Comfort can be a dangerous thing...

Now don't get me wrong, I'm all for snuggling in a blanket after a long day with a warm cup of hot cocoa, but the kind of comfort I'm talking about is the kind that stops you from learning something new. Opportunities arise every day to learn something or to move you in a new direction, and sometimes it opens an entirely new path that you never thought possible. Take my story of how I even got to the Career Center in first place:

When I was an undergraduate at SUNY New Paltz I studed Psychology, Art, and Disaster Studies (so pretty much nothing career-process-related). I became a Resident Assistant and in my second year, I chose to take on a new paraprofessional role as a 'Peer Career Assistant', where I acted as a liaison between my residence hall and the Career Center. I learned how to write resumes and cover letters, develop better interviewing skills, and gained a better awareness of the etiquette of the career application process. Fast forward to applying for Hofstra's Mental Health Counseling program, my position at the Career Center was brought to my attention by my interviewer (thanks, Dr. Seirup!) because of my previous experience as the PCA, and it's been a whirlwind ever since! I've learned so much more about the career process, and although there was definitely a learning curve, I was able to roll with the discomfort and begin expanding my knowledge about the ins and out of career centers and external relations--things I never thought I'd learn being a Psychology major in undergrad!

Working as the Career Center GA has really opened my eyes to the world of Student Affairs and Higher Education and I believe if I stayed in my comfort zone of what I was already learning, I wouldn't have gained such a valuable experience here. My time here has also supplemented the things I can put on my resume, which definitely opens up opportunities for career paths...and that's all because of a chain of events starting with taking on a new role that I knew very little about!

So, the next time a new opportunity arises (someone invites you to a new club meeting, a new class opens up, etc.), take advantage of it! Many things come up in a day, and it's all about how you navigate and make the most of these moments! And as always, The Career Center is here to support you. Give us a call at (516) 463-6060 to get started!

Anne Monique Concepcion,
Graduate Assistant

Connect with The Career Center: Nalani Goonetilleke

1. What is your role at the Career Center?

I am the External Relations Intern here at the Career Center. The internship consists of working with employers in coordination of different activities and events involving students, such as the Career Fairs, PRIDE Shadowing, as well as a plethora of services that the Career Center offers.

2. What did you study in school OR what was your favorite class when you were in school?

I am currently a graduate student in the Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies program here at Hofstra. I will be entering into my second semester in the program. For my undergraduate studies, I received a BA in Psychology from St. John's University.

3. Where is your favorite spot on campus?

My favorite spot on campus is the lawn in front of Adam's Playhouse. It is very serene and you can often catch students playing or lounging around in that area.

4. What is your favorite season and why?

Winter is my favorite season because I enjoy all the festivities and joy that the holidays bring. I also look forward to the fashion!

5. What message do you have for the incoming class of 2019/returning Hofstra students as they begin their new school year?

For incoming students, as well as returning students, I feel that it is important to keep in mind that pursuing your degree is not limited to going to your classes, doing your required assignments, and passing. This University offers so much to their students and it would be great to take advantage of all the activities that are presented. Engage yourself in something that you enjoy, make connection with others, and expand your learning opportunities.

Nalani Goonetilleke, External Relations Intern