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
Schreyer Honors College housing is more than a residence hall. It's a community of Scholars who you will get to know in classes, study groups, and our many events and programs, which are held right in the halls. Our residence halls are a vibrant and fun place to live — part of the South Halls Residence Area and adjacent to the Pollock Halls Residence Area, the second largest first-year living environment.
Location & Dining
Atherton and Simmons are conveniently located on campus and near downtown State College. The residence halls are steps away from multiple on-campus and downtown dining options. They are also a short walk to fist-year classroom buildings, such as Thomas, Willard, and Sackett and close to campus amenities, such as the HUB-Robeson Center, the Penn State Libraries, and the White Building (Gym and Pool)
Community
Living in Atherton and Simmons means you are part of a lively community of Scholars and non-Scholars. Here are just a few things that make our community unique.
- Living with other Scholars makes meeting for homework or study groups convenient.
- Schreyer-sponsored events and Schreyer student organization events take place in the halls, so attending is easy.
- Because the halls are located close to classrooms, they never feel empty. You'll find students studying or socializing throughout the day in both buildings.
- In addition to having a Resident Assistant (RA), Scholars in Atherton and Simmons also have designated Scholar Assistants, who provide support, answer Schreyer-specific and general questions, host community-building events, and more.
Atherton Hall
Lively, welcoming, comfortable.
- 292 rooms
- 10 suites
- 9 Study Lounges
- Zombie Lounge (24-hour quiet study lounge)
- Event Space
- Renovated Community Space & Meeting Rooms
- Laundry
- Full Kitchen
- 2 Soundproof Music Practice Rooms & Piano
- Single User (Pod) Bathrooms
Simmons Hall
Relaxed, inviting, spacious.
- 416 rooms
- 36 GLOBE suites
- Multiple Study Lounges
- Collaboration Spaces
- Rec/Game Room
- 2 TV Lounges
- Laundry
- Full Kitchen
- Music Practice Room & Piano Lounge
- Break Access Housing
- Indoor Bike Storage
- Footwashing
Top Tips
You must select honors housing in your first year in order to be guaranteed space for subsequent years.
About 85% of first-year Scholars live in Atherton or Simmons.
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 third year from Pittsburgh, PA majoring in Aerospace Engineering with minors in French Language and Culture and Engineering Leadership Development.
During my two years, I embraced being a part of Schreyer's leadership through my role as Dean Mather's Student Leadership Intern. During the school year (and in the summer), I am involved with the Engineering Ambassadors, serve on the Women in Engineering Program Leadership Team, and do research at the Applied Research Laboratory.
Fun fact: I spent two months on a study abroad in Lyon, France and travelling throughout Europe!
I love playing the piano, taking naps, taking workout classes at our Intramural gym building, enjoying the restaurants downtown, and studying with my friends!
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 and build a flourishing community together!
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 third-year student majoring in Mechanical Engineering.
In my two years here at Penn State, I aimed to involve myself with the religious groups on campus and to further my knowledge of engineering. I have been active in the Muslim Student Association where I tried to connect with the State College Muslim community. I also am currently conducting research into metal additive manufacturing to better understand the mechanical properties of 3D printed parts. In my free time, I love reading and playing basketball, so you might catch me playing ball at the IM or 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
Paige Rishel Public Relations & History Philipsburg, PA
My name is Paige Rishel, and I can't wait to meet you all! I am a rising sophomore from nearby Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, double majoring in Public Relations and History, with minors in Digital Media Trends and Analytics and Deaf and Hearing Studies.
I am currently a Strategic Communications Intern with the Schreyer Honors College and a Marketing Intern with the Penn State School of Theatre. I recently completed a Media Relations internship with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
In addition to my internships, I run my own photography business. I am also heavily involved in student organizations, serving as the PR and Professional Development Chair of Phi Sigma Pi Honors Fraternity, Schreyer for Women, Schreyer Student Council, and the Penn State United Nations Organization (UNA-USA). To relax, I often watch documentaries with friends, go to Zumba workout classes, attend theatre performances, and listen to Beyoncé.
As a second-year student, I have plenty of advice on how to tackle your first year. You will probably see me often, usually with a camera in hand! You can find me in the computer lab developing photos, studying in the zombie lounge, or the Simmons lounge. I look forward to meeting you all, and I encourage you to reach out via email at par5574@psu.edu.
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 third-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
Kira Smith Assistant Director Psychology (BA) Criminology (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 Finance (BS) Accounting (BS) 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!
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!
Ambassadors
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).
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) Meteo & Atmosph Scnce (BS) 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!
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!
Ava Nociforo Comm Arts & Sciences (BA) Advt/Publ Relations (BA) 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 Economics (BA) English (BA) 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!
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!
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!
