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I chose Hofstra because it offered the perfect balance: a strong mechanical engineering program and a small, supportive community. I wanted to know my professors and classmates, and at Hofstra, that’s exactly what I found.

From my first semester, I was taking engineering courses and building real relationships. By sophomore year, I became a peer teacher for the first-year engineering design course. That opportunity shaped my confidence and leadership skills.

My engineering professors, including Dr. Kevin Craig and Dr. Gozde Ustuner, pushed me to see myself not just as a student, but as an engineer. The faculty know you, mentor you, and truly care about your growth. Their mentorship helped me secure internships and ultimately a position in Con Edison’s Leadership Development Program, which I will begin in August.

Beyond engineering, I found community through Hofstra Hillel [The Center for Jewish Life on Campus] and the Society of Women Engineers. The friendships and support system I built here mean everything to me. Hofstra helped me grow into the engineer and person I am today. If you are looking for a place where you will be supported, challenged, and truly known, Hofstra is that place.

Sophia served three years as a peer teacher for the first-year engineering design course, mentoring new ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½ as they navigated their first builds. She also gained industry experience through internships with National Grid and Hunter Roberts Construction Group, where she worked as a field engineer on an active hospital renovation. These roles helped her refine her interests and explore different paths within mechanical engineering.

Leadership through the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) led her to attend the National SWE Conference in New Orleans. After uploading her resume to the conference portal, she was contacted by Con Edison about its Leadership Development Program. Following an in-person interview at the conference, she received and accepted a full-time offer.

Throughout her four years, faculty mentors played a defining role in helping her navigate her career decisions — providing guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support.

Equally meaningful were the small moments: weekly lab report sessions with the same group of classmates and time spent in the Hillel office with friends.