Why did you choose Hofstra?

When I first started applying to colleges, I honestly had no idea where I wanted to go. I applied to many different schools and decided to visit them as well. On the day that my tour was scheduled at Hofstra, there ended up being a huge rainstorm and it was pouring the whole day. Even in the rain our tour guides did an amazing job of showing my family and me around the University. Through all the rain and huge puddles, I got a feeling that I did not get from any of the other colleges that I visited. I knew that I wanted it to be my home for the next 4 years of my life, and I am so very glad that it was!

Who were your mentors and what made them special to you?

My mentor is Dr. Richard Puerzer, chair of the engineering department. Dr. Puerzer has helped and guided me many times throughout my Hofstra career. The first time I spoke one-on-one with Dr. Puerzer was during the spring semester of my freshman year. I started as a civil engineering major, but after hearing him speak about industrial engineering during one of my classes, I became very interested. After speaking with him, I decided to switch into industrial engineering, and I could not have been happier. He has been with me every step of the way, whether it was helping me make my schedule or answering any general questions I had. I am proud to say I was a student of his.

Tell us about some research projects, internships, or study abroad programs you participated in.

During the summer before my junior year, I was able to get an engineering internship with the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). It was such an amazing first experience working as a real engineer and seeing what I could be doing once I graduate. My specific job site was located at the Croton Filtration Plant in the Bronx. It is such a unique place, as the whole facility was built underneath a functioning golf course, the deepest level being about 10 stories underground. I met so many great people working there, and I feel like it helped prepare me for life after college. I was able to intern again at the DEP the summer before my senior year and extend that internship part time throughout the school semester. Working with the DEP was truly an amazing experience that taught me what engineering is like outside of the classroom. The team of engineers that I worked with were very knowledgeable while also being down to earth, and they treated me as one of their own. With my work experience, I was able to secure a full-time offer after graduation with H2M Architects + Engineers as a staff water engineer.

What is your proudest Hofstra moment?

My proudest Hofstra moment probably is being selected to represent the Fred DeMatteis School of Engineering and Applied Science as a Commencement profile. Being chosen as the Class of 2024 featured graduate is an honor, and it is proof that my hard work throughout these past four years did not go unrecognized. I have worked hard to excel academically ̶ maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.7 and being on the Dean’s List and Provost’s List.

What will you miss the most about Hofstra?

What I will miss the most about Hofstra are the friends and connections I have made throughout my four years here. I have met so many unique and interesting people during my time at Hofstra, and I am glad to call these people my friends. I will miss each and every one of them so much because of how much they have added to my life. Even though we will still be friends after we graduate, nothing will ever beat being able to see them every day, whether it be just going to class or walking around our beautiful campus.

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