What’s next for spring graduates?

Jacob Pitts
Staff Writer

As much of our student population is gearing up for the next chapter of their lives, the soon-to-be graduates are reflecting on their time at Hudson Valley, preparing for the big day, and trying to figure out what comes next.

Maddy Novak

Individual studies major Maddy Novak said she is still undecided about what she wants to do post-graduation, but she cites Hudson Valley for providing her a much-needed wake-up call.

“The beginning was pretty rough, I’m not going to lie,” she said. “It was hard adjusting to college after high school.” Novak said once she decided to focus and work hard for her education, she went to see an academic adviser for help.

“That really helped get my life on track. It was a reality check, but I realized if I want to be something in life I have to work really hard at it,” said Novak.

Novak said she isn’t sure yet, but she’s considering transferring to Sage in the fall and studying either art or education.

“Even though I don’t know what I’m doing yet, I’m motivated to find out what that actually is so I can be happy and have a successful career,” Novak said, adding that the one thing she won’t miss is the parking situation.

Elgin Scalzi

Liberal arts student Elgin Scalzi wants to major in biology at Siena, but is also considering UAlbany as a second choice. “Siena’s biology program is phenomenal, as well as the small class size. UAlbany will be fine, even though the class size will be larger.”

Scalzi said he’s hoping to eventually obtain at least a master’s degree and even maintains the thought of going for a doctorate. He said he’s interested in pursuing work in cancer research or genetics.

“Out of everything at Hudson Valley, I love the socializing and friends I was able to make, and I’m definitely going to miss that the most,” he said. “The thing that will be the hardest about transferring is that I’ll need to do more studying to focus on the career aspect and less on my social life.”