Leaders on Campus Honors Community
When you join the Schreyer Honors College, you join a community of students who are committed to making the most of their undergraduate experiences. To support this commitment, we offer a range of opportunities for leadership and civic and social engagement — all in the service of developing an honors community that goes far beyond stellar academics.
Housing ResLife
A Place to Call Home Honors Housing
At the Schreyer Honors College, honors housing is far more than just a room in a residence hall. In Atherton and Simmons, the two honors housing residence halls, you'll find Scholars discussing class projects, holding meetings for student organizations, or simply socializing. Both of our residence halls hold a prime campus location, near classrooms and recreational facilities, steps away from the HUB, and just across the street from downtown State College.
Atherton Hall
Classic, elegant, and stately, Atherton is the quintessential residence hall.
- 292 rooms
- 10 suites
- 9 Study Lounges
- Grandfather Clock Lounge & Event Space
- Zombie Lounge (24-hour quiet study lounge)
- Rec Room with Ping-Pong, Pool, Air Hockey, Foosball
- Laundry Room
- TV Lounge
- 2 Soundproof Music Practice Rooms
- 24/7 Computer Lab & Collaboration Space
Simmons Hall
Atherton's more relaxed, less formal alter ego.
- 416 rooms
- 36 GLOBE suites
- 2 Study Lounges
- 2 TV Lounges
- Piano Lounge
- Small and Large Conference Rooms
- Laundry Room
- Music Practice Room
Top Tips
You must select honors housing in your first year in order to be guaranteed space for subsequent years.
About 70% of the students living in Atherton and Simmons are Schreyer Scholars.
Scholars living in honors housing may choose to room with someone who is not a Scholar.
Many of the programs sponsored by the Honors College take place in Atherton or Simmons.
Community Builders Scholar Assistants
Scholar Assistants are upperclass Scholars living in the honors residence halls who are here to foster a sense of community among our students. They can help you identify academic advising resources, answer questions about your class schedule, and, most importantly, make you aware of a wide range of benefits afforded to Scholars. They also help to organize diverse out-of-classroom activities, fun and relaxing social programs, and interactive panel discussions with faculty and Scholar alumni.
Atherton Hall
Somdatta Basu Aerospace Engineering Pittsburgh, PA
Hi! My name is Somdatta Basu, and I am so excited to serve as a Scholar Assistant! I am a second-year from Pittsburgh, PA majoring in Aerospace Engineering with a minor in French Language and Culture.
During my first year, I embraced being a part of Schreyer's leadership through my role as Dean Mather's Student Leadership Intern (which I am continuing this academic year). This past summer, I spent two months on a study abroad in Lyon, France and travelling Europe!
I love playing the piano, working in the ceramics studio, taking naps, and travelling in my free time.
I am committed to helping Schreyer to serve its students in the best ways possible. If you have any questions about academics, social events, study abroad, leadership, etc., or any concerns or suggestions, feel free to reach out at smb7678@psu.edu!
Let's have a great year!
Ma'az Zaman Mechanical Engineering Phoenixville, PA
Hello Scholars! I'm really thrilled to meet each and every one of you in the coming year! My name is Ma'az Zaman, and I am a second-year student majoring in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Computer Science.
During my first year here at Penn State, I aimed to involve myself with the religious and cultural groups on campus. I served as the Outreach Chair for the Muslim Student Association and was part of the Pakistani Student Association and Middle Eastern North African Association. In my free time, I like to read and play basketball, so you might catch me playing ball at the White Building courts.
As one of this year's Scholars Assistants, I want to be there for each of you to make the most out of your experience as a Scholar. If you have any questions about classes, clubs, or any of the Honors College's resources, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at mmz5404@psu.edu. I look forward to hearing from you all!
Simmons Hall
Wyatt Fink Engineering Science Philipsburg, PA
Greetings all, my name is Wyatt and I am ecstatic to meet each of you! I am a third-year student from nearby Philipsburg, Pennsylvania. I am studying Engineering Science, with minors in Physics and Engineering Mechanics. In my free time I enjoy learning about history and about people, these are of course supplemented with hobbies of reading and playing chess. My favorite PSU sport is Wrestling so keep an eye out at the matches.
I also spend a considerable amount of time working on research. My specific research involvements have been on additive manufacturing for which I intend to complete an IUG. If you have any questions on getting involved in research or a general interest in my work, I'd be delighted to discuss it with you!
So far as part of Schreyer, I have had the pleasure of serving as a SHO TIME mentor and Vice President of the GLOBE Living-Learning Community.
I am determined to make the most of the Schreyer Honors College for everyone and meet as many of you as a I can. I feel confident that I can offer guidance or produce someone else who can. I hope that you reach out to me at fink@psu.edu to ask questions and offer suggestions!
Rositsa Tsarnakova Biochemistry and Molecular Biology State College, PA
Hello fellow Scholars! My name is Rositsa Tsarnakova and I am eager for the opportunity to get to know and help as many of you that I can. Currently, I am studying Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with the intention of going into medical school and conducting research as well. If I am not in class or at the library, my free time is spent in the lab conducting research on purine metabolism in the model organism C. elegans.
When I am not in class or at the lab, Science Lion Pride and Alpha Epsilon Delta (Penn State's chapter of this national pre-health honor society) usually take up most of my time through meetings or recruitment events. Outside of Penn State, I try to spend time as much time as I can with my family and friends, bake, read, and stay outdoors.
As a second-year Scholar, I really enjoyed the orientation and settling in experience, so I hope to provide you all with the same knowledge and insight that led me to be where I am! I look forward to making your time within Schreyer enjoyable and fulfilling! As always, feel free to reach if you have any questions at rft5251@psu.edu.
Sharing Their Experiences Scholar Ambassadors
A team of Scholars who serve as ambassadors for the Honors College, Scholar Ambassadors represent the College at special events for alumni and donors, provide tours of campus and honors housing, develop and lead philanthropic campaigns, meet with visiting families, and share their experiences as Schreyer Scholars.
View Scholar AmbassadorsExecutive Team
Elizabeth Knapp Executive Director Biology (BS) egk5135@psu.edu
Hello! I am a third-year student majoring in biology. In addition to being involved in the Schreyer Honors College as a Scholar Ambassador, I am a member of the Schreyer for Women organization, and an active member of ServeState, participating in service events in the State College community. Having a passion for biology and more specifically the forensic sector of the science, I am involved in the Forensics Club and have had the opportunity to conduct research under the supervision of Dr. Reena Roy. The research topic focuses on determining STR profiles using leeches. In my free time, I enjoy reading, exercising, meditating, traveling, and taking leisurely strolls around our beautiful campus.
Kira Smith Assistant Director Psychology (BA) kxs5250@psu.edu
I am a third-year scholar majoring in Psychology and Criminology with a minor in German. I grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania. Here on campus, I am involved with Penn State Mock Trial, German Club, and I am a research assistant in Dr. Newman's Depression and Anxiety Lab. In my free time, I enjoy painting and getting coffee with my friends. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! I would be delighted to share my experiences with you!
Michael Carroll Recruitment Director Business Admin (PMAJ) mmc6678@psu.edu
Hi! I’m a first-year scholar from Yardley, PA planning to major in Finance. I’m an analyst on The Lion 90.7 FM as a part of the Sports Blitz show. I’m also a participant in the Smeal Ethical Leadership Challenge and a member of the Schreyer Consulting Group. When I’m not busy with classes, I like to play drums, watch Phillies baseball, or enjoy a good Netflix show. Feel free to reach out with any questions!
Andrew Eisel Engagement Director Finance (BS) Economics (BS) aje5531@psu.edu
My name is Andrew Eisel, and I am third-year Finance and Economics Major from Altoona, PA. Outside of being a Scholar Ambassador, I am a brother of the Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity, a grading assistant in the Economics Department, and a member of the Penn State Bowling Club. I was also previously involved in Wall Street Bootcamp and the Penn State Investment Association. This summer, I will be working as a Summer Analyst at Goldman Sachs in Philadelphia in their Asset and Wealth Management Division. In my free time, I enjoy working out, watching Penn State athletics, and spending time with my family. WE ARE!
Emily Sanchez Communications Director Biomedical Engneerng (BS) efs5549@psu.edu
Hello! My name is Emily, and I am a third-year from Bergen County, New Jersey, majoring in Biomedical Engineering. I am on the pre-medical track, but I am also interested in pharmaceutical manufacturing and will continue to explore this field through my Summer 2023 internship at Merck. Outside of being a Scholar Ambassador, I am involved in undergraduate research, the Biomedical Engineering Society, and I also serve as an undergraduate representative on the College of Engineering Academic Integrity Committee. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, going to the gym, and traveling. Please feel free free to reach out if you have any questions or want to learn more about my Schreyer experience!
Claire Tse Special Events Director Biochem & Molec Biol (BS) cut92@psu.edu
Hello! I am a second-year Scholar majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and minoring in Microbiology. At Penn State, I am involved in Remote Area Medical, which is a club that organizes clinic trips to provide free medical care to underserved areas in America. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, painting, and hanging out with friends. If you have any questions about my Schreyer experience, feel free to reach out to me by email!
Ambassadors
Lauren Colvin Advt/Publ Relations (BA) luc557@psu.edu
Hi everyone! I’m a second-year scholar from Erie, PA, majoring in Public Relations with a minor in Sociology and the SMEAL Business Certificate. On campus, I’m involved in recruitment for both Schreyer and the College of Communications, I am the current administrator for Schreyer for Women and am part of Campus Band. In my free time I love to spend time with my friends and family, see a play or musical, and listen to podcast's while my dog and I take our evening walk. If you have any questions or just want to talk, please reach out! I’d love to hear from you.
Viviana Davila Nutritional Sciences (MPS) Nutritional Sciences (BS) Psychology (BS) vid5085@psu.edu
Hello everyone! I am part of the Class of 2023, and I am double majoring in Nutrition & Dietetics and Psychology (Neuroscience option) with a minor in Spanish. I became a Scholar Ambassador during my Sophomore year, and I have absolutely loved it! Other clubs I am part of are the Health and Human Development (HHD) Ambassadors, the Student Nutrition Association, and the Yoga Club. I currently work at the Children’s Eating Behavior Laboratory where we study how eating behaviors develop in children, and how it can lead to obesity later on in life. My hobbies outside of school are weightlifting, hiking, drinking coffee, watching movies, traveling, and listening to music. Please feel free to ask any questions regarding the Schreyer Honors College and life at Penn State!
Emma Enos Geobiology (BS) eke5213@psu.edu
Hello! I am a second-year transfer student majoring in geobiology (with minors in astrobiology and microbiology). Here at Penn State, I’m involved in the Nittany Grotto Caving Club, Earth and Mineral Sciences Student Council, and the Association for Women Geoscientists. I’m also involved with undergraduate research, with my current research projects focusing on phosphate during the Paleoproterozoic and vermiculations. In my free time, I enjoy caving, geocaching, and watching horror movies. Feel free to reach out with any questions!
Purva Gupta Biomedical Engneerng (BS) pfg5160@psu.edu
Hello! I'm a first-year Scholar majoring in Biomedical and Mechanical Engineering. I work in an Ultrasound research laboratory studying photoacoustic imaging and am on the Advocacy Team for Days for Girls, a menstrual equity club. Outside of being a Scholar Ambassador, I volunteer as an EMT, enjoy handicrafts like origami and embroidering, love tinkering and designing websites, and reading about activism (specifically about empowering females in STEM and for diversity).
Yani Hawthorne Biobehavioral Health (BS) ymh5228@psu.edu
Hi everyone! I am a third-year student majoring in Biobehavioral Health. I hope to become a Physician Assistant in the future! Along with being in the Schreyer Honors College and a Schreyer Ambassador I am apart of other extra curriculars at Penn State: AED Honors Society, UGTI for BBH 452, and former Chapter President of Gamma Phi Beta. In my free time I enjoy reading, going for runs, and hanging out with friends and family. Feel free to reach out and ask me any questions at ymh5228@psu.edu
Carlton Jarmon Accounting (MACC) Accounting (BS) Spanish (BA) ckj5140@psu.edu
Hello, my name is Carlton Jarmon. I am from Hershey, Pa and I am currently a senior in my 2nd year of the Integrated Macc Program at the Smeal College of Business. The MAcc Program allows me to study for a Bachelor’s in Accounting, Master’s in Accounting, and CPA eligibility through a 5-year curriculum. I have a life goal to use my skills in business to bring more wealth to areas that have consistently encountered barriers to raising the income levels of their residents. In fact, ever since the days when I was young, I have always loved the concept of business and commerce whether it was games of Monopoly or selling toys in class. Aside from business though, I have an affinity for the human experience. In seeking to learn more about both my place as well as the place of others in our shared society, I have studied abroad over 5 times through Penn State in countries like Tanzania, South Korea, and Spain. I like to say that because of this I can now speak the languages of English, Spanish, Beginner Mandarin, and most importantly, the principles of GAAP accounting. I am always open to conversation so feel free to reach out to me anytime!
Andrew Kacala Biology (BS) ajk6410@psu.edu
My name is Andrew Kacala and I am a third-year student studying biology with the neuroscience option. After graduation I plan to attend medical school and peruse a career as a physician. I currently work in a neurobiology research lab that investigates how neuropeptides alter neuronal signaling in the case of alcohol misuse. Outside of academics I serve as the Secretary for Ethics in Science and Medicine (ESM), Schreyer orientation mentor, member of Remote Area Medical, and owner of my sweatshirt business. I always enjoy playing sports, lifting, and hanging out with friends. I am happy to answer any questions about Schreyer and Penn State, please feel free to send me an email anytime!
Jacqueline Kiszka Meteo & Atmosph Scnce (BS) jmk7074@psu.edu
Hi there! I’m a third-year student from York, PA majoring in Atmospheric Science and minoring in Marine Sciences. In addition to being a Scholar Ambassador, I am involved in the Pride of the Lions Pep Band, SHO TIME, Chi Epsilon Pi Meteorological Honor Society, and the Student Council & THON Organizations in the College of Earth & Mineral Sciences. Additionally, I am involved in undergraduate research studying air-sea interactions and biogeochemistry in the Chesapeake Bay. This Spring, I plan to study abroad at the University of Southampton in England to participate in an exchange program for my minor. In my free time, I enjoy reading, listening to music, being outdoors, and attending Penn State sporting events. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions that you might have--I'm happy to help!
Julia Li Landscape Arch (MS) Landscape Arch (BLA) jsl5612@psu.edu
Hi! I am a second-year student majoring in Landscape Architecture and minoring in Meteorology. In my professional career, I hope to create climate-resilient landscape designs that are strongly informed by meteorological data. In addition to being a Scholar Ambassador, I am the Editor for the Penn State chapter of Circle K International, a service organization. As well, I am an EcoReps student sustainability ambassador. Growing up, I swam competitively, so naturally Club Swim was the first club I joined here, and I love my team. In my free time, I enjoy relaxing with my friends, hiking, drinking smoothies, singing off-key, and bullet journaling. Please don’t hesitate to email me with any questions!
Evan Mancini Biology (BS) etm5204@psu.edu
Hi!!! I am a second-year student from Lansdale, PA majoring in Biology, with a neuroscience focus. Along with my commitment to being a Scholar Ambassador, I am also an On-Site Coordinator for the Student Red Cross Club, a member of the AED Medical Honors Society Diversity in Healthcare Task Force, and the goalie for the Penn State’s Men’s Club Water Polo Team. I am currently working in a neuroscience research lab, where we are investigating the electrophysiology of potassium ion channels in neuron cells. In my free time, I love to kayak, golf, workout, listen to music, and spend time with my friends and family!
Katherine Marakovits Industrial Engr (BS) kmm7872@psu.edu
Hi everyone! I am a first-year student majoring in Industrial Engineering and pursuing a minor in Economics. Along with my involvement as a Schreyer Scholar Ambassador, I am also an Impact Scholar for the College of Engineering and a member of No Refund Theatre (NRT) and the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). In my free time, I love reading, traveling, hiking, and trying new flavors at the Penn State Creamery. This summer, I plan to study abroad in Europe and serve as a Supply Chain Intern for Clark Associates. I love meeting new people and sharing my Schreyer experience, so feel free to reach out and connect with any questions!
Maryn McConkey Environmntl Sys Engr (BS) mrm6631@psu.edu
Hi everyone! My name is Maryn and I am a third year studying Environmental Engineering with a minor in Spanish. I am from Boston, Massachussetts but I love the Big 10 college experience that Penn State provides. Here on campus I am the Director of Community Engagement for Schreyer for Women, and you can usually find me studying in the Social Sciences library at Paterno or hanging on HUB lawn whenever it's sunny! Feel free to reach out with any questions, I'm always scrolling through my email :)
Isabella Munoz Biochem & Molec Biol (BS) ijm5227@psu.edu
Hi! I am a fourth-year scholar majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and minoring in Microbiology. I am from Allentown, PA. In addition to being a Scholar Ambassador, I am the President of Biochemistry Society and the VP of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Alpha Phi. I am heavily involved in THON while serving as a THON committee chair and an undergraduate researcher in the McReynolds Lab. In my free time, I love picking up a new book to read, attending Penn State sporting events, and traveling with my family or friends! Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions!
Ava Nociforo Div of Ug Studies (PMAJ) agn5131@psu.edu
Hello everyone! I am a second-year Schreyer Scholar and Paterno Fellow from Horsham, PA double majoring in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Communication Arts and Sciences. On campus, I am involved in Mock Trial and THON as a 2024 Merchandise Captain. In my free time, I love to sing, watch Broadway shows, hang out with friends, watch sports, drink coffee, read, and play video games. After Penn State, I want to attend law school and pursue a career as an attorney. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions! I am always willing to lend a helping hand!
George Papoutsis Liberal Arts (PMAJ) gjp5380@psu.edu
Hi! I am a first-year student from Mechanicsburg, PA studying Economics. In addition to being a Scholar Ambassador, I am involved in the Rules and Regulations Committee for THON, Schreyer Student Council, and the Hellenic Student Association. In my free time, I love playing and watching all sports and spending time with friends and family. Feel free to contact me with any questions!
Rishika Patil Biochem & Molec Biol (BS) rrp5322@psu.edu
Hello! I am a second-year Scholar majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with a minor in Microbiology. In addition to being a Scholar Ambassador, I have also been a SHO TIME mentor. At Penn State, I am involved in research through the Hanna-Rose Lab where I study purine metabolic perturbations and the neurobehavioral and muscular diseases that they cause. In my free time, I enjoy rock climbing, swimming, and spending time with my friends. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me!
Hannah Peacock Biological Engr (BS) hbp5146@psu.edu
“Hi! I am a second-year Scholar majoring in Biological Engineering with a focus on natural resource engineering. My hometown is Memphis, Tennessee, but my family currently lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In addition to being involved with Scholar Ambassadors, I am an intern at the Student Farm at Penn State, a member of the Student Farm Club executive board, and the Director of Food Justice for the University Park Undergraduate Association’s Department of Sustainability. Additionally, I am work as an undergraduate researcher in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering’s BioEco Lab. In my free time, I love spending time outdoors, weaving, and baking. Please do not hesitate to contact me – I would love to hear from you if you have any questions or just want to get to know each other!”
Angelica Pirog Chemical Engineering (BS) afp5589@psu.edu
Hello! My name is Angelica, and I am a third-year Scholar majoring in Chemical Engineering. I am from Easton, Pennsylvania. On campus, I am involved with Tau Beta Pi, American Society for Chemical Engineers, THON, and research. Outside of class, I enjoy going on hikes, watching movies, painting, and hanging out with friends and family. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
Mikaili Puckerine Biology (BS) mxp5768@psu.edu
Hi, everyone! My name is Mikaili Puckerine, and I am a third-year student majoring in Biology (Neuroscience Option) and minoring in Psychology. I am from Boston, Massachusetts. Outside of being a Scholar Ambassador, I am a member of the AED Medical Honors Society Diversity in Healthcare Task Force and an intern for diversity, equity and inclusion within the Honors College. I also work in a neurobiology lab studying plant ion channels and stomata regulation. I enjoy working out, scuba diving, and listening to music in my free time. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.
Radhika Rajesh Nair Comp Sci - Univ Park (BS) rjr5985@psu.edu
Hi! My name is Radhika Nair, and I am a second year Schreyer Scholar majoring in Computer Science with an intended minor in Mathematics. I am super excited to be a Scholar Ambassador!! Outside of Scholar Ambassadors I am involved in AWC (Association of Women in Computing) where I serve as a technology chair and Fanaa - Penn State’s only South Asian A Capella team. Outside of classes and clubs I enjoy singing Indian classical music and playing violin, playing guitar, listening to Taylor Swift, and hanging out with friends. Feel free to reach out to me at rjr5985@psu.edu, I would love to talk!
Arantza Ruiz Aguirre Biomedical Engneerng (BS) azr5799@psu.edu
Hi everyone! I am a third-year Scholar studying Biomedical Engineering and pursuing a minor in French and Francophone Studies. I am from Mexico City and my current hometown is Fort Collins, CO. On campus, I am involved with the Penn State Biomedical Engineering Society, for which I am the Secretary and my role is to maintain effective communication for the organization. I am also an active member of Phi Sigma Rho sorority, THON, and the Women in Engineering Program (WEP). In my free time I like to read, watch good movies, crochet, bake, and spend time with family and friends. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
Kristian Tegge Vet & Biomedical Sc (BS) kat5769@psu.edu
Hi, I am a first-year student from Bergen County, New Jersey majoring in Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences. I am a member of the Pre-vet club. My career goal is to go onto vet school and become a veterinarian. I volunteer to teach civics for the BSA Northern New Jersey Council. I love the outdoors, animals and rhetoric so don’t hesitate to reach out if you want to talk.
Mabel Tong Biology (BS) mst5405@psu.edu
Hi everyone! My name is Mabel and I am a second year Biology student pursuing a Health Policy and Administration minor and Smeal Business Certificate. In addition to being a Scholar Ambassador, I am a member of the Schreyer Medical Team. I’m also involved in neurobiology research as part of the Mao lab where we study Alzheimer’s disease. Outside of school, I enjoy graphic design and watching movies. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions!
