Erica Hoffman:  

ermany in 7th grade. A steady in California, and several boyfriends in Rome. I've forgotten most of the names, but still have fond memories or most relationships. A "near miss" with an older boy when I was in 7th grade, who wanted more than I was willing or able to give at that time, but didn't press the case, left me scared of relationships, but also made me very aware of the possible consequenses and dangers of a sexual relationship. Good years all in all. Saw a great deal, learned more, still learning and traveling when time and money allow. College I entered college directly from High School. I had a love of horses and hoped to work with horses, which brought me to a college with an Equine program. The fact that it was only 2.5 hours from my parent's new home was a bonus. Far enough away, but not too far. The fact that is was one of the two colleges I applied to and the only one that accepted me made it ideal. The program was geared for horse lovers like me who had little practical experience, but would be capable of running a barn and riding any horse in the barn by the end of hte four year program. Being an A-B high school student who needed little study to maintain the grade, I had to learn to study at college. Grades at the end of the first marking period were an eye opener in the C range. My first roommate, assigned by the college decided to commute, leaving me to find a replacement. Three different rooms and three roommates in my first year. I was a financial aid student, getting college loans and scholarships and being in the work-study program, which assigned me to the dining hall. My boss in the dining hall soon had me doing paperwork as well as working on the line and in the kitchen. He sensed a mathematical skill and suggested I look seriously at a minor in business or accounting to supplement the Equine degree. I planned a dual major, found a long-term roommate who lasted the remaining three years. I spent portion of my sophomre and junor years on crutches due to knee problems, then knee surgery, that kept me out of my riding class for a year and a half. I served as Sophomre class president, was a member of the Intercollegiate riding team for two years, and was accepted into the honor society. I had hoped to be involved behind the scenes with the theatre department, doing set work, but classes and work schedules didn't allow for it. Selecting a small, all girls college helped me find a place to grow in knowledge and self-confidence. I found a small circle of friends, including a professor who was a form of surrogate father and mentor, who accepted me as I was and helped me grow. I'm still involved on and off campus as a member of the President's Circle. A group of selected alumni who assist with outreach and provide feedback on the college's master plan to the college administration. We also are active in developing alumni chapters, recruiting, and fund raising on behalf of the college. Back in college 2010-2012, having been laid off in a major downsizing. Getting an AA in Computer Support - DBA focus from Harrisburg Area Community College, maintining a 4.0 average in the first two semesters.