I GOT THIS
Class of ’26 • Exercise Physiology Major
About Thomas
School of Health Sciences
Hometown: Joliet, Illinois
Future Plans: Hofstra’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program
Choosing where to go to college is a big decision, and for me, Hofstra quickly felt like the right place. The campus immediately stood out. It has the feel of a close-knit community, but it is large enough that you are always discovering new corners, clubs, and opportunities to explore.
What made the biggest difference were the faculty and the hands-on learning experiences available to students. In my program, I was able to complete internships at Nassau Sports Care and NYU Langone Ambulatory Care, gaining practice in two very different clinical environments. These settings helped me better understand the many paths available in my field.
I also participated in research and even presented an abstract at the Greater New York Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine conference. My undergraduate experience has prepared me for the next step in my educational journey: Hofstra’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
Beyond academics, I found a community through clubs like transcenDANCE, a student-run dance group that gave me some of my favorite memories on campus. If you’re looking for a place where professors support you, opportunities are everywhere, and you can truly find your community, Hofstra is a great place to start.

More About Thomas
When Thomas Johannessen first visited Hofstra University, something about the campus immediately felt right. Hofstra offered the balance he was looking for: a school small enough to feel personal but large enough to offer countless opportunities.
Thomas pursued a degree in exercise physiology, where he quickly found that the program emphasized experiential learning and professional preparation. Faculty mentorship played a key role in shaping his academic experience. With support from Dr. Katie Sell, professor of allied health and kinesiology, Thomas was able to participate in research and explore beyond the classroom.
Through the program, he completed internships at Nassau Sports Care and NYU Langone Ambulatory Care.
“Having internships in two very different clinical environments was a great experience,” he said. “It really allowed me to better understand the scope of possibilities in my field and apply knowledge that will help me throughout my career.”
Research also became an important part of his time at Hofstra. Thomas contributed to multiple research projects and presented an abstract at the Greater New York Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine conference, focusing on the use of BMI measurements in predicting obesity within a firefighter population.
Outside the classroom, Thomas found another passion through campus engagement. One of his favorite memories is performing in the annual showcase for transcenDANCE, a student-run dance club. The final performance each year brings together friends, family, and the Hofstra community to celebrate months of practice and creativity.
After graduating, Thomas will continue his journey at Hofstra. He was accepted into the University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and plans to pursue a career as a physical therapist, building on the experiences and mentorship that shaped his undergraduate years.

As he moves into graduate study, Thomas knows that the community he built at Hofstra will remain an important part of his story.
Thomas’ story isn’t unique at Hofstra. In fact, 98% of 2023-2024 undergraduate degree recipients from the School of Health Sciences reported that they were employed or had started or were planning to start graduate school within one year of graduation. Results are based on data collected from the Alumni Outcomes survey, LinkedIn, National Student Clearinghouse, and Hofstra enrollment (84% knowledge rate). Visit hofstra.edu/outcomes for detailed information.
Find a program that fits your goals. Learn across diverse fields. Join a community that truly cares about you.