Career Design & Development

Meet Sorelle Ineza, a standout student-athlete whose journey at Hofstra University exemplifies the power of dedication, balance, and leveraging campus resources for success. Juggling the demands of basketball, academics, and career development, Sorelle not only thrived on the court but also secured a prestigious postgraduate internship with the NCAA. Reflecting on her experience, Sorelle underscores the importance of leadership experiences, resilience, mentoring, and collaborative campus support at Hofstra.

At the dynamic intersection of sports and career exploration, Sorelle discovered a passion for sports communications during her sophomore year. From there, she sought out industry mentors and participated in formal mentoring programs. On an individual level, Sorelle shadowed mentors in the Hofstra Athletics Communications and Marketing departments, receiving invaluable support from professionals like Rachel Vogel, Stephen Gorchov, Daniel Savarino, and Hannah Geller. According to Sorelle, “They were a huge help in teaching me the skills necessary to be successful in their profession.” Additionally, Sorelle joined the Women’s Sports Foundation/NBC Sport Group Mentoring Program.

In addition to participating in mentoring, Sorelle took the initiative to incorporate career development into her leadership experiences. She served as the media relations coordinator for Hofstra’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Executive Board for two years, aligning her career and athletics passions with a role through which she honed her media skills. Sorelle also chose to participate in the Pride Leadership Academy, through which she developed her personal leadership style and learned a variety of leadership strategies and tactics that she will take with her into her desired future career with the NCAA.

When reflecting on how Hofstra’s support systems helped her juggle the competing demands of her athletics commitments and preparation for her career, Sorelle noted the importance of mentoring and synergistic relationships among campus departments that helped her navigate Hofstra’s resources. “I have to give a huge shoutout to our director of women’s basketball operations, Shaaliyah Lyons. She played a big part in keeping me focused on my career development. She made sure I used the resources that we have on campus, like the Center for Career Design & Development, and put me in contact with them. I am so thankful for their help.”

Sorelle also noted that the Center for Career Design & Development’s nimble approach to student service was helpful as she balanced competing demands. “They have helped me with my resume, interview process, and confidence building. Even though I had a hectic schedule, they still found time to take me in and prepare me. I would come in after practice or on my off days, or I would exchange emails with them. Sandra Buatti-Ramos is AMAZING! She was available throughout my whole interview process with the NCAA. I truly don’t know what I would have done without her. Every time we met, my confidence would go up. She always took the time to remind me how amazing and prepared I was. She made this whole process a whole lot easier for me. She’s a REAL one!”

When asked how engaging with the Center for Career Design & Development has added value to her experience as a student-athlete, Sorelle explained, “As student-athletes, we often think that we are not qualified to apply for anything because of how much time we spend practicing and playing or sport. I thought that I didn’t have enough experience to apply for the NCAA Postgraduate Internship Program, which was not the case. It is because of the Center for Career Design & Development that I started seeing how valuable and transferable my skills were for the position. Sandra made sure to show me how valuable everything that I have gained while being a student-athlete was. Just to name a few: Hofstra SAAC, Pride Leadership Academy, NCAA Career in Sports Forum, Madison Square Garden, community service, etc.”

Like many college students, Sorelle was initially hesitant to reach out for career preparation assistance, but she explained that her interactions with the staff helped set her at ease. “I was scared to reach out at first, but they made me so comfortable once I got there.” She remarked on her distinguishable experiences with the professionals at the Center for Career Design & Development as a positive influence on her career development. “The staff was very welcoming and supportive. They are professionals who understand what college students need. They ask about your day, classes, practices, games, and more. Very personable people who care about us as human beings! Moreover, they are very flexible and make time for us no matter the circumstances.” Sorelle also reflected on the staff’s ability to tailor their support and services to meet her unique needs. “What stood out to me was how intentional they were in getting to know me at a deeper level. For instance, what motivates me in life, what are my strengths and weaknesses, and more. By doing that, they were able to know who I am as a person and find the tools necessary to connect with me and help me reach my goals.”

As leaders often do, Sorelle reflected on advice she would offer to her student-athlete peers when it comes to navigating the balance between sports and career development. “I would tell them that they are much more than just student-athletes. Yes, it is important to focus on their sports, but life has so much more to offer. It is crucial to make time for career development. Like our coach often says, “the ball will stop bouncing one day,” and you cannot wait until your career is over to find what motivates you outside of your sport or who you are as a person. Get involved on campus, talk to people, network, ask questions, shadow people, etc. We are surrounded by professionals! We often forget how lucky we are because of how consumed we are with our sport. Get outside of your comfort zone, touch on different things, sharpen your skills, and build a network. Put in the same effort in your career development that you put in your sport, and you will understand how powerful and equipped you are to be successful outside of your sport.”

Sorelle also reflected on the importance of connecting with the Center for Career Design & Development. “It is crucial for student-athletes to use the Center for Career Design & Development because of how insightful the staff is. We are much more than just student-athletes and need to think about our future outside of our sports. There's no better place on campus than the Center for Career Design & Development to help us understand our transferable skills, how valuable our experiences are, and how qualified we are to work anywhere we want.”

When asked if there was anything else she would like to note about the support she received at Hofstra, Sorelle stated, “I cannot thank the Center for Career Design & Development enough! They have made my experience a great one and helped me land one of the most prestigious postgraduate internships in the country. Thank you so much!”

Mohamed Abuelsaied, a recent Hofstra MHA graduate, is the person people call when they want to make the impossible possible. His career journey is a testament to perseverance, initiative, and an intrinsic drive to innovate, problem solve, and provide solutions. Originally from Alexandria, Egypt, Mohamed completed his undergraduate studies in architectural engineering at the University of Alexandria. His career began in Kuwait, where he earned a position at one of the most prestigious healthcare facilities in the region and was promoted within one year from senior architect to facilities manager. Mohamed was later promoted to chief facilities management officer and spent over 15 years navigating complex challenges, delivering cutting-edge solutions to stakeholders, and achieving goals others deemed unfeasible. From Egypt to Kuwait to the U.S., Mohamed's career has been defined by his relentless pursuit of excellence and his commitment to striving for equity in the communities he serves.

Seeking to expand his horizons, Mohamed moved to New York to pursue a Master of Health Administration at Hofstra University. His commitment to professional growth did not waver as he worked remotely as a facilities management advisor and completed an internship at Stony Brook University Hospital. Prior to graduating from Hofstra University with his master’s degree, Mohamed secured a position as a healthcare project manager for STV Incorporated, working at its NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island site.

Mohamed's introduction to Hofstra's Center for Career Design & Development came in October 2023, when a colleague recommended its services. Motivated to refine his LinkedIn profile and interviewing skills, Mohamed scheduled an appointment with Sandra Buatti-Ramos, senior associate director of career development & assessment at the center, marking a pivotal moment in his career growth.

When asked how utilizing the support offered by the Center for Career Design & Development added value to his student experience, Mohamed explained: “From my first appointment with Sandra Buatti-Ramos, I received an unparalleled level of dedication and expertise. Within a short period, Sandra provided me with a comprehensive brief of her recommendations, empowering me to refine my LinkedIn profile. Subsequently, during our follow-up session … she meticulously reviewed every aspect of my draft, dedicating nearly an hour and a half to refining the content. Thanks to her unwavering support and expertise, I now boast an exceptional LinkedIn profile, a testament to her remarkable efforts. The impact of the center's services extended far beyond the realms of LinkedIn. They significantly bolstered my confidence in articulating my achievements during interviews, a skill that proved invaluable. Just two weeks after our initial consultation meeting, I secured an interview for a healthcare project manager position at STV, one of the award-winning professional firms that consistently ranks among the country’s top engineering and construction management companies. I received an offer on the very same day.”

Reflecting on his experience with the Career Center staff, Mohamed noted that the efforts of the professionals helped him think differently about himself and his career. “The experience I had with Sandra was superb. She invested over 30 minutes carefully listening to my career journey, and from there, she adeptly crafted insightful notes, ideas, and phrases to enhance my LinkedIn profile. Her adeptness in articulating my career trajectory and the obstacles I've overcome was truly impressive, delivered with both enthusiasm and professionalism.”

To students hesitant about utilizing career services, Mohamed offers strong encouragement. He emphasized the center's ability to provide expert knowledge, valuable insights, and personalized support that can significantly enhance students’ confidence and career prospects. He believes that all students, regardless of their career aspirations, can benefit from the department’s services.

Mohamed acknowledges the remarkable support he received from the Center for Career Design & Development. “I want to express my gratitude for the team's support and the awesome experience I had with them. I am extending my heartfelt thanks for their unwavering commitment to empowering students in their career endeavors.” Mohamed's journey, from Alexandria to NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island, underscores the transformative impact of proactive engagement in career development, perseverance, and the support of dedicated and highly skilled career services professionals.

Ashley Garcia Cervantes’ journey through college has been marked by numerous achievements, thanks in no small part to her unwavering drive for professional development and a commitment to serving others. From securing multiple high-profile internships to being nominated for a Student Leadership Award, Ashley's story is a testament to the power of engagement in career development and leadership activities while in college.

Ashley’s career development journey is nothing short of inspiring. Early on, she recognized the importance of internships in building a strong career foundation. Her proactive approach to career development led her to secure internships at renowned organizations such as Brookhaven National Laboratory, Voya Financial, and Accenture. Ashley also received offers from the Brookhaven Quantum Computing Program and the Protiviti Consultant Summer Internship.

Beyond her internships, Ashley’s leadership skills shone brightly throughout her time at Hofstra University. She was intricately involved with student organizations such as Women in Cybersecurity and the Society of Women Engineers and was a member of W-SPiCE (Women’s Summer Program in Computing/Engineering). Ashley was nominated for a Student Leadership Award in 2023, and she served as a speaker at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Hofstra’s newly constructed Science & Innovation Center.

Ashley was a panelist at the Center for Career Design & Development’s inaugural “How I Got My Internship Panel” event. During the panel, Ashley shared her career journey and insights, helping fellow Hofstra students learn about opportunities and navigate their own paths. Reflecting on her participation, Ashley noted, “Sharing insights and experiences from my internship journey was particularly gratifying. I enjoy giving advice to fellow students navigating the college internship process. I look forward to contributing further to the success of my peers and continuing my journey of growth and achievement.”

When asked how she first became aware of the support offered by the Center for Career Design & Development, Ashley revealed that her first encounter with the Center for Career Design & Development came during her first semester. “I knew Hofstra had a career center, as all colleges typically do. Being eager to find guidance for securing an internship in my first year, I explored the center’s website to learn about the services they offered. During that first semester, I found myself regularly seeking advice at the center. The Quick Question Hours proved to be a lifesaver, seamlessly fitting into my busy schedule. It was during one of these sessions that I landed my first internship,” Ashley shared.

The Center for Career Design & Development’s tailored support was crucial in her success. Whether preparing for traditional interviews or tackling the complexities of consulting case scenarios, the center provided personalized guidance that equipped Ashley with the skills she needed. “Their support wasn't just a one-size-fits-all deal; they tailored it to different interview formats, be it behavioral, consulting, or case scenarios. Whether I needed tips on acing a traditional interview or navigating the complexities of a consulting case, the Career Center had my back. It's safe to say their guidance has been instrumental in shaping my successful journey through college, and I'm grateful for the invaluable support they continue to provide,” Ashley explained.

Ashley also highlighted the Quick Question Hours as an invaluable resource provided by the Center for Career Design & Development. “A standout resource for me has been the Quick Questions service. It's a go-to for last-minute needs or those urgent questions right before an interview. It’s like a personalized Google Assistant – quick, effective, and easy. The accessibility of these resources has made navigating the intricacies of career development a smoother and more successful journey,” she explained.

In addition to the support services offered by the department, Ashley noted that the personal interactions with the staff at the Center for Career Design & Development stood out for her. She appreciated the encouraging words and tailored support, especially given the unique challenges in the tech field. The staff demonstrated a sincere interest in her individual progress, creating a supportive community that extended beyond mere career services.

“The staff has consistently provided me with a positive and welcoming experience,” Ashley said. “What stood out most in my interactions with the staff were their encouraging words and support, especially recognizing the unique challenges in the tech field.” Ashley explained that receiving encouraging words was crucial, and that the staff’s personal investment in her success was evident in the way they expressed a sincere interest in her individual career progress. “This level of personalization and care has made the Career Center not just a service provider but a supportive community for me,” Ashley stated.

To Hofstra students hesitant about utilizing the support services offered by the Center for Career Design & Development, Ashley offers a compelling message: “Don't let hesitations hold you back! The center is here to support, not judge. They are welcoming and understanding, tailoring their assistance to everyone's unique circumstances. Remember, the primary goal of going to college is to secure a job, and the Career Center is your key ally in achieving that.”

Ashley emphasized that the Center for Career Design & Development is a valuable resource for all students, regardless of their career aspirations, offering comprehensive career advice and industry contacts. “The center goes beyond assisting in job-seeking specifics; it also provides comprehensive career advice. Irrespective of your major, they house experts well-versed in the hiring processes across various fields, armed with valuable industry contacts. For those eyeing further education in graduate or PhD programs, the center can guide you through the application process.If the idea of connecting with your coach feels daunting, consider starting with Quick Question Hours. Give it a shot this upcoming semester by bringing in your resume for a quick review. It might be the boost you need,” she advised.

Reflecting on her journey, Ashley expressed deep gratitude for the support she received from the Center for Career Design & Development. “The center has provided me with more than just professional advice; I've found a supportive community where I can freely discuss my achievements and goals. This kind of support group is hard to come by, and I'm truly grateful to have found it.”

Ashley Garcia Cervantes’ story is a shining example of how the right support and resources can transform a student’s career trajectory. The Center for Career Design & Development stands as a beacon of guidance, helping students like Ashley achieve their dreams and make a lasting impact in their fields.

Meet Patrick Wall, a former international student-athlete who successfully transitioned from college student to financial professional. His journey from the tennis courts to securing positions at top financial firms such as Henkel, AG & Co., and Deutsche Bank AG is a testament to the power of determination, strategic networking, self-reflection, and resourcefulness.

Patrick achieved great heights as a college student and reflected on his career development journey as one shaped by tenacity and ingenuity. “In my freshman year, I was focusing on working in wealth management upon graduation,” Patrick shared. “Knowing it was a competitive field, and one made tougher by my status as an international student, I wanted to build out my resume as early as possible. However, I decided to return home to New Zealand for summer break, so I wasn’t able to secure an internship and felt very behind.”

Determined to catch up, Patrick began his networking journey in New Zealand, connecting with professionals in the wealth management space. This initiative continued into his sophomore year, leading to a pivotal connection with the vice president of procurement at Henkel, who is a Hofstra alum. “He took a liking to me and plugged my resume with HR, securing me an interview for an internship position in the finance department. I made my way through the various rounds and eventually secured a position in the Rocky Hill, CT, office, working on the financial controlling team,” he explained.

Realizing that corporate finance was too slow-paced for his liking, Patrick began networking with professionals in consulting, investment banking, wealth management, and asset management. His perseverance paid off when he connected with a Hofstra alum at US Bank working in the Corporate Banking relationship management team. “I secured an interview at US Bank before being declined due to my visa situation but landed on my feet with an interview at another esteemed firm. It was at this time I met a managing director at Deutsche Bank who began mentoring my career moves,” he said. “I received an internship offer at another firm, with the thinking being to enhance my resume for a move to DB upon graduation. However, I was then approached by DB for an interview for an internship within the Corporate Bank and eventually received an offer to join them – thus declining the other offer. I then interned at DB in the summer of 2023 and received a full-time offer to return upon my graduation in 2024.”

When reflecting on how he managed to rebound from unexpected career challenges, Patrick spoke of the importance of networking while in college. “My go-to strategy was targeted messaging on LinkedIn,” he revealed. “I would select firms I wanted to work at and message Hofstra alumni working there, asking to learn more about their career and find out what their job actually entailed. This was very effective for two main reasons: I was able to build out my knowledge of various industries and roles, making each subsequent conversation easier, and I didn’t come across as a student looking to gain a referral but as someone who just wanted to learn and develop.”

Patrick emphasized the importance of doing background research before every coffee chat, attending guest speaker events on campus, and asking well-thought-out questions. “Continuing to build the relationship beyond the initial coffee chat by following up for secondary calls and asking for advice on certain things was key,” he added.

Patrick explained that he also utilized the Career Fairs hosted by the Center for Career Design & Development. “Funnily enough, my first internship at Henkel came about due to a Hofstra Career Fair. I was away the day of the fair for a college tennis match but messaged the recruiter on LinkedIn informing her of my absence, cementing my interest in the company and asking if there was anyone I could talk to to learn more about the company. She then connected me with a Hofstra alum who was the vice president of procurement, and that coffee chat eventually led to my first internship,” he recalled.

When reflecting on his involvement in campus leadership activities, like the Hofstra Hedge Fund Association or the Financial Management Association, and how they contributed to his personal and professional development, Patrick explained, “Being involved in campus leadership activities was a vital component of my growth at Hofstra. When I was president of the Hofstra Hedge Fund Association (Hardline Capital), I had to break down complex ideas to help everyone understand – not just the advanced seniors, but also the freshmen. This forced me to better understand the material and reflect on my own college career to better help the next generation.”

When asked about the value of engaging with the Center for Career Design & Development, Patrick noted that students should utilize the variety of resources available to them. “I think it’s key to tap into the expertise of the staff to craft your resume and help guide you on the initial steps to networking and building out your career,” he emphasized. “They also can help prepare you for interviews with mock interviews and other helpful tips and tricks that can help you stand out for roles.”

For students wondering when they should begin engaging in career development activities, Patrick had this to say: “Start early. You don’t need to know what you want to do out of college, but use your time to best set yourself up – connect with professionals in various roles and just ask them ‘what do you actually do,’ have them walk you through their overall role and describe the day to day,” he advised. “Get internships early and leverage them for your next role. Find a mentor as early as you can, and follow their advice to a tee; they know what they’re talking about.”

Patrick also advises students to learn as much as they can about the support services offered through the Center for Career Design & Development. “One thing, which I wasn’t aware of and wish I’d taken advantage of, was assistance with salary negotiation,” he added. “This is a vital skill and something I wasn’t even aware was offered at Hofstra, so I would strongly recommend tapping into that resource!”

Patrick's story of career advancement highlights the importance of strategic networking, early engagement in career-building activities, and leveraging Hofstra resources such as the Center for Career Design & Development. His story is an inspiration, demonstrating that with determination, persistence, savvy, and the right support, career success is well within reach.

Joseph Falco, a dedicated and ambitious Hofstra University student, emerged as the winner of the Summer 2023 Career Challenge, a unique program designed to enhance students’ career readiness and professional development. Through his engagement in multiple challenge activities, Joseph not only showcased his commitment to professional development but also highlighted the immense value of the resources offered by the Center for Career Design & Development.

Reflecting on his overall experience with the Summer 2023 Career Challenge, Joseph described it as a “blast to participate in.” He remarked, “The assignments I participated in were never tedious, and I often found them to be very insightful.” The program’s dynamic approach kept students motivated and eager to learn during the summer season when many find themselves far from the Center for Career Design & Development’s office in Weller Hall.

The 2023 Summer Career Challenge proved to be a powerful catalyst for Joseph's career preparation. “The career challenge gave me a lot of valuable experience without costing me anything extra,” he said. “Specifically, through the career challenge, I obtained a lot of useful knowledge when it came to building a strong image for myself to employers through interview practice and building my LinkedIn page.” Through these career challenges, Joseph gained essential skills that prepared him for future job opportunities. The practical exercises directly contributed to his preparation for and pursuit of his long-term career goals.

Among the various workshops and activities, the Big Interview assignment stood out as particularly impactful to Joseph. “The experience allowed me to practice answering interview questions while also familiarizing myself with the common interview questions I would have to answer in my field. Alongside showing me how the general interview process goes, the assignment records your answers and allows them to be judged by either AI or yourself, both of which are extremely helpful,” he explained. This practical, hands-on approach significantly enhanced Joseph’s confidence and interviewing competence.

The Summer 2023 Career Challenge also emphasized the importance of building a professional online presence. “One of the greatest insights I received was how to manage and build my LinkedIn page,” Joseph shared. Starting with the creation of a LinkedIn profile, the program ensured that students were well-equipped for internship and job search activities. Subsequent challenges, such as the Forage challenge, further helped them refine their professional brands and online profiles, setting them apart and communicating their value to prospective employers.

For students considering similar career challenges offered by the Career Center, Joseph offers advice: “Do not procrastinate on your career challenges. Each new challenge provides vital insights that are important to obtain sooner rather than later.” Completing assignments promptly allows students to apply the lessons learned to their internship or job searches early, giving them a competitive edge.

According to Joseph, one distinguishing feature of the Summer 2023 Career Challenge was its innovative use of artificial intelligence. “Participants interact with AI to get a feel for successful interviews,” he noted. “While schools generally incentivize avoiding AI, the Summer Career Challenge reminds participants that AI can be a useful assistant in preparing for difficult tasks, job interviews in this case.” This forward-thinking approach sets the program apart from other career development opportunities.

Joseph highly recommends the Center for Career Design & Development’s career challenges to other students, describing his experience as “a free opportunity that takes up minimal time while providing vital insights into increasing your chances of getting a job.” He believes that similar programs can offer unique perspectives on internship and job searching, whether implementing AI or participating in traditional mock interviews for practice.

The support from Hofstra’s Career Center played a crucial role in Joseph's success. “The Center for Career Design & Development is an excellent resource that provided me with professional and exceptional help in pursuing future job prospects. It is obvious that the people involved know about the difficulties that exist in pursuing job opportunities, which gives them insight that they will happily share with you,” Joseph stated.

Joseph Falco exemplifies the skill enhancement and professional development that can be achieved when students step outside of their comfort zones, engage in unique challenges, and utilize the exclusive career support resources offered by the Center for Career Design & Development.