Why did you choose Hofstra?

I chose Hofstra because it was close to home, but it was also far enough away to have that true college experience. I was also accepted into the New Opportunities At Hofstra (NOAH) Scholars Program and it solidified my decision to attend the school. Admission in the NOAH program is highly competitive. Once you are selected, you must attend a 6-week summer program in which you take multiple courses before beginning your first semester to familiarize yourself with the responsibilities of being a college student. The program gave me an advantage because I started my freshman year with a 4.0 and a close-knit, supportive community.

Can you tell us some more about your Hofstra journey as a first-gen student?

I will say that my transition to college and journey at Hofstra was smoother because of the NOAH program and having a community that believed in me and supported me in my personal, professional, and academic growth. First-generation students at Hofstra have access to a plethora of resources to enhance our learning experience. For example, Roosevelt Smith Jr., the associate dean and director of the NOAH program, hosts first-gen dinners where faculty and staff cook for not only first-gen students but anyone who is looking for that supportive community and a sense of belonging.

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

Through my courses, I have assisted in the development of a website for the Zarb Store, the student-run shop at the Zarb School of Business that sells specifically business school merchandise. I have also written a business proposal for an established company and created a commercial for my social media marketing course.

What is your proudest Hofstra moment?

Becoming a resident assistant while I was at Hofstra was one of my proudest moments. The experience forced me to step beyond my comfort zone and push myself to be more social and active on campus. It’s been a roller coaster, but it’s also been one of the most satisfying experiences knowing that I could potentially impact the first-year students’ college experience in some way. I hope they learned something from me. 

However, my proudest moment has to be graduation. These last four years have motivated me both professionally and academically. Hofstra University has prepared me for what comes next. I cannot wait to begin the next chapter of my life.

What will you miss the most about Hofstra?

I have truly built a supportive community at Hofstra. I will miss how close I am to my friends and the community that I built.

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

I have a few individuals who have supported me throughout my Hofstra journey. Roosevelt Smith Jr.; Deysi Aguliar, assistant dean of the NOAH program; Doreen Dacilas, resident director of Bill of Rights and Alliance Halls; and Lutisha Vickerie, associate dean of undergraduate programs for the Zarb School. They have supported and helped me grow while at Hofstra and gave me clear direction throughout my four years.

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