Choice Theory and Job-seeking

William Glasser, an American psychiatrist who was known for the creation of Reality Therapy and Choice Theory, believed that all behavior is purposeful.  Whether it is to satisfy our basic needs of survival or our desire for freedom, fun, love, belonging, or power, we act for a reason.  We can control these behaviors by acting in certain ways that help people and our relationships (e.g. being supportive, encouraging, listening, accepting, or trusting) or hurt our relationships with others (e.g. criticizing, blaming, complaining, nagging, or punishing).

Our behavior is under our control; what is not under our control, are the behaviors of others.  So for example, if an employer does not respond right away or does not show you the respect of replying to your follow-up email, do not fret.  Employers are very busy people and sometimes they will take days to respond to an email or phone call.  As long as you keep your composure and relax (do not email them a million times waiting for their response), everything will work out. 

And if that employer does not respond back, it is not the end of the world.  Perhaps they found an in-house option for the position or they found a better fit with another candidate.  Do not be hard on yourself and do not lash out at the employer; your time will come.  If you burn bridges with a potential employer you ruin any chance that you can have with them in the future.

Do not be your own worst enemy.

Scott Davidson
Graduate Asst., Hofstra Career Center

Meet Our HU Students: Alison Krowiak

Alison Krowiak

Hometown: Seaford, NY

Major(s): Psychology with Minors in Business and Civic Engagement

When you were young, what did you think you wanted to be "when you grow up?"

I wanted to be an author or an interior designer when I was younger because I loved reading and watching HGTV. I continue to do those things today, however my career plans have changed.

What career do you hope your first job after graduate will be?

After graduation I would like to work in nonprofit administration, including fundraising, operations, and communications. I would especially hope to work for a nonprofit that has the same values about social justice and human development as I do.

What experience have you had so far that you think is best preparing you to reach that goal?

I feel I've come a long way professionally by working at the Hofstra Career Center for the last few years. By assisting Hofstra students and supporting Career Center operations, I have learned how to provide good service, keep tabs on multiple tasks, and pay attention to detail in an environment oriented towards helping people. I have no doubt that these abilities will be helpful in the future.

What advice would you have for others who are pursuing this same career?

Whether you are interested in the nonprofit world or any other field, look for internships, volunteer opportunities, or other practical experiences. Not only will you learn transferable skills, but you will learn things about your career interests and talents that you can't learn in the classroom.

Who at Hofstra has had the biggest positive impact on you?

Everyone at the Career Center has been like a second family at Hofstra. As a student employee, I've been able to develop my professional skills with a great team of people and form friendships along the way. Their support and advice over the years has given me more confidence to move forward with my career goals.

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: Darlene Johnson

1. What is your role at the Career Center?

As Director of External Relations, my main role is to increase the number of opportunities for students to meet employers. This includes providing job and internship postings for students, and also networking and informational events.

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

My undergraduate degree is in Psychology, but my first few jobs were not directly related to that field. I worked various jobs within the music industry. I decided to go back to my college's career center to see if a counselor could help me decide what I really wanted to do, and I ended up wanting the career counselor's job! I then went back to school and obtained a Master's degree in Career Development!

3. Where is your favorite spot on campus?

Aside from the two Starbucks locations, I would have to say that I really love my office here at the Career Center. It’s a place where my co-workers can always come for a rest on the couch or a piece of chocolate.

4. What is your favorite season and why?

Definitely, Spring. My birthday is in Spring, so maybe that's why, but I also love the weather (when we do have Spring weather) and the anticipation for Summer.

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

We are here for you! Don’t wait to meet us, come and say hello at any of our events or make an appointment so we can get to know you.

Darlene Johnson, Director of External Relations

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