Major: I’m a double major in International Studies and English with minors in French and Technical Writing. I’ve loved all of my courses at Penn State. To me, they weren’t requirements; they were things I couldn’t wait to study, like American poetry. My professors have made me the writer I am: they’ve challenged me and inspired me to pursue my passion.
Career Ambition: I’m planning to work in marketing/communications. Whatever I do, I know it will involve writing.
Why I Came to Penn State: I’m from the Boston area. Penn State was recommended to me by my high school guidance counselor because she knew that I’m someone who likes to get involved. Then when I went on a tour of campus and heard the Penn State cheer, I was sold. With such a large university, you need to have a sense of family, and school spirit gives you that.
What I Love About Penn State: My guidance counselor was right. There are so many opportunities at Penn State—internships, clubs, study abroad, community service projects, sports. I’m a very busy person, but I love it. In addition to studying and working, I serve as the vice-president and goalkeeper for club field hockey, a special events captain for THON, a member of the Student Philanthropy Council, and a reader for the student literary magazine Kalliope. I also studied abroad in France this past spring, taking intensive language courses and classes on French culture. It was a fantastic experience.
On the Importance of Philanthropy: Gifts from donors have had a big impact on my life: I’ve gotten four scholarships from the University, two of which were created by individuals. Since I’m someone who pays out-of-state tuition, the awards have been a huge relief.
In my role as a member of the Student Philanthropy Council, I try to get my fellow seniors to start a personal tradition of giving back by contributing to the Senior Class Gift. One of my favorite meeting places on campus is the HUB aquarium, a gift from the class of 1999! I tell them that every gift counts—it all adds up. Personally, I’m inspired by the small gifts from people who give what they can, and by unrestricted gifts from alumni that give colleges and campuses new resources.
