Shelly Helfgott

Name: Shelly Helfgott
Hometown: Edison, NJ
Class Year: Senior
Majors: Elementary Education and Communication
Honors: Kappa Delta Pi (Education Honor Society), Dean’s List
Clubs, Activities and Organizations:
- Alpha Xi Delta Sorority
- Admissions Representative – Tour Guide, Telecounselor, Ambassador
- Rider University Network (RUN) – I do movie reviews on the show “What’s Shakin’”
- Hillel Society
- Student Education Association (SEA)
Why did you choose to attend Rider?
When I was applying to college, I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted. I thought I wanted to go to a state school close to home. But when I came to visit the Rider campus, I changed my mind. I just pictured myself here and I am really happy with my decision. Rider and I just fit. The University is warm and friendly, close to home but not too close. It was a place where I knew I could make the difficult adjustment from high school to college.
What do you like about Rider?
I love that at Rider you are a name – not a number. Every professor I have ever had knew my name and something special about me. They have always been accessible and there to help me succeed academically. It’s just comforting to that my teachers are always there to help me out when I need it.
And that’s the same socially as well. Rider has offered me a friendly and home-like environment where I can make a name for myself on campus and get involved. It’s not hard to find your niche here – you really are a part of a greater “Rider Family”.
What was/is your favorite course?
Writing for the Media – it gave me the freedom to write about a variety of different topics and provided me with a good view into the world of journalism.
What professor at Rider has influenced you most? Why?
It’s so difficult to choose just one professor who has influenced me most, especially since I am a double major. All of the Communications professors have always been around to help with internships and making connections in the work field, while all of the Education professors are always there to talk to on a personal level.
What are your career plan following graduation?
I plan to teach middle school math.
