that interest you! I found my niche and career path by taking that advice.
College search tip: VISIT! I remember when I was looking at colleges the visit made all the difference. I met with current students, faculty, administrators and immediately felt the connection. You'll hear often about best fit, when you find it; you'll know…and hopefully it is here with us at Hofstra!
Lindsay Salvucci
516-463-9010 | Send an Email
Hometown:
Ronkonkoma, NY
College Major:
BA Elementary Education & Speech Communications and Rhetorical Studies, I also have an M.S. in Special Education
When I'm not reading applications, I like to…
sit on the beach and enjoy a good book.
Favorite Hofstra Tradition:
The Dutch festival to celebrate Hofstra's heritage. I always enjoyed the cultural entertainment ranging from foods to unique arts and crafts. I also love walking around the beautiful campus along the thousands of tulips that are planted each spring.
Favorite Book:
Bridge to Terabithia
Favorite ice cream flavor:
Cherry Garcia
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I have visited many different countries, but I still want to be able to travel and see the entire United States. We have so many amazing places in the in the USA that we sometimes forget that it is right within our reach.
College search tip:
The best way to really get a feel for a college is by visiting the campus, taking a tour, meeting with students, attending a class, reading the campus newspaper and eating in the cafeteria. You have to feel "at home" at the place where you will spend the next four years of your life, so visiting is important.
Advice for the first year of college:
College is the time for you to really discover who you are, what you enjoy doing, what you're good at, and what you want to be. It's not a race, take your time and enjoy exploring your options.
Meagan Schuster
516-463-4014 | Send an Email
Hometown: Bellmore, New York
College Major: English and Psychology
Unique fact about myself: I named my dog Achilles because I thought it would be funny to teach him to heel.
Favorite ice cream flavor: Mint Chocolate Chip
Favorite book: "The Picture of Dorian Gray" – Oscar Wilde
When I'm not reading applications…: I'm watching Netflix, cheering on the New York Rangers, listening to music, or spending time with friends and family.
If I could go anywhere in the world: The Irish countryside.
Advice for the first year of college: Get out of your comfort zone! College is the time to explore new things, so join as many clubs as you think might interest you, take classes outside of your intended major, and meet new people along the way!
College search tip: Visit! The best way to know if a school is the right fit for you, or where you'll feel the most comfortable, is by stepping foot on campus and seeing what it's actually like in person.
Amy Vu
516-463-6554 | Send an Email
Hometown: Babylon, NY
College Major: Sociology and Minor in Writing
Unique fact about myself: I proudly never did an all-nighter in college!
Favorite ice cream flavor: Coffee
When I'm not reading applications…: I am reading a good book or watching a movie!
Most memorable college experience: Never doing an all-nighter! And making long-lasting friendships.
If I could go anywhere in the world: Any of the cat islands in Japan
Advice for the first year of college: Figure out what study habits work for you, and whether you like to study in groups or by yourself!
College search tip: I recommend that you check your email regularly! You certainly do not want to miss out on any great opportunity that comes your way. Visit as many colleges as you can! You will see which college(s) feel right for you.
Shannon Decker
516-463-6689 | Send an Email
Hometown: Melville, NY
College Major: Communication Studies
Unique fact about myself: I was a competitive cheerleader for 10 years!
Favorite ice cream flavor: Coffee or Mint Chocolate Chip -- can't choose between the two.
Favorite book: The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein.
When I'm not reading applications…: I'm going on hikes with my dog Oreo!
If I could go anywhere in the world: I would travel to Santorini, Greece.
Advice for the first year of college: Get involved! Joining clubs and organizations is a great way to meet new friends and find your place on campus. It's also a great way to find leadership opportunities and start building your resume.
College search tip: You don't have to know what major you'd like to pursue in college yet -- but look for schools that have plenty of interesting options for you to explore! This way, you can take classes that interest you and eventually pursue a major/career that you truly enjoy.
Amanda Hudson
Image
516-463-6711 | Send an Email
Hometown: West Palm Beach, FL
College Major: Theatre
Unique fact about myself: I enjoy performing Stand Up Comedy
Favorite ice cream flavor: Cookie Dough/Cookies N Cream!
Favorite book: Yes Please by Amy Poehler
When I'm not reading applications…: I am playing with my dog, Pig and watching too much reality tv
If I could go anywhere in the world: The Maldives!
Advice for the first year of college: Take care of your mental health! Join clubs to build friendships and always check in with yourself. College is a big change, be kind to yourself and others!
College search tip: Always visit campus if you can! Seeing it in person can really make or break your decision on if a college is right for you.
Katie Bittlingmeyer
Image
516-463-6319 | Send an Email
Hometown: Bellport, NY
College Major: Drama Performance
Favorite ice cream flavor: Cookie Dough
Favorite book: Me Before You By JoJo Moyes
When I'm not reading applications…: I am writing note cards
If I could go anywhere in the world: Italy or Paris
Advice for the first year of college: Follow your heart always...
College search tip: find the place that feels like home
Puja Patel
Image
516-463-7458 | Send an Email
Hometown: Long Island, New York
College Major: Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Unique fact about myself: I am cross dominant
Favorite ice cream flavor: S'mores ice cream
Favorite book: Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer
When I'm not reading applications…: I'm crafting DIY Projects
If I could go anywhere in the world: California to visit Taco Bell Headquarters
Advice for the first year of college: Get out of your comfort zone, network as much as you can, and take advantage of the opportunities offered
College search tip: Research, visit, and contact the schools you're interested. Then evaluate and narrow down to see how they can help you achieve your future goals
Francisco Resto
Image
516-463-7151 | Send an Email
Hometown: Queens, NY
College Major: Accounting/Business Management
Unique fact about myself: I love to sing and play guitar!
Favorite ice cream flavor: Rocky Road
Favorite book: The Harry Potter Series
When I'm not reading applications…: I'm cuddling my dog, Luna.
If I could go anywhere in the world: Puerto Rico
Advice for the first year of college: Get involved! Find at least one club or organization that interests you and JOIN!
College search tip: Try your best to visit all of your potential schools before making the final decision. You'll get a much better "feel" for the school in-person.
Luke McGrath
Image
516-463-5018 | Send an Email
Hometown: Pennsauken, NJ
College Major: English/East Asian Studies
When I'm not reading applications, I like to… watch a good movie or get out in the ocean and surf!
Favorite Hofstra Tradition: Keeping an eye out for the Hofstra cats and squirrels.
Favorite Book: The Count of Monte Cristo
Favorite ice cream flavor: Vanilla Bean
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? New Zealand
College search tip: I'd recommend considering where you want to live geographically and taking a look at the websites of colleges you are interested in and really research program options and reach out to admissions counselors. Find what is the best fit for you!
Advice for the first year of college: Join clubs and organizations that interest you and do your best to get the most out of your classes!
Jonathan Amatulli
Image
516-463-6554 | Send an Email
Hometown: Wantagh, NY
College Major: Marketing / Sports & Entertainment Management
When I'm not reading applications, I like to… watch/write about hockey!
Favorite Hofstra Tradition: Fall Fest, for sure!
Favorite Book: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Favorite ice cream flavor: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? Italy
College search tip: Visit campus!
Advice for the first year of college: Definitely get involved.
Claire Desio
Image
516-463-4164 | Send an Email
Hometown: Smithtown, NY
College Major: BA in History, MA in Higher Education Administration
When I'm not reading applications, I like to… Go to/watch Mets games!
Favorite Hofstra Tradition: Fall Fest
Favorite Book: Jesse's Girl by Miranda Kenneally
Favorite ice cream flavor: Mint chocolate chip!!!
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? The Maldives!
College search tip: You do not need to come into college with a major, a lot of students start out as undecided. It gives you an opportunity to try different classes and hopefully you can figure out what you have a true passion for!
Advice for the first year of college: Join everything! Joining any clubs or organizations that you have an interest in are both fun, and are a great way to make friends!
Francesca Olivo
Image
516-463-6292 | Send an Email
Hometown: North Bellmore, New York
College Major: English Literature & Rhetoric
When I'm not reading applications, I like to… go hiking throughout the northeast, grow vegetables in my garden, and make pizza for my loved ones. I also love to experiment with my soft pretzel recipe! Cheese-filled jalapeño pretzels, anyone?
Favorite Book: My Best Friend's Exorcism by Grady Hendrix
Favorite ice cream flavor: Pistachio
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? I would go to Ireland. The culture, hospitality, and landscapes are marvelous!
College search tip: Visit the colleges you're applying to! Regardless of a virtual or in-person tour, getting an opportunity to see the campus and talk to current students will be a massive help in determining if you and a school are aligned. Also, keep a priority list of what YOU want to get out of the college experience. During the search portion of your journey, you might receive a lot of feedback on what you "should" want from a college. While outside perspectives are good to keep in mind, it is essential to remain true to the aspects that matter most personally.
Advice for the first year of college: Shop around different clubs and organizations! Experience a club that you've always wanted to try but never got the chance to. Sometimes branching out of your comfort zone can lead to discovering new passions or hobbies. Engaging with your campus life is crucial to getting the most fulfilling college experience.