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 criteria 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.

Hofstra University sophomore outside hitter Kelsie Wills' amazing start to her second season in Hempstead is beginning to draw national attention as Collegiate Volleyball Update (CVU.com) recognized the Matamata, New Zealand, native with its national player of the week award in September. In her first season with the Pride Kelsie earned a CAA All-Rookie Team selection and was named CAA Rookie of the Week twice. Kelsie is taking full advantage of the opportunities provided to her by performing well not only on the court, but also in the classroom and in the community.

Interview Questions:

QUESTION: Why did you choose to attend Hofstra University?

KELSIE WILLS: When I looked at my different options, Hofstra was able to win me over with the location of campus, the people I would be competing with and the quality of the business program.

Q:  What has it meant to be a member of the Hofstra volleyball team and to play for your head coach, Kristina Hernandez?

WILLS: She has been able to provide me with a family away from home, and given me a structured lifestyle.

Q: What has been your most memorable athletic achievement?

WILLS: My most memorable athletic achievement would have to be from this season, receiving the 'National Player of the Week' award. To be chosen from the selection of incredible volleyball players is amazing.

Q:  How did you make your decision on what major to choose?

WILLS: I took accounting classes throughout high school and really enjoyed it, so when deciding on which college to attend my research showed that Hofstra has a highly-regarded business school.

Q:  What does it take to be a successful student while competing as a Division I student-athlete? What piece of advice do you have for incoming student-athletes?

WILLS: To be a successful student-athlete you will need to have great time management skills, and being able to prioritize commitments is definitely the key. My advice for incoming student-athletes would be: prepare to work extremely hard in and out of the classroom, set goals for what you/your team want to achieve and set out to accomplish it, as your primary focus is to graduate and win championships.

Q: How has community service involvement positively impacted your development as an individual?

WILLS: Community service events have helped me realize how lucky I am to be a student-athlete at Hofstra University, and that giving back is an important part of life.

Q:  What kinds of aspirations do you have for playing at the next level, it any?

WILLS: In the future I definitely want to continue my athletic career, possibly professionally through either indoor, or beach volleyball.

Q:  What is your definition of a leader?

WILLS: To me, a leader is an individual who influences, takes charge and takes on the responsibility of a group in order to achieve a goal.

Q: What has surprised you about Hofstra since arriving on campus?

WILLS: The diverse international student population.