Posted on September 12th, 2025

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The School of Health Sciences has launched Health Works, an innovative cooperative education program that allows undergraduate students to gain full-time, paid experience at health-focused organizations while earning academic credit. The program, piloted this fall, places six students in professional roles across clinical, community health, and administrative settings.

Health Works reflects a growing trend in higher education to integrate classroom learning with workplace experience, preparing students for advanced study and careers in an evolving healthcare landscape. Students work 35 hours a week for the 15-week semester, earning stipends of approximately $12,000 while applying their coursework in professional settings.

“The Health Works Co-op Program exemplifies Hofstra’s commitment to preparing students for meaningful, impactful careers in health care. Our students are gaining practical experience, building professional networks, and making contributions to the health of our communities even before they graduate. This initiative reflects our mission to foster student success, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement,” said School of Health Sciences Dean Reginald Alston.

For many students, the program is already proving to be a transformative experience. “What drew me to this program was the unique opportunity to gain full work experience while still being a student,” said Lia Karas ’26, an exercise physiology student from Astoria, New York, who is eager to sharpen her adaptability and communication skills as she enters a professional healthcare environment.

David Wang ’26, an exercise physiology student from Valley Stream, New York, described Health Works as a rare opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting. “The bridge between theory and practice is a hard one to cross, and being able to do that early in my academic career is an opportunity that most don’t get to have. I think this program will help not only me but also future generations of Hofstra graduates in figuring out who they are, what they want to do, and what is best for them,” he said.

Matthew Bardoo ’26, an exercise physiology student from Bay Shore, New York, emphasized the importance of balance as he joins the co-op while completing coursework toward his degree. “I’m eager to strengthen my communication skills and build confidence in a professional healthcare setting,” he said. “I’m also looking forward to seeing how each role, no matter the size, contributes to providing quality care.”

For Admar Calovini ’26, an exercise physiology student from New Hyde Park, New York, his placement at Park Slope Cardiac and Diagnostic Services offers a chance for him to contribute immediately. “My goal is to use my time at Park Slope to make an impact. I want to help their healthcare team in any way to maintain and promote a safe and efficient workplace,” he said.

Employer partners, including hospitals, clinics, and community-based organizations, welcomed students at a kickoff networking dinner this summer. Among the first to host a student is the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island (HWCLI), through its social care network known as HEALI. Program manager Samantha Klein said the partnership offers a valuable exchange of knowledge and skills.

“Our goal at HEALI is to integrate health and social care to improve health outcomes on Long Island. Becoming an employer partner for the Hofstra Health Works Co-op Program provides a tremendous opportunity to learn with the community and show the impact of social care on health outcomes,” Klein said.

She added that co-op students contribute insights from their coursework while helping build trust with community members and developing partnerships with health and social care organizations.

“We hope the student will learn the important role of community-based organizations and the services that can be offered to future patients. We look forward to collaborating with the student to apply their healthcare expertise in real-world practice,” Klein said.

The program supports the Hofstra 100 strategic plan by advancing pillars of student success and community engagement. Through Health Works, students are not only gaining the professional experience needed to excel in their future careers, but they are also contributing to the well-being of local communities.