June 2011

June 2011
Jessica Robles

Q & A:

• What was your favorite class and who was your favorite professor at Hofstra?
  My favorite class was Psychology of Sexual Health with Dr. Corinne Kyriacou.
• What is your field of specialty, and how did you come to work in the industry?
  I currently work as a community health educator, particularly with maternal and infant health.  In high school I was introduced to public health and advocacy. While at Hofstra, I interned at Planned Parenthood of Nassau County and NARAL Pro-Choice New York. I have always had a passion for women's health issues, reproductive health, and women's rights. After graduation I knew I wanted to fuse my passion with the skills I learned as a community health major – I landed the perfect position as a community health educator, with a primary focus on women's health.
• What at Hofstra gave you your edge?
  The relationships I developed with my professors and Hofstra administrators gave me my edge. I fostered mentoring relationships, and have maintained them since graduation. The professors in the Health Professions and Kinesiology Department care about their students' academic, professional, and personal goals. Student Affairs administrators taught me invaluable leadership skills and gave me the opportunity to implement programs for other students.
• What advice would you give current Hofstra students?
  Hofstra is the perfect place to explore your interests, and students should take advantage of the endless possibilities an education at Hofstra can provide. Get involved in clubs and organizations that interest you, especially those that complement your major or area of study.
• In one word, how would you describe Hofstra?
  Progressive.
• As a student, what were your goals for the future?
  My goals were to graduate from Hofstra and find a job as a health educator for a leading women's reproductive health organization. I also wanted to return to school for a master's degree in public health or nursing.
• Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
  I will begin pursuing a master's degree in higher and postsecondary education at Columbia University, Teachers College, in fall 2011. In 10 years, I see myself working as a university administrator, perhaps as a director of student activities. I will definitely continue to advocate for women's rights.