<p>Can any current students give us some insight as to the general vibe at Hofstra? We have heard many different things. Have heard some people say its a big commuter school. Is that accurate? Are the majority of students from Long Island/New York or is it a mix. Would a jewish girl from the south feel comfortable there? </p>
<p>It’s a mix of Long Island kids and everywhere else. Lots of international students are represented too. I think a Jewish girl from the south would fit right in. </p>
<p>@liNYandnePA how does financial aid work? Can i get aid even though i got a merit based scholarship?</p>
<p>Sure … Fill out fafsa and if you qualify for need based aid you will be notified when the colleges send you the final financial packages. </p>
<p>A lot of students commute to Hofstra (47% of undergrads live off campus) and I would guess that a lot of the students who commute are Jewish. I would ask Hillel directly about the number of Jewish students in the dorms. If 18% of the undergraduate student body is Jewish, I would guess that the percentage of Jewish students living on campus is a lower number than 18%.</p>
<p>Although it may not be relevant, I thought I’d mention that the music director at Hofstra directed one of my honor band ensembles recently. I don’t know much about the school environment, but that man was phenomenal if you are considering music. He was generally confident and intelligent, but his attitude made him stand out. He focused on the importance of making and enjoying music rather than having a perfect performance, yet he still inspired me to work harder than I had in any other honor ensemble.</p>
<p>Maybe not relevant, but if he is anything representative of Music at Hofstra, he gave me a calm and productive feeling. </p>
I am very familiar with Greek Life at Hofstra. I think the commuter school reputation is largely outdated. The women of the sorority I know best are from MA, CA, Texas, NY, NH, NJ-- everywhere – and are represent all faiths. No worries at all for your daughter.