Why did you choose to attend Hofstra University?

After the pandemic, staying close to home was important to me and my parents. While I originally thought I might go to school in New York City, most were only offering virtual tours when I was starting my college search. Hofstra was one of the few schools I visited in person, and I immediately felt a connection to the campus. I loved the open space, the welcoming atmosphere, and the people I met during my visit.

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

The entire Biology Department at Hofstra has played a role in mentoring me. I’ve taken classes with most of the faculty, and they’ve always been supportive. 

Dr. [Javier] Izquierdo stands out the most. Even though I never expected to be working in microbiology, he invited me to work in his lab, encouraged me to explore different types of research, and helped me find a project that resonated with me. 

I’ve also learned so much from Dr. [Jason] Williams, whose parasitology class was fascinating and challenging. Dr. [Peter] Daniel has been incredibly patient and kind, guiding me through tough material in physiology. Even professors I never had for class, like Dr. [Luciana] Santoferrara and Dr. [Maureen] Krause, have gone out of their way to help and provide guidance when I needed it. I’m grateful for all of them. 

Beyond the Biology Department, I’ve also received guidance and support from Dr. [Vandana] Bindra who was my organic chemistry professor. She helped me through the toughest year of my undergraduate career. In addition, Dr. [Emily] Mundorff who was my biochemistry professor was always encouraging and inspiring whether it was talks about academics or life in general.

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

I’ve been conducting research in Dr. Izquierdo’s microbiology lab, where I’ve focused on microbes that promote plant growth. It’s something I never imagined that I’d enjoy, but I have fallen in love with it. The work started with learning lab equipment 

and basic techniques and evolved into more complex experiments and presentations. I love being in the lab, solving problems, and working on a micro level. 

Outside of Hofstra, I’ve done clinical research at Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research. With the help of Dr. [Mark] Richman who was my mentor at Northwell LIJ, I was able to experience a different side of research, and even contributed to two published papers. Seeing research from both sides has truly been an amazing experience.

What was your proudest moment at Hofstra?

Winning the John C. Johnson Award for best research poster at the TriBeta Regional Research Convention was my proudest moment. I’d put so much time and effort into my work, and that meant sometimes missing time with friends just to spend more time in the lab. 

I didn’t expect to win anything, and when they called my name at the convention, I was shocked. My friends actually had to nudge me to get up and accept the award. That recognition felt like a win for all the hard work, the research, and the support I’ve had throughout my time at Hofstra.

What will you miss most about Hofstra?

I’ll miss the community. Not seeing my friends every day will be hard. We’ve shared everything for the past four years, from exams to lab time to everyday moments. I’ll also deeply miss my professors, especially the ones I’ve grown so close to. They’ve made this journey so special. Even the small things, like chatting in the hallways or walking across campus, have made Hofstra feel like home.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to continue working in research, ideally in a lab setting where I can keep doing hands-on work. I'm also considering graduate school or even a PhD program down the line. Medical school is still a possibility, but for now I’m focusing on exploring my options, gaining more experience, and staying connected to the type of science I love. I’d love to follow in the footsteps of the professors who have inspired me.

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

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, talk to your professors, and connect with upperclassmen. Use every resource available. There are so many students and faculty who are ready to help. Also, don’t feel pressured to follow a rigid academic path. If something different interests you, explore it! I even took creative writing classes because writing is a passion of mine. Give yourself space to try new things, make connections, and be flexible. Those choices can make all the difference in your college experience.

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