Why did you choose to attend Hofstra University?

Location, reputation, and the feeling I had when touring the campus were among the reasons I chose to attend Hofstra. 

I wanted to go to school close to my home so that I could be near my family, but I also wanted that “college experience.” I was fortunate to live on campus and get the benefit of both worlds. 

On career days at my middle and high schools, I learned that many of my teachers had gone to Hofstra and spoke highly of it. As an aspiring educator, that was a huge motivator for me. 

Each time I visited and toured Hofstra’s campus, I left more certain that this was where I belonged. I’m so glad I decided to come here.

Who have been your mentors, and how have they helped you?

Numerous professors and mentors helped me become the person and educator I am today. Dr. [Noreen] Leahy, Professor [Mehri] Fryzel, Dr. [Alan] Flurkey, Professor [Donna] Migdol, Professor [Ashlie] Klepper, Dr. [Amy] Catalano, and Dr. [Sheri] Suzzan are just a few of the wonderful people who guided both my personal and professional growth during my time at Hofstra. 

I am also deeply grateful for my amazing cooperating teachers and participant-observation/student teaching supervisors, whose support and guidance have been invaluable. And of course, I must mention my students – I learn just as much from them as they learn from me. 

I like to think of a person as a mosaic that is shaped and influenced by those around them. These people I’ve mentioned have contributed important pieces to my personal mosaic. For that, I am so grateful.

Talk about the interesting work, research, or internships you have completed.

Education majors are offered many field placement opportunities in local schools throughout their time at Hofstra. I had fantastic experiences as both a participant-observer and a student teacher. The experiences were invaluable.

What was your proudest moment at Hofstra?

At the end of one of my first big participant-observation placements, the students gave me cards my last day in their classroom. Later, I read each card. One student, in the smallest, neatest handwriting, wrote, “Thank you for listening to me.” I often think about those students and their cards. It helps me remember how much of an impact I can have, even during a short period of time.

What will you miss most about Hofstra?

There are so many things I am going to miss about being on Hofstra’s campus. I’ll miss the scenery – especially the tulips that bloom every April and May. I’ll miss my dorm, crossing the Unispan, and eating at Au Bon Pain and the Student Center – especially the poke bowls. 

I’ll miss campus events, like Late Night Breakfast and the Big Egg Hunt. But most of all, I’ll miss the friends I’ve made. I met some of my favorite people in the world at orientation the summer before freshman year, and I’ll always be grateful for the time we’ve spent together.

What are your plans after graduation?

Just two days after undergraduate graduation, I will continue at Hofstra as a grad student in the MA program for Elementary Education: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). I am also applying for elementary education positions for the fall.

What advice do you have for first-year students who have interests similar to yours?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t forget to send that email or make that phone call. Get to know your professors, and ask them for any and all advice. Keep in touch with your classmates and friends. Look for and use all the resources available to Hofstra students to help you thrive. 

Get involved with anything that interests you! Find ways to be a leader. Go to events during common hour, at night, and on weekends. Read the “This Week at Hofstra” emails and follow all the Hofstra social media accounts – there’s so much to do if you know where to look.

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