Student-Athlete of the Month
The Student-Athlete of the Month program recognizes the all-around success of select Hofstra University student-athletes. The key criterion includes excellence in academics, leadership and dedication in athletics, a commitment to community service, and the extent to which they serve as a role model for their peers.
Jaclyn Pandolf, a senior lacrosse player from Holbrook, NY, and starting goalie for the Pride, is making a big impact her senior season on and off the field. In the classroom, Jaclyn is a community health major that has received the CAA Commissioner Award for the past three years. When asked about what led her to her current major, she stated that, “Originally, I was a Physical Education Major, but I decided to switch to community health because of the influence of my past teammates and my desire to ultimately become a nurse.” On the field, she has already picked up CAA Player of the Week honors and has continued to shine in goal this season.
QUESTION: Why did you choose to attend Hofstra University?
JACLYN PANDOLF: I chose to attend Hofstra University because of many talented long island lacrosse players that I grew up watching, who chose to attend and play at Hofstra. Hofstra provided both athletic and academic opportunities for me.
Q: What are your plans for after graduation?
JACLYN: I have been applying to numerous Nursing schools and I hope to get admission to the accelerated program, which would allow me to become an RN at an accelerated pace (12-15 months). I hope to ultimately become a Nurse Practitioner.
Q: What has it meant to be a member of the Hofstra Women's Lacrosse team and to play for your head coach, Abby Morgan?
JACLYN: I am very grateful that I have been given the opportunity to be a part of this special team. During the past four years, under the guidance of my coaching staff, led by Abby Morgan, I have grown tremendously on and off the field.
Q: What has been your most memorable athletic achievement?
JACLYN: My most memorable athletic achievement was the opportunity to compete in the CAA championship during my sophomore year.
Q: What does it take to be a successful student while competing as a Division I student-athlete?
JACLYN: Focus is key. Being able to prioritize your day and cut out distractions is what has made me a successful student-athlete. More importantly, I feel it is most important not be afraid to ask for help.
Q: What piece of advice do you have for incoming student-athletes?
JACLYN: My advice is to always work hard and never accept average, on the field and in the classroom. Always give 100% in everything that you do.
Q: How has community service involvement positively impacted your development as an individual?
JACLYN: I have experienced so many life-changing events during my time at Hofstra and within my community service. I know that I had made a difference in someone's day after I leave a community service activity with a smile on my face. Being able to give back to the community makes me appreciate the opportunities that I have been given and to not take it for granted.
Q: What is your definition of a leader?
JACLYN: My definition of a leader is someone who is always doing the right thing and looking out for the best interest in the group. A leader is someone who is better at listening than talking and is consistent day in and day out. This individual always puts 100% into whatever he/she does and pushes their teammates/peers to compete at the same level.
Q: What are your interests outside of your sport?
JACLYN: I spend as much time with my family as I can. I also love to coach and help other athletes become the best they can be so hopefully they can have the same opportunity as I did to play at the highest level.
Q: What has surprised you about Hofstra since arriving on campus?
JACLYN: The thing that has surprised me about Hofstra is all of the updates and renovations that I have seen since first committing to attend here. The one thing that really sticks out is the addition of the Fried Center, which is the study hall facility for student-athletes. During my freshmen year, we were stuck in a tiny computer room, which was really uncomfortable at times!
