Networking & Career Exploration Connect Networking & Career Day Sponsored by the David S. Rocchino Family Foundation in partnership with the Scholar Alumni Society
Connect Networking & Career Day brings more than 50 Scholar alumni to campus for a day of career-related panel discussions and networking. With expertise in a variety of fields, Scholar alumni are ready to share their knowledge and perspectives with current Scholars. Whether you are exploring majors, considering internships, preparing for graduate or professional school, or sending out resumes for employment, this event is for you.
Connect 2026
- 11:00 - 3:30 PM
- Business Building, University Park
Event Schedule
Overview
11:00 AM Registration & Professional Headshots
11:30 AM Welcome Message
12:00 - 3:30 PM Connect Panels
12:00 - 12:40 PM Session 1 Panels
Creative Careers: Using Art and Design as a Career Foundation Room 215
This panel is intended to introduce and further share information with Scholars who are interested in artistic and design-oriented careers. Alumni are encouraged to share stories of how their artistic and creative endeavors comprise their careers.
Alumni Panelists
Rachel Dungan Robert Anderson Kymberly Drapcho Alexandra Jenkins Matthew Johnson Jeff SundheimFinancial Literacy Focused on Life After Graduation Room 104
This panel is focused on how to manage money and approach the range of decisions that come with moving from college into employment. Alumni are invited to offer advice and insight into topics such managing student loans, making significant purchases, navigating benefits options, and developing a budget.
Alumni Panelists
Nathan Woodman Ilya Ekshtut Eric Reale Galen ReederGlobal Experiences (presented by The Globe Living Learning Community) Room 002 and Room 008
The focus of this panel will be on how experiences studying and working abroad have shaped one's career, increased skills in communication, organization, and problem-solving, as well as enhanced appreciation for diversity. Students with questions about how to incorporate global interests into their education and career should prioritize this panel.
Alumni Panelists, Room 002
Rose Sharp Eric Conaway Sean Griffin Chris KoeppenAlumni Panelists, Room 008
Hilary Wisniewski Jess Strait Amanda Wetzel Tom WilsonLeading People: Leading in Campus Student Organizations and in the Workplace (presented by Schreyer Student Council) Room 005 and Room 108
The focus of this panel is on developing and applying a personal leadership style, and how that style has roots in campus leadership experiences and then extends and grows throughout one's career. Alumni are invited to share examples and stories of how leadership is learned, experienced, and practiced at various career stages.
Alumni Panelists, Room 005
Chris Wilson Ed Marx Nicole Miao Ryan Setzenfand Alysha UlrichAlumni Panelists, Room 108
Maddie Fisher Timothy Berkebile Bill Donato Ashish Kapoor Eleni KornblattLegal Eagles: Navigating Exciting Paths in Law Room 010 and Room 107
This panel is focused on alumni sharing career pathways related to law, with particular emphasis on how those pathways relate to the Schreyer Scholar experience. Tips for preparing for law school, applying to law school, and selecting a specialty field of law are a focus of this panel, as well as how careers in law unfold over time and through experience.
Alumni Panelists, Room 010
Charles Burrows Karah Hughes Logan WincottAlumni Panelists, Room 107
Jack Yoskowitz Tim Chen Muna Heaven Kendall KutzavitchMath, Finance, and Quantitative Career Options Room 102
The focus of this panel is on how current scholars can prepare for careers in finance, quantitative finance, and other career areas that involve math, statistics, and financial work. Many Scholars see finance as a way to apply strengths in math and quantitative areas, while also conducting research and exercising leadership and communication strengths. Alumni are invited to share their perspectives on how one can stand out when pursuing internship and full-time opportunities in quantitative and financial areas.
Alumni Panelists
Rachel-Paige Mumenthaler Barbara Doyle Jeffrey LungerMedical School Success Room 217
This panel is focused on strategies that current Schreyer Scholars can use to prepare to thrive and succeed in medical school. Alumni are encouraged to share their strategies for preparing for medical school applications, building a strong foundation during year one of medical school, and tips for balancing academics and life while in medical school, and using medical school to launch a health care career.
Alumni Panelists
Alice Lin Alexandre Bourcier Rida HamidNetworking Skills and Strategies: From Identifying Networking Contacts and Making the Initial Outreach to Building a Successful Human Connection Room 009 and Room 106
The focus of this panel is to help current scholars to think about their personal and professional networks and identify strategies and skills to utilize networking to gain career information, to open professional relationships, and to leverage networking to earn interviews and employment opportunities. In this “apply online and wait” era, this panel is a call to build relationships as a foundation for career access and career success.
Alumni Panelists, Room 009
Apoorva Mathur Essa Bangura Allison Savio Stacy SchwartzAlumni Panelists, Room 106
Sarah Shaffer Alexis Collins Hunter Porcano Katelyn SullivanResearch Careers: Applying Curiosity and Learning to Buidling New STEM and Humanities Knowledge Room 003
The focus of this panel is on research-based career fields. Alumni are encouraged to share how they are pushing the frontier of new knowledge development across STEM and Humanities fields while offering tips and strategies to current Scholars regarding how to seek and prepare for success in a career that has research and learning at its core.
Alumni Panelists
Sam Bonsall Vandana Agarwala Alejandro Cuevas Molly Johnson Catherine Kuhns Lisa RuchScience & Engineering Innovations: Solving Today's Problems and Creating Tomorrow's Future Room 103
With an emphasis on creativity and problem-solving, this panel is focused on alumni sharing stories of science and engineering experiences. Alumni are invited to share advice and perspective on how Scholars can prepare to exert creativity and problem-solving through the application of science and engineering. What do creativity and problem solving in STEM fields look like in entry level roles compared to more experienced and leadership roles?
Alumni Panelists
Sydney Hannah Andrew Gutberlet Wyatt Funk Gabe Hiestand Nathan Jacobs Michael O'Connor1:00 - 1:40 PM Session 2 Panels
Biomedical Careers: Applying Technology to Improve Health and Healthcare Room 102
The focus of this panel is to offer scholars insight into careers that involve the development of technologies applied to healthcare. Alumni are encouraged to share their stories of beginning and then advancing within a realm of work that brings technology into products and services that impact human health and wellness.
Alumni Panelists
Aaron Blakney Vandana Agarwala Nathan JacobsBizBuzz: Thriving in the Business World Room 108
The focus of this panel is on building a solid foundation in a business career and then utilizing this foundation to advance and grow one's career. From Marketing to Supply Chain, Accounting, Finance, Information Systems, and Management, alumni are encouraged to share their strategies for career success with current Scholars.
Alumni Panelists
Sarah Dommer Marvin Johnson Eleni Kornblatt Rachel-Paige Mumenthaler Michael O'Connor Eric Reale Ryan SetzenfandComputer Science, Data Science, and AI Career Pathways Room 010 and Room 107
The focus of this panel is on bringing careers in data, computer science, and AI to life. From developing applications for technology to creating new technology, our alumni are invited to share advice and perspectives on how our Scholars can best prepare for and seek professional opportunities in these career fields that are rapidly changing.
Alumni Panelists, Room 010
Kevin Merlini Keith Graham Nicole Miao Jeff SundheimAlumni Panelists, Room 107
Ed Marx Alejandro Cuevas Duncan HayesEntrepreneurship: Building from a Dream into a Created Career Room 007 and Room 103
The focus of this panel is to invite alumni to share the stories of the commitment, dedication, and work involved in taking a dream and converting it into a business. Current Scholars are drawn to the idea of working for oneself, working with a level of commitment and creativity, and will benefit from hearing how alumni have navigated what can be a complex process of establishing an entrepreneurial career.
Alumni Panelists, Room 007
Rebecca Lee Funk Essa Bangura David Rocchino Jeffrey Rubin Eliza ZimmererAlumni Panelists, Room 103
Dana Ray Alexis Collins Bill Donato Chris Koeppen Katelyn SullivanPlanning Further Education: Graduate Work in MBA Room 003
The focus of this panel is on the pursuit of graduate education in areas related to MBA. Alumni are encouraged to share tips for preparing for graduate work, tips for successfully applying and enrolling, and strategies that lead to achieving career success through the pursuit of advanced level education.
Alumni Panelists
Sarah Shaffer Danielle Finnerty Sydney Hannah Matthew JohnsonPlanning Further Education: Graduate Work in Non-MBA Room 215
The focus of this panel is on the pursuit of graduate education in areas related to STEM and the Humanities. Alumni are encouraged to share tips for preparing for graduate work, tips for successfully applying and enrolling, and strategies that lead to achieving career success through the pursuit of advanced level education.
Alumni Panelists
Sam Bonsall Alexandria Jenkins Molly Johnson Matthew Popek Lisa RuchStanding Out: How to Differentiate Yourself as you Apply for Career and Educational Opportunities Room 005
Today Scholars have more tools available to apply for more positions than ever before. Given the abundance of online applications that employers receive, what advice would alumni offer in terms of how to stand out positively from others throughout the process of seeking employment or pursuing educational goals?
Alumni Panelists
Galen Reeder Wyatt Fink Nate WoodmanThe Art & Science of Sustainable Futures: Cross-Disciplinary Approaches to Environmental Stewardship Room 104
Alumni are invited to share details of their career experiences with sustainability and environmental stewardship. Alumni are encouraged to share advice for Scholars who are eager to build careers that focus on promoting sustainability and enhancing the environment.
Alumni Panelists
Alysha Ulrich Rachel Dungan Andrew Gutberlet Gabe Hiestand Ashish Kapoor Andrew Kreider Apoorva MathurTelling Your Story: Verbally Sharing Your Story in Interviews and Networking Interactions Room 106
In today's career marketplace, what sets applicants apart is often the ability to craft and to communicate your story. This involves reflecting on your story, identifying meaningful themes, and relating those themes to the audience (employers, graduate, and professional schools) that you plan to attract. Alumni are invited to lead students in a process of reviewing and framing their story and practicing communicating that story in this interactive session.
Alumni Panelists
Tom Wilson Eric Conaway KD Frick Melissa Marshall Krishna Mehta Erin PierceVolunteering as an Alum in Your Community and Beyond Room 002
This panel will focus on the “why,” “what,” and “how” of engaging in civic and community service-related work as you graduate from Penn State. Civic involvement is a tremendous way to extend your network, develop new skills, and learn about the community where you reside and work, while making a meaningful difference. Panelists will share their stories of “giving back” while at the same time reflecting upon and sharing how connections and work involved in volunteering have enhanced their careers.
Alumni Panelists
David Falchek Charles Burrows Olivia Francois Karah Hughes Natalie Keller Rose Sharp Stefan WisniewskiWomen in Leadership (presented by Schreyer for Women) Room 217
The focus of this panel is to promote interaction between female alumni and female scholars with a focus on leadership. How can current Scholars prepare to be leaders in their career fields? What are the specific qualities and strengths that make one successful as a leader? What do paths to increasing one's leadership look like across different industries and settings?
Alumni Panelists
Emma Hance Barbara Doyle Kymberly Drapcho Maddie Fisher Sue Kelley Hunter Porcano Stacy Schwartz Jess Strait2:00 - 2:40 PM Session 3 Panels
Consulting Chronicles: Decoding the Consulting World (presented by Schreyer Consulting Group) Room 104
In this session, Alumni are invited to share their experiences in the realm of consulting. Scholars are eager to learn what consulting involves, what the foundational years of experience in consulting are like, and how one can prepare to advance within the field of consulting.
Alumni Panelists
Duncan Hayes Ilya Ekshtut Danielle Finnerty Patrick ScanlanFaculty and Higher Education Career Pathways Room 103
In this session, alumni are invited to share their experience in careers in higher education, including faculty roles, leadership positions, and staff roles in higher education. What can scholars do today to prepare to excel within the realm of higher education?
Alumni Panelists
Lisa Ruch Sara Dommer Andrew Gutberlet Sue Kelley Erin Pierce Allison SavioFinancial Literacy Focused on Life After Graduation Room 002
This panel is focused on how to manage money and approach the range of decisions that come with moving from college into employment. Alumni are invited to offer advice and insight into topics such managing student loans, making significant purchases, navigating benefits options, and developing a budget.
Alumni Panelists
Barbara Doyle Jeffrey LungerGender and Sexual Diversity and Career Success (presented by Gender and Sexual Diversity in Schreyer) Room 215
The focus of this panel is to provide a space for alumni and students who identify as members or allies of diverse gender and sexual identity communities to come together to share insight into how personal identity overlaps and intersects with professional career paths. Alumni are encouraged to invite Scholars' questions about pursuing, entering, and excelling within career fields.
Alumni Panelists
KD Frick Krishna Mehta Jeff SundheimHealthcare Horizons: Exploring Careers in Medicine and Beyond (presented by the Schreyer Medical Team) Room 108
The focus of this career panel is on providing Scholars with insight into a range of health careers, medical doctor, nurse, physician assistant, medial administrator, healthcare nonprofit leadership. What can scholars do to prepare to thrive in a healthcare-related career field, and what have our alumni learned through their experience navigating careers in healthcare settings?
Alumni Panelists
Alexandre Bourcier Rachel Dungan Rida Hamid Alice Lin Ellie MancaLegal Eagles: Navigating Exciting Paths in Law Room 107
This panel is focused on alumni sharing career pathways related to law, with particular emphasis on how those pathways relate to the Schreyer Scholar experience. Tips for preparing for law school, applying to law school, and selecting a specialty field of law are a focus of this panel, as well as how careers in law unfold over time and through experience.
Alumni Panelists, Room 107
Amanda Wetzel Timothy Berkebile Ashish Kapoor Luciano Ricondo Jeffrey Ruben Chris WilsonPublic Service and Navigating the Public Sector: Shaping Policies for a Better Tomorrow Room 003 and Room 007
Alumni are invited to share their experiences and advice with an audience of Scholars with interest in working in public service (nonprofits, fundraising, faith-based/religious and philanthropic roles and organizations) and the public sector — state, local, and federal government, on practices and policies that impact national and global events. Alumni are encouraged to share their tips on preparing entry into this career field, locating openings, and networking with public service and public sector employers.
Alumni Panelists, Room 003
Jess Strait Robert Anderson Aaron Blakney Charles Burrows Karah Hughes Allison SavioAlumni Panelists, Room 007
Muna Heaven Sean Griffin Matt Popek Stefan WisniewskiSocial Science Safari: Alumni Adventures in Education, Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work Room 102
The focus of this panel is on how a social science degree can open a range of career possibilities, not only in the discipline of the degree, but in a range of professional areas, spanning technology, education, health care, business, government, law, and more. Alumni are encouraged to share how their academic foundation in social sciences opened either direct or indirect career pathways.
Alumni Panelists
Marvin Johnson Emma Hance Catherine Kuhns Logan Wincott Eliza ZimmererStanding Out: How to Differentiate Yourself as you Apply for Career and Educational Opportunities Room 005
Today Scholars have more tools available to apply for more positions than ever before. Given the abundance of online applications that employers receive, what advice would alumni offer in terms of how to stand out positively from others throughout the process of seeking employment or pursuing educational goals?
Alumni Panelists
Molly Johnson David Falchek Natalie Keller Deniz Unal Jack YoskowitzTelling Your Story: Verbally Sharing Your Story in Interviews and Networking Interactions Room 106
In today's career marketplace, what sets applicants apart is often the ability to craft and to communicate your story. This involves reflecting on your story, identifying meaningful themes, and relating those themes to the audience (employers, graduate, and professional schools) that you plan to attract. Alumni are invited to lead students in a process of reviewing and framing their story and practicing communicating that story in this interactive session.
Alumni Panelists
Andrew Kreider Tim Chen Apoorva Mathur Dana Ray Katelyn Sullivan Hilary WisniewskiWomen in Leadership (presented by Schreyer for Women) Room 217
The focus of this panel is to promote interaction between female alumni and female scholars with a focus on leadership. How can current Scholars prepare to be leaders in their career fields? What are the specific qualities and strengths that make one successful as a leader? What do paths to increasing one's leadership look like across different industries and settings?
Alumni Panelists
Olivia Francois Rebecca Lee Funk Kendall Kutzavitch Melissa Marshall Kathryn ZeltwangerSuccessful Scholar Alumni Alumni Bios
Learn more about the Scholar alumni attending this year's event.
Attending alumni panelists will be updated as confirmations for Connect 2026 are received. Please continue to visit this website and check your email for updates.
Vandana Agarwala PhD Student, Statistics, Penn State '20 Eng
Vandana Agarwala is a Statistics PhD student at Penn State University. She is based in State College, PA. They previously worked as a Data Scientist for Flagship Pioneering/Abiologics.
Vandana earned her BS in Computer Science.
While at Penn State, Vandana was involved in Research (PI: Shaun Mahony); Internships (Kiva, MITRE, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, NIH); serving as a caretaker for an elderly grandparent.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State: IUG Program; Research at Penn State; Research internships outside Penn State.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Cross-Species Prediction of Transcription Factor Binding.
Her organization is not currently providing opportunities.
Robert Anderson, Esq. Assistant Counsel - Compliance, PSEG Long Island '89 A&A
Robert J. Anderson, Esq. is Assistant Counsel - Compliance at PSEG Long Island. He is based in Long Island, NY. He previously worked for: PSEG as an HR Consultant – Employee Relations; ELLENOFF GROSSMAN & SCHOLE LLP as Counsel in the Labor and Employment Group; DLA PIPER LLP (US as an Attorney in the Employment Group; the NEW YORK CITY DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS as an Attorney in the Paid Sick Leave Division; LANDMAN CORSI BALLAINE & FORD P.C. as an Associate Attorney; NEW YORK CITY LAW DEPARTMENT, LABOR & EMPLOYMENT LAW DIVISION as an Assistant Corporation Counsel; and KATE SPADE, LLC as Legal Intern to Senior V.P./General Counsel. Prior to his legal career, Robert was a professional actor and Member, Actors Equity Association, with highlights including Broadway First National Tour, Off-Broadway, regional and stock theatre (from the East Coast to Alaska), and a national commercial.
Robert earned his BFA in Theater (Performance). He also earned his J.D. from Brooklyn Law School.
While at Penn State, Robert J. was involved in Penn State Thespians; Drama Duo (2-Person Touring Children’s Show Written Specifically for the Actors; Alpha Lambda Delta (Freshman Honor Society) – VP; and worked at Ye Olde College Diner as a Server.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: My Scholars advisor was Helen Manfull; her guidance and unwavering support was instrumental in my progression through Penn State and beyond. The course flexibility I was afforded as a University Scholar allowed me to pivot easily when my interests changed.
His thesis was titled/focused on the project of directing the annual Penn State Thespians children’s show.
His organization has opportunities availble here https://www.psegliny.com/en/Careers (for PSEG Long Island) & here
https://corporate.pseg.com/careers (for PSEG in Newark, NJ).
Essa Bangura Co-Owner, A Place At Home '05 Bus
Essa Bangura is Co-Owner of A Place At Home. He is based in Eatontown, NJ. He previously worked as Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis, Neuberger Berman and as Senior Finance Manager, Invesco.
Essa earnedhis BS in Finance with a minor in African and African American Studies.
While at Penn State, Essa was involved in the Nittany Lion Fund.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Internships at L'Oréal and Johnson & Johnson were my first exposure to a corporate environment. They were profound in both a professional and personal sense—shaping my understanding of leadership, collaboration, and the level of ownership required to drive meaningful results.
His thesis was titled/focused on Origin of the Rwanda Genocide.
His organization is not currently providing opportunities.
Timothy Berkebile, Esq. Construction Attorney / Commercial Litigator, McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC '01 Lib
Timothy Berkebile, Esq. is a Construction Attorney / Commercial Litigator at McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC. He is based in Pittsburgh, PA.
Timothy earned his in BS in Economics (Business & Law Module) / Minor in Labor and Industrial Relations. He earned his J.D. from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law.
While at Penn State, Timothy was involved in: serving as a Resident Assistant in Honors Housing and the Economics Department Honors Program.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Participation in Economics Department Honors Program and his Experience as a Resident Assistant in Honors Housing
His thesis was titled/focused on Comparative Analysis of Cooperative and Adversarial Labor Systems.
His organization is not currently providing opportunities.
Aaron Blakney Epidemiologist, Food and Drug Administration '18 Agr
Aaron Blakney is an Epidemiologist at the Food and Drug Administration, specifically witj the Center for Tobacco Products. He is based in Washington, DC. He previously worked in private sector health science and consulting.
Aaron earned his undergraduate degree in Environmental Resource Management. He also earned additional degrees: an MPH in Environemntal Epidemiology from Emory University, and is pursuing a PhD in Epidemiology at the University of Maryland (expected graduation May 2027).
While at Penn State, Aaron was involved as Undergraduate Teaching Assistant, with Ag Advocates, and with Schreyer Honors College Student Council; internships with the Huntingdon County Conservation District and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and as a teaching assistant in Biology and Environmental Law.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Getting the opportunity to intern at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention made me want to pursue a career in public health. Mentorship from Dr. Tim Kelsey and Dr. Robert Shannon helped guide me into my career that I have today.
His thesis was titled/focused on An Analysis of Climate Change Policies on Economic, Political, and Legal Grounds.
His organization is not currently providing opportunities.
Dr. Samuel Bonsall, CFA, CPA Deloitte & Touche Teaching Excellence Professor of Accounting, Penn State Smeal College of Business;, Student Engagement Chair, Scholar Alumni Society '04 Lib
Dr. Sam Bonsall is the Deloitte and Touche Teaching Excellence Professor of Accounting at Penn State University’s Smeal College of Business; he is also the Schreyer Honors advisor for the Accounting Department. He is based in State College, PA. He previously worked as a Senior Consultant, Bates White LLC. and as a faculty member at the Ohio State University.
Sam currently serves on the Scholar Alumni Society Board as Chair of the Student Engagement Committee for the Society.
Sam earned his BA Economics, his MS in Business Administration, and PhD in Business Administration, all from Penn State.
While at Penn State, Sam was involved in Blue Band and the Political Science Association, and was a teaching assistant for Economics and Accounting Departments.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time here: The opportunity to meet faculty who got him involved in research and introduced him to the idea of pursuing a PhD degree, including David Shapito, his honors advisor in Economics.
His thesis was titled/focused on Bank Opacity and the Lending Channel of Monetary Policy Transmission.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Dr. Alexandre Bourcier, MD, MS Resident Physician - Internal Medicine, UPMC '19 Sci
Dr. Alexandre Bourcier, MD, MS is a first-year Resident Physician in Internal Medicine at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He is based in Pittsburgh, PA.
Alexandre earned his BS in Biology. He earned his MD from the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles.
While at Penn State, Alexandre was involved in Remote Area Medical and Schreyer MD/PhD Summer Internships.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Remote Area Medical; Rocks Ethics Institute; BIO 472.
His thesis was titled/focused on Statistical Model for Prediction of Prefrontal Cortex Neural Signaling.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Charles Burrows, Esq. Deputy Director of Pro Bono Services, Pennsylvania Bar Association '18 Bus
Charles Burrows, Esq. is Deputy Director of Pro Bono Services at the Pennsylvania Bar Association. He is based in Philadelphia, PA. He previously worked as a Staff Attorney at Legal Aid of Southeastern PA.
Charles earned his in BS in Management and BA in Political Science. He earned his JD from the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law.
While at Penn State, Charles was involved in Sapphre Leadership Academic Program and Delta Kappa Epsilon.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Dancing in THON was the best Penn State experience I could have ever had. I also appreciated all of the networking events like this that Schreyer and Sapphire put together - it taught me the soft skills needed for my career.
His thesis was titled/focused on A Natural Experiment on the Environmental Protection Agency’s Legal Enforcement and Its Effects on Volkswagen’s Foreign Direct Investment in the United States.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Observational or Volunteer Experiences.
Tiange "Tim" Chen, Esq. Associate Attorney, Greenberg Traurig, LLP '17 Com
Tiange "Tim" Chen, Esq. is an Associate Attorney at Greenberg Traurig, LLP. He is based in both San Diego, CA & New York, NY. He previously worked as an Associate Attorney at Robinson & Cole; is a Former Board Member, National Asian Pacific American Law Student Association; interned for the World Bank, federal and state courts and state attorney general's office. He is also a member of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and AI Committees at his firm.
Tiange "Tim" earned his BA in Journalism & BA in Political Science. He earned his JD from The George Washington University Law School.
While at Penn State, Timwas involved in: serving as a Peer Mentor at the Bellisaro College of Communications and a student-organized publication; two business case competitions; taking a gap year working in business development for a global law firm.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Presenting his undergraduate thesis at a Bellisario College of Communications roundtable and Undergraduate Expo; A Comparative Media System Class that traveled to the Czech Republic; and Constitutional History & First Amendment seminars.
His thesis was titled/focused on Covering the Rise of the Tea Party Movement in the 2010 Mid-Term Election.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full-Time Positions.
Alexis Collins Associate Booking Producer, MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) '19 Com
Alexis Collins is an Associate Booking Producer at MS NOW (formerly MSNBC). She is based in Union City, NJ/New York, NY. She previously worked as a Graphics Production Assistant at MS NOW's The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell and as a Graphics Production Associate at CBS This Morning (now CBS Mornings). She is also the Founder & CEO of Lexie Writes and the Author of Embracing Changes.
Alexis earned her BA in Broadcast Journalism.
While at Penn State, Alexis was involved in: working as a Library Assistant - Penn State University Libraries (2015 - 2019); Member - Kappa Tau Alpha (2019 - Present); Member - Phi Kappa Phi (2019 - Present); Website Contributor - Her Campus Media (2019) ; Production Intern - C-NET (Centre County's Government and Education Access Network) (2019); Filmmaker - Penn State's Short Doc Workshop (2018, 2019) (filmed & edited two independent documentaries with renowned journalists) ; Technical Director, Crew Member, & Penn State Schuylkill's THON Chapter Committee Member - Penn State THON (2015 - 2016, 2018 - 2019); Member - National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) (2018); Audio; Production Intern - Seven Mountains Media - B94.5 (2018); Media Intern - Defending Rights & Dissent (2018); Participant - Penn State's Global Engagement and Leadership Experience (GELE) (2018); Creative Services Intern - WPSU (2018); Social Media Editor & Reporter - The Underground Student Media (2017 - 2018); News Reporter & Researcher Intern - Lower East Side History Project (2017); Secretary & Member - Penn State Schuylkill's Honors Club (2017); Academic Research Paper Presenter - The Eastern Communications Association,; Undergraduate Conference, Boston, MA (presented two papers on various panels) (2017); Notetaker for Students with Disabilities - Penn State Schuylkill (2017); English, Spanish, History, & Statistics Peer Tutor - Penn State Schuylkill's Academic Resource Center (ARC) (2016 - 2017) .
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: I really enjoyed collaborating with Dr. Russell Frank on my Schreyer Honors thesis. He presented me with the idea of hosting and facilitating a small panel comprised of Black Penn State journalism students. During the panel roundtable, they verbalized their honest experiences and perspectives in working in the student media organizations as people of color. Their insight added further context and nuance to my paper and my views on media since then.
Additionally, I greatly enjoyed my Media Studies South Africa embedded program with Dr. Olorunnisola. Prior to our class trip to South Africa in the summer of 2019, I had never really travelled. Flying to South Africa was my first time traveling outside of the country. At first, I was apprehensive about doing an 18-plus-hour flight, I didn't even have a passport, but Dr. O convinced and helped me to expedite my passport application and go. I'm deeply grateful to him, and for this amazing time abroad because it allowed me to explore different cultures and parts of the world, while motivating me to travel more. Since then, I've been to several different countries and U.S states and look forward to visiting plenty more!
Furthermore, I loved my time at the Penn State GELE retreat, it was a fantastic opportunity to meet and connect with people of different cultural backgrounds and exchange views, personal stories, and ideas. It was a transformative experience that I would've gladly done again. We built a tight-knit community that extended beyond the retreat, and remained good friends.
Her thesis was titled/focused on “Unless We’re Singing or Dancing, We Are Not Going to Be Represented in the Media”: Stereotyping of African Americans in Penn State Student News Coverage.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunties;Full-Time Positions.
Eric Conaway Engineering Manager - Propulsion and Thermal Systems, Astrobotic '98 Eng
Eric Conaway is an Engineering Manager, Propulsion and Thermal Systems at Astrobotic. He is based in Pittsburgh, PA. He previously worked as a Senior Engineer at Curtiss-Wright.
Eric earned his BS in Engineering Science & Mechanics.
While at Penn State, Eric was involved in: serving as an Aerospace lab assistant and Composites lab assistant; a Co-op at Pratt & Whitney; an Internship at NASA Langley Research Center; and on a Flag football IM team.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Dr. Cengiz Camci as my thesis advisor provided excellent education and life guidance, and recommended me to attend the von Karman Institute which opened many career opportunities for me. To this day I use an experience with him helping me to learn rocket thermodynamics as a strong example of prioritizing learning as a fundamental goal.
Dr. B.L. Lee as my academic advisor helped me choose my academic path, employed me in his composites lab work, gave me the opportunity to see my pieces tested at the Air Force Research Lab at the Wright Patterson Air Force Base, and celebrated me as a person.
His thesis was titled/focused on Tip clearance flows in turbomachinery.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunties;Full-Time Positions;Informational Interviews;Observational or Volunteer Experiences.
Dr. Alejandro Cuevas Postdoctoral Fellow in Computer Science, Princeton University;, Co-Founder, Redoux '18 IST
Dr. Alejandro Cuevas is a Postdoctoral Fellow at Princeton University. He is based in Princeton, NJ. He is also Co-founder of Redoux.
Alejandro earned his BS in Security and Risk Analysis. He earned his PhD in Computer Science from Carnegie Mellon University.
While at Penn State, Alejandro was involved in: Presidential Leadership Academy, SHC Scholar Assistant, The GLOBE, LIONS Center, TA. Internships at PwC, Microsoft, and EPFL.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Doing computer security research with Prof. Peng Liu and Prof. Xinyu Xing. PLA. Participating in competitions across Penn State.
His thesis was titled/focused on Understanding the Reproducibility of Crowd-reported Vulnerabilities.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Dr. Sara Dommer Assistant Professor of Marketing, Penn State Smeal College of Business '05 Bus
Dr. Sara Dommer is an Assistant Professor of Marketing at Penn State University’s Smeal College of Business. She is based in State College, PA. she was previously an Assistant Professor of Marketing at Georgia Tech University.
Sara earned their undergraduate degree in BS in Marketing. She earned her PhD in marketing from the University of Pittsburgh Katz Graduate School of Business.
Sara will begin serving on the Scholar Alumni Society Board this summer.
While at Penn State, Sara was involved in: No Refund Theatre; the Daily Collegian,; and an internship with Kohl's.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State :Writing my thesis opened my eyes to an academic profession and changed my career path dramatically.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Gender In-Group Bias in Advertising and the Effect of Gender Identity.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Bill Donato President, Patriot Growth Insurance Services;, Campaign Committee Chair for Schreyer Honors College '94 Bus
Bill Donato is a President at Patriot Growth Insurance Services. He is based in Philadelphia, PA. He previously worked as CEO of The Safegard Group.
Bill earned his in BS in Finance.
Bill currently serves on the Schreyer Honors College External Advisory Board as Chair of the College's fundraising committee for the next Penn State capital campaign.
While at Penn State, Bill was involved in: serving as President - Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity and President - Interfraternity Council, and volunteering with THON.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Thesis Process, various scholar lectures.
His thesis was titled/focused on Analyzing the Correlation of Variable Compensation to Company Performance.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunties;Full-Time Positions.
Barbara Doyle, MBA Retired - VP of Finance, H.B. Fuller, Inc., Alumni Engagement Chair, Scholar Alumni Society '83 Bus
Barbara Doyle, MBA is a Retired - VP of Finance at H.B. Fuller, Inc. She is based in St. Paul, Minnesota. She also serves an assistant professor in the MBA program at Saint Mary’s University. She previously worked as the VP of Finance for Itron, Inc, VP of Corporate Communications for Lawson Software, and as aDirector and Controller, IBM Inc.
Barbara earned her BS in Finance.
Barbara currently serves on the Scholar Alumni Society Board as Chair of the Alumni Engagement Committee for the Society.
While at Penn State, Barbara was involved in: serving as a Teaching Assistant in Sociology and Women's Intramural Tennis.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Finance 101 on Saturday mornings in the Fall at The Forum with Dr. Bradley (taught commitment!); Elective classes in geology, pottery, fencing, etc (learning value of multi-dimensional experiences); and Corporate Recruiting Day at the Hub (found my job!).
Her thesis was titled/focused on Risk Effects of Banking Deregulation .
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Kymberly Drapcho Editor in Chief, Veriheal;, Co-Founder, Dive Magazine '18 Behrend
Kymberly Drapcho is the Editor in Chief at Veriheal the Co-Founder of Dive Magazine in Denver, CO (coming soon!). She is based in Denver, CO. She previously worked as a Fashion Editor at 303 Magazine and as a Victim Advocate at the Sexual Assault Victim Advocate Center in Colorado.
Kymberlr earned her BA in English at Penn State Behrend.
While at Penn State, Kymberlr was involved in: serving as Editor at the Behrend Beacon and as a Research Assistant of Dr. Sarah Whitney in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality studies.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State: working on The Behrend Beacon and her faculty advisors, Dr. Sarah Whitney and Dr. Craig Warren.
Her thesis was titled/focused on “Ready to stay hidden for a long, long time”: Analyzing Male Victims of Sexual Violence in Young Adult Literature.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Rachel Dungan Adjunct Faculty, Penn State and Georgetown University '12 HHD
Rachel Dungan is an adjunct instructor in the Integrative Arts Program at Penb State and in the Department of Government, Democracy & Governance Program at Georgetown University. She is based in Washington, DC. She previously worked at Academy Health, as an Artist-in-Residence and Podcast Producer forStreet Sense Media; and as aFulbright Public Policy Fellow (FPPF) in the Ministry of Health & Public Hygiene in Côte d'Ivoire.
Rachel earned her BS in Biobehavioral Health and in Civic & Community Engagement, and a BM in Music Composition.
While at Penn State, Rachel was involved in: I was the President and an active member of the Essence of Joy (EOJ), and continue to sing with the Essence of Joy Alumni Singers (EOJAS): dedicated to the performance of music from the African and African American traditions. I also sang with the Chamber Singers and with a cappella group, Shades of Blue, in addition to performing on occasion with the jazz band and combos. I was in the Schreyer Honors College and involved in leading multiple service events, along with participating in Leadership Jump Start (LJS) and Civic & Community Engagement (CIVCM) programs. I served as a research and teaching assistant with the Department of Health Policy & Administration, and completed internships with an organization then called "Poverty Resolutions" and with out-of-state organizations focused on community capacity building of local arts and business entities. I also served on two student focus groups dedicated to providing feedback on the overall university general education curriculum.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State; Essence of Joy; Civic & Community Engagement Minor (and all related coursework).
Her thesis was titled/focused on ON IGNORANCE AND BLISS: AN ANALYSIS OF THE APPLICABILITY OF RAWLSIAN THEORY AS A MODEL FOR ETHICAL DECISION-MAKING IN TRIAGE SCENARIOS.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Ilya Ekshtut Partner, Avalanche Investments '00 Bus
Ilya Ekshtut is a Partner at Avalanche Investments. He is based in Feasterville, PA.
Ilya earned his BS in Finance and in International Business.
While at Penn State, Ilya was involved in: Varsity soccer and volleyball at Penn State Abington; an Internship at United HealthGroup.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Semester abroad requirement (University of Amsterdam); Convenient and conducive to learning accommodations at the Scholar's dorm in the middle of campus; Well rounded business education which served as strong basis across corporate, consulting and entrepreneurial environments.
His thesis was titled/focused on stock trading spreads before and after stock split announcements.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
David Falchek, CAE, IOM, CMP Executive Director, Serving Seniors, Inc. '91 Com
David Falchek is the Executive Director of Serving Seniors, Inc., a nonprofit organization serving vulnerable older adults across more than ten counties in Pennsylvania. He is based in Scranton, PA. David is actively engaged in his community and professional associations, serving as treasurer for the Scranton Downtown Federal Credit Union, chair of the City of Scranton Board of Ethics, director of Meals on Wheels of Lackawanna County, and regent for the Institute for Organization Management (IOM) Northeast, based at Villanova University. He previously led the American Wine Society, a national credentialing and educational organization, as its Executive Director following a fifteen year career a journalist.
David earned his BA in Journalism.
While at Penn State, David was involved in: College Democrats, Kappa Sigma.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Getting to see people like Desmond Tutu and Phillip Glass at Eisenhower Auditorium.
His thesis was titled/focused on Reporter and Source Confidentiality.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Wyatt Fink Applications Engineer, Xact Metal '24 Eng
Wyatt Fink is an Applications Engineer at Xact Metal. He is based in State College, PA. He also serves as a Professional Tutor for Tierney Education.
Wyatt earned his in BS Engineering Science.
While at Penn State, Wyatt was involved in: an Internship at the Applied Research Lab, as a Scholar Assistant for SHC, and as a Scholar Ambassador. He also lived in The Globe LLC.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: The Globe LLC, his Undergraduate Thesis, and SHO Time!
His thesis was titled/focused on Simulation of laser based additive manufacturing of metals.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Danielle Finnerty Organizational Strategy Consultant, Vanguard '13 Lib
Danielle Finnerty is an Organizational Strategy Consultant at Vanguard. She is based in Philadelphia, PA. She previously worked as a Director for Corporate and Growth Strategy at EY-Parthenon, as an Associate Financial Advisor at CURO Wealth Management, and as an Analytics Consultant at IBM.
Danielle earned her BA in International Politics. She earned her MBA at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business.
While at Penn State, Danielle was involved in: THON as a Donor and Alumni Relations Captain, Atlas THON, Homecoming as a Donor Relations Captain, working as a Lion Line Caller, and in the Phi Beta Kappa Society.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their her at Penn State: My involvement in THON as a Donor and Alumni Relations Captain for 2 years had significant impact on me. It helped me become more comfortable with structured team leadership and what it takes to be an effective leader. Additionally, my business minor coursework introduced me to the world of business, which inspired me to obtain my MBA at Wharton.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Trends in public support for US-involved wars in the past ~75 years.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full-Time Positions.
Maddie Fisher Senior Associate, Emerging Leader Development Program, Vanguard '24 Bus
Maddie Fisher is a Senior Associate in the Emerging Leader Development Program at Vanguard. She is based in Malvern, PA. The Emerging Leader Development Program (ELDP) is a program that hones skills in people leadership and business strategy through four six-month rotations.
- Rotation 1: Client Relationship Associate
- Rotation 2: Chief of Staff in Advice and Wealth Management
- Rotation 3: Creative Strategist
- Rotation 4 (current): Global Brand Strategy Consultant.
Maddie earned her BS in Marketing.
While at Penn State, Maddie was involved in: Penn State on the THON Executive Committee as the 2024 Public Relations Director; Presidential Leadership Academy; Harmony; Undergraduate Public Speaking Center Student Mentorl; serving as a SHO Time Mentor, ; and in Epsilon Sigma Alpha.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: THON Executive Committee - Serving on the executive committee as the Public Relations Director clarified my career interests in brand strategy, public relations, and marketing. Leading a team of 28 helped me define my leadership style - an experience that continues to translate directly into how I lead teams at my company. This role also helped me discover my purpose and how to leverage my skills to make a meaningful impact on others.
Public Speaking Mentor: As a peer mentor, I strengthened my public speaking skills while learning how to effectively coach and support others. I helped peers refine their messaging, build confidence, and ultimately find their voice through thoughtful, individualized guidance.
Presidential Leadership Academy: Through the philanthropy of Ed and Helen Hintz, this program broadened my global perspective and exposed me to diverse viewpoints alongside my peers. Ed and Helen's generosity inspired a strong commitment to paying it forward. The program curriculum has taught me that leadership roles are a means of service and impact.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Harmonizing Hip-Hop and History: The Implications of Music Congruence on Broadway's Hamilton.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full-Time Positions;Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunties.
Olivia Francois Exam Developer, The National Restaurant Association;, Vice President, Scholar Alumni Society '14 Agr
Olivia Francois is an Exam Developer at the National Restaurant Association. She is based in Queens, NY. She previously worked as a Test Developer for Cambium Assessment and as a Fundraiser at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.
Olivia currently serves on the Scholar Alumni Society Board as Vice President and was previously Chair of the Alumni Engagement Committee for the Society.
Olivia earned her BS in Toxicology with a Global Health minor.
While at Penn State, Olivia was involved in: Schreyer Honors College Student Council; Ag Advocates; Lion Scouts; Summer Tour Guide; Undergraduate Research Assistant: Center for Healthcare and Policy Research; Undergraduate research: Dr. Sonia Cavigelli's lab;
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their her here: Every experience I had taught me something about myself - the most impactful taught me what I did NOT like/want in a future career. My experience as an Ag Advocate helped me find my graduate assistantship through my faculty advisor. My research experience taught me that I did not like lab work and I needed to change my career goals.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Titled: Trait Anxiety and its Relationship to Peripheral Cytokine Production in a Healthy Human Sample.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
KD Frick Professor, Carey Business School, Johns Hopkins University '91 HHD
Professor KD Frick is a Professor at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. They are based in Baltimore. MD. KD is also and Associate Editor at American Journal of Public Health and Women's Health Issues, and previously served as Dean of the JHCBS.
KD earned their BS in Health Policy and Administration.
While at Penn State, KD was involved in Newman Catholic Student Association and the American College of Healthcare Executives Student Chapter.
They found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State (1) Taking the Politics of Scarcity with James Eisenstein—a great combination of economics and politics and interest group issues that benefits me to this day as I think about how to communicate effectively about data to change policy .
(2) Taking both the introduction to the US Healthcare System with graduate students (honors credit) and Epidemiology with Charles Yesalis who was an incredible mentor and asked me to tutor one of my own classmates for epidemiology, contributing to my love of teaching
(3) Having Bob Hurley as my advisor who was able to connect me with Fred Richmond at the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare for my internship between junior and senior year that helped me begin to develop my data anlaysis skills
Their thesis was titled/focused on Nursing Home Reimbursement.
Their organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Rebecca Lee Funk President and Founder, National Fund for Women;, Founder and CEO, The Outrage; Co-Founder, The Wick '07 Bus
Rebecca Lee Fun is President and Founder at National Fund for Women, Founder and CEO of The Outrage, and co-Founder of The Wick. She is based in Washington, DC.
Rebecca Lee earned her BS in Accounting, BS in Science, and BA in Philosophy.
While at Penn State, Rebecca Lee was involved in: I co-owned a women's clothing boutique on Beaver Ave, was the Math tutor for the Penn State Football team, did research in the Schmidt lab on a paramyxovirus and played intramural volleyball (two-time champs!).
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Penn State, and SHC specifically, let me fully explore my academic interests. I didn't feel locked into one path (and ended up with three very different majors) but have drawn on both the substance of those degrees as well as the ability to run parallel tracks.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Effects of climate change on the world's major food crops.
Their organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full-Time Positions.
Keith Graham Advanced Engineering, Codasip '85 Eng
Keith Graham leads Advanced Engineering at Codasip. He is based in Seattle, WA. He previously worked as Teaching Professor at University of Colorado (Fall 2016 thru Fall 2021) and had a full career at Thorson Rocky Mountain.
Keith earned his in BS Electrical Engineering.
Keith previously served on the Scholar Alumni Society Board.
While at Penn State, Keith was involved in: serving as President of IEEE student chapter, Co-op at the Department of Defense, a Summer Scholarship Internship at General Motors in Kokomo, IN.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Going to the NSA Internship talk opened my eyes to Electrical Engineering and obtaining my first Co-Op position. Due to this talk and Co-op position, I changed majors from Chemical Engineering to Electrical Engineering. My honors' advisor, Dr. Mitchell, guided my exploration of Electrical Engineering and my future career options. Being awarded the GM Scholarship and its summer work provided the experience of different occupations or fields of work within Electrical Engineering. Without this experience, I may have worked two to three years before understanding what my desired Electrical Engineering role would be.
His thesis was titled/focused on something he cannot remember.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Sean Griffin Humanitarian Program Advisor, US Department of State '09 Lib
Sean Griffin is a Humanitarian Program Advisor at the US Department of State. He is based in Washington, DC. He previously worked in roles that included, Deputy Team Lead - Ukraine, Humanitarian Assistance Officer, Syria Team, and BH Grants Specialist, all at USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA); as a Program Manager - Ukraine, Catholic Relief Services; and as a US Volunteer in Ukraine with the Peace Corps.
Sean earned his BA in International Politics and his BA in Economics.
While at Penn State, Sean was involved in: Essence of Joy Choir and Concert Choir.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Schreyer International Service Learning Trip to India; Study Abroad in Spain; On-campus Peace Corps Recruiter
His thesis was titled/focused on The Impact of Bilateral Trade with China on Human Rights in African States.
Their organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Informational Interviews.
Andrew Gutberlet Project Delivery Division Head, Applied Research Lab, Penn Statee '98 Eng
Andrew Gutberlet is a Project Planning, Design & Construction Division Head at the Penn State Applied Research Laboratory. He is based in University Park, PA. He previously worked as Manager of Engineering Services, Penn State Office of Physical Plant; a Deputy Public Works Officer, Naval District Washington; and as Senior Project Manager, Naval Facilities Engineering Command.
Andrew earned his BS in Engineering Science. He also earned his M.Eng. in Environmental Engineering from Johns Hopkins University and his MA in National Security and Strategic Studies from the United States Naval War College.
While at Penn State, Andrew was involved in: Society of Engineering Services, Undergraduate Research (Materials Science), and internships with EPA and Maryland Department of the Environment.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time here: Graduating from Engineering Science and the exposure to its diversity of fields of study helped him to recognize the value of breadth of knowledge in addition to depth. After graduation, this led to: Opportunity to lead a multi-million dollar program after 18 months of professional experience;
Opportunity to manage a congressionally-mandated project including briefings to senior executives at the Pentagon; and Opportunity to manage a $650 million design and construction project with limited project management experience.
His thesis was titled/focused on Engineering solutions to address acid mine drainage.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and Summer Opportunities.
Rida Hamid First-Year Medical School Student (MS1), Penn State College of Medicine '25 HHD
Rida Hamid is a First-Year Medical Student at Penn State College of Medicine. She is based in Hershey, PA.
Rida earned her BS in Biobehavioral Health with a Minor in Global Health.
While at Penn State, Rida was involved in: working as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in Penn State Clinical Neuropsychology Lab, a Global Clinical Trial Intern at Merck, an Oncology Medical Writing Intern at Johnson & Johnson; serving as Advocacy Chair for Days for Girls, President of Ethics in Medicine Club, a Researcher in Nittany AI Challenge, and as an Undergraduate Representative for Emory Morningside Global Health Case Competition.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Her Global Health Minor, the One Health Scholars Program, and classes with Dr. Stephen Kodish.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Racial Disparities in Post-Traumatic Brain Injury Executive Functioning and Processing Speed.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Emma Hance Senior Program Manager, Penn State Readiness Institute '13 Lib
Emma Hance is a Readiness Institute Senior Program Manager at Penn State University. She is based in Pittsburgh, PA.
Emma earned her BPhil in Philosophy and BA in Psychology. She also earned her of MEd in Educational Studies from John Hopkins University, and is pursuing an EdD through Penn State World Campus and the College of Education.
While at Penn State, Emma was involved: in Partnerships for International Research and Education (PIRE) as a research fellow, the Center for Language Science as a research assistant, the Club Crew team, and Atlas THON.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Working as a research assistant and fellow, and navigating the BPhil process to "create" her own major.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Does script influence novel word learning? A comparison of same-script and different-script bilinguals.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Sydney Hannah Integrated Product Team Lead, Northrop Grumman;, Incoming MBA Student, Standford Graduate School of Business '21 Eng
Sydney Hannah is an Integrated Product Team Lead at Northrop Grumman, and will soon begin her MBA at the Stanford Graduate School of Business at Stanford University. She is based in Baltimore, Maryland.
Sydney earned her BS in Mechanical Engineering and her BA in International Politics.
While at Penn State, Sydney was involved in: Schreyer Consulting Group (former president!), SWE, Women in Engineering Program, two internships at ExxonMobil, undergrad research in Carleen Maitland's lab in the college of IST, undergrad research in Robot Ethics and Aerial Vehicles lab (with Alan Wagner), and completed two study abroad trips (National University of Singapore and London School of Economics).
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State 1.) Study abroad experiences (utilized SHC study abroad funding resources to help finance)
2.) PLSC 14 honors with Prof Doug Lemke! Solidified my love for international relations and decision to pursue dual majors
3.) WEP and SWE- the strong community of women constantly supported me in studying engineering and has stayed a strong support system during my professional career
Her thesis was titled/focused on Determining Human Performance Given Robot-Provided Explanations Through Task-Based Interaction.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Duncan Hayes Principal, Bates White Economic Consulting '15 Lib
Duncan Hayes is a Principal at Bates White Economic Consulting. He is based in Washington DC.
Duncan earned his in BS in Economics.
While at Penn State, Duncan was involved in: serving as a Member of the PSU Economics Association, as a TA for Econ 306 (Intro to Econometrics), and held a Donor outreach internship at the State Theatre.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: #1 thesis writing process and #2 taking and then TAing Econ 306, both directly led into my career. #3 would be my first Econ class, Econ 102 (Intro to Microeconomics), as it was what led me to major in economics. Also the Paterno Fellows program which got me into Schreyer.
His thesis was titled/focused on Family Background, Education, and Income Mobility: A Closer Look at the American Dream.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities.
Muna Heaven, Esq. Attorney, NYC Administration for Children's Services '00 Sci
Muna Heaven, Esq. is an Attorney at the New York City Administration for Children's Services. She also serves as the Harlem Chapter Ambassador for Moms Against Media Addiction. She is based in New York, NY. She previously worked as the Interim Executive Director/Legal Counsel for the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.
Muna earned her BS in Biology and BA in French Language and Culture. She earned her JD from McGill University.
While at Penn State, Muna was involved in: the Equestrian Club and the Caribbean Students Association.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State: Study Abroad, Honor's classes, and Exposure to all kinds of people, cultures and backgrounds
Her thesis was titled/focused on The Mother/Child Relationship As Seen Through French Caribbean Literature.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Gabriel Hiestand Staff Engineer, Herbert, Rowland, & Grubic, Inc. '23 EMS
Gabriel Hiestand is a Staff Engineer at Herbert, Rowland, & Grubic, Inc. He is based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and works.
Gabriel earned his BS in environmental systems engineering. He also earned his MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of California at Berkeley.
While at Penn State, Gabriel was involved in: Undergraduate research with Dr. John Regan; Engineers Without Borders, Reformed University Fellowship, SHO Time, and Earth and Mineral Sciences Academy for Global Experience.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time here: The mentorship he got from his honors adviser and thesis adviser, completing undergraduate research including his honors thesis, his involvement in Engineers Without Borders, first as a project lead and then President, and growing in his faith through Reformed University Fellowship.
His thesis was titled/focused on Bioprospecting for Phosphorus Accumulating Organisms for Water Treatment.
Gabriel is happiest to talk with you about Deciding to pursue and thrive in graduate/professional school; Adjusting to living in a new location; Making the most of Penn State through experiences outside class.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Full-Time Positions.
Karah Hughes Administrative and Programs Coordinator, Centre Helps '24 Lib
Karah Hughes is an Administrative and Programs Coordinator at Centre Helps. She is based in State College, PA.
Karah earned her undergraduate degree in Political Science.
While at Penn State, Karah was involved in: fostering an inclusive environment - She was on the executive board for Latino Caucus, BRASA, and she was an RA for the Schreyer living learning community in Simmons Hall. She also worked in the White Building as an E-Sports Attendant
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time here: Being an RA taught her important administrative and interpersonal skills that are crucial to her career today. She often use the training she received as an RA when welcoming clients in crisis to the agency, leading with compassion and practicing immediacy to help them in whatever way they can. Additionally, studying Mexican history and politics in Puebla, Mexico profoundly expanded her world view and gave her a greater understanding about everyday life outside the U.S. Additionally, taking employment law with Prof. Miles solidified her intent to go to law school.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Ideological Alignment in Brazil’s Legislature and its Effect on Indigenous Legislation.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and Summer Opportunities; Informational Interviews; Observational or Volunteer Experiences.
Dr. Nathan Jacobs, Esq. Patent Attorney, Wolf, Greenfield & Sacks, P.C. '13 Sci
Dr. Nathan Jacobs, Esq. is a Patent Attorney at Wolf, Greenfield & Sacks, P.C He is based in Boston MA. He previously worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow, at NYU Langone Health.
Nathan earned his BS in Immunology & Infectious Disease and his BS in Biology. He earned his PhD in Population Biology from Emory University and JD from Suffolk University Law School.
While at Penn State, Nathan was involved: in Research with Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics (Eric Harvill's lab, now at UGA); Biology Department TA (110H, 220M); Science LionPride; Biomedical Sciences Club.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: 1. A Saturday morning lecture by Andrew Read giving an overview of the history of infectious disease ecology and evolution led me to shift my research interests from an immunological focus to a more evolutionary one.
2. Exposure to CIDD faculty's leading expertise in infectious disease ecology and evolution, through several classes and during departmental seminars, made me well-prepared for graduate school.
3. The support of the University Fellowships Office was invaluable in applying for things like the Goldwater Scholarship, even years later while writing proposals for the NIH and NSF.
His thesis was titled/focused on Transmission dynamics of Bordetella bronchiseptica following vaccination with whole-cell kennel cough and acellular pertussis vaccines.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities.
Dr. Alexandra Jenkins Assistant Teaching Professor of English, Penn State College of the Liberal Arts '06 Lib
Dr. Alexandra Jenkins is an Assistant Teaching Professor of English at Penn State. She is based in State College, PA. She previously worked as a Pre-Arrival Advising Assistant for Penn State Global and in various English language intrusction roles in China and the United States.
Alex earned her BA in English. She earned her MA in English from the University of Nebraska and her PhD in English from the Ohio State University.
While at Penn State, Eliza was involved in: Peers Helping Reaffirm Educate and Empower, Mid-State Literacy Council.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Spending a year in Berlin, Internship in Disability Studies, Jane Juffer's Chicana/o Cultural Production Class.
Her thesis was titled/focused The African Company Presents Richard III: A Contemporary Play Remembers.
Her organization is not currently providing opportunities.
Marvin Johnson Associate Director, Marketing - Scrum Master, Merck '14 Lib
Marvin Johnson is the Associate Director, Marketing and a Scrum Master at Merck & Co., Inc. He is based in Upper Gwynedd, PA.. He previously worked as a Talent Acquisition Specialist at Aramark; a Diversity & Inclusion Specialist at Aramark; a Talent Acquisition Specialist at Pennoni; a Diversity & Inclusion Specialist at FMC; a Learning & Development Sr. Specialist at Merck & Co., Inc.
Marvin earned his BS in Psychology (Business Option).
While at Penn State, Marvin was involved in: Penn State Ballroom Dance (competitive) RUF Student Ministry, and Basketball Pep Band.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: I/O Psychology, Study Abroad (Buenos Aires), and the PSU Career Services Center, as well as his involvement with Ballroom Dance and student ministry.
His thesis was titled/focused on Voluntary Code Switching Costs Among Spanish-English Bilinguals.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full-Time Positions; Informational Interviews.
Matthew Johnson, MBA Associate Brand Manager, The Hershey Company '18 Eng
Matthew Johnson, MBA is an Associate Brand Manager at The Hershey Company. He is based in Hershey, PA. They previously worked for Technical Solutions Engineer at Epic Corporation.
Matthew earned his BS in Biomedical Engineering. He also earned his MBA from NYU Stern School of Business.
While at Penn State, Matthew was involved in: I was the Merchandise Director for Penn State Homecoming, where I managed 30 captains and committee members in the operation, marketing, and analysis of merchandise sales. I also was the President of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES), which led networking efforts for aspiring and current Biomedical Engineering students of all years.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Being the Merchandise Director for Penn State Homecoming allowed me to grow as a leader. I needed to manage the time of 30 students while also running a small business. Also, I really enjoyed my Gen Ed Art History classes that I took at Penn State. I will not be growing a career in Art History, but I really enjoyed those classes and still try to learn more about Art History every now and then.
His thesis was titled/focused on BLOOD PRESSURE AND ITS EFFECTS ON MUSCLE STIFFNESS MEASUREMENTS THROUGH ULTRASOUND ELASTOGRAPHY.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Full-Time Positions; Informational Interviews.
Molly Johnson, MS Senior Manager - Clinical Trials, Eli Lilly & Co. '12 HHD
Molly Johnson is the Senior Manager - Clinical Trials at Eli Lilly and Company. She is based in Lewes, DE. She previously worked there as a Senior Clinical Research Associate/Clinical Research Associate, II/Clinical Research Associate/Clinical Trials Assistant at Avid Radiopharmaceuticals, Inc. Molly was also a Dance Instructor and Choreographer at Stage Stars Dance and Acro, a Lead Healthcare Recruiter at Maxim Healthcare Services, Inc., and a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Delaware Athletic Training Research Laboratory.
Molly earned her BS in Kinesiology - Movement Science with a Minor in Dance. She also earned her MS in Biomechanics and Movement Science from the University of Delaware.
Molly found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Working as an Undergraduate Laboratory Assistant at the Psychophysiology Laboratory. The skills Molly learned in consenting research participants, collecting research data, and then designing and executing an honors research thesis led to a success in graduate school and now have been crucial parts of her career in Clinical Research.
Additionally, serving in leadership roles in different student-run organizations provided valuable opportunities for Molly to grow her peer-leadership and communication skills. Organizing and speaking at group meetings, as well as communicating with my peers helped Molly to gain confidence as a leader.
Molly’s thesis was titled/focused on Electroencephalography in Sport-Related Concussions.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities: Full Time Positions.
Ashish Kapoor Senior Energy and Climate Policy Analyst, Piedmont Environmental Council '03 Lib
Ashish Kapoor is a Senior Energy and Climate Advisor at The Piedmont Environmental Council. He is based in Aldie, VA. He is also the founder of Stainless Baby, a firm specializing in selling non-toxic children's dishware.
Ashish earned his BA in Economics and his BA in Political Science.
While at Penn State, Ashish was involved in: serving as Lead facilitator for World in Conversation Project (formerly Race Relations Project), with Legal Affairs in the University Student Government; on the Executive Committee Hindu Students Council; and as a TA Sociology 119.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State: Soc 119 Race and Ethnic Relations with Dr. Sam Richards; ; Introduction to Filmmaking and Black and White Photography (Comms Dept); Political Science 497 with Dr. Errol Henderson
His thesis was titled/focused on SUBURBAN WHITE FLIGHT: THE SELF-CONFIRMING STEREOTYPE AND OTHER PHENOMENA.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities.
Natalie Keller Senior Research Scientist, The Campbell's Company;, Immediate Past President, Scholar Alumni Society '17 Agr
Natalie Keller is a Senior Scientist at The Campbell's Company. She is based in Philadelphia, PA. She previously worked as a Senior Scientist for La Colombe Coffee Roasters and a Scientist at Mondelez International - Nabisco.
Natalie currently serves as the Immedaite Past President of the Scholar Alumni Society, which she led as President from 2021 through 2025
Natalie earned her undergraduate degree in Food Science.
While at Penn State, Natalie was involved in Schreyer Student Council, THON, undergraduate research, teaching assistant in FDSC Microbiology & Engineering courses, and the Food Science Club. Natalie also interned in R&D at Mondelez International.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: thesis & undergraduate research, extracurricular involvement and leadership.
Natalie’s thesis was titled/focused on antimicrobial efficacy of lecithin and eugenol on listeria monocytogenes.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities: Informational Interviews; Internships, Co-Ops, and Summer Opportunities.
Dr. Sue Kelley Associate Teaching Professor of Biobehavioral Health, Penn State College of Health and Human Development;, Board Member, Scholar Alumni Society '91 Lib
Sue Kelley is an Associate Teaching Professor of Biobehavioral Health at Penn State University. She is based in Williamsport, PA and works primarily on-site or in-person. Sue previously worked as an Associate Professor of Psychology at Lycoming College and as a Dean of Business, Arts & Sciences at the Pennsylvania College of Technology.
Sue currently serves on the Scholar Alumni Society Board.
Sue earned her BA in Psychology. She also earned her MS and PhD in psychology, both from the University of Pittsburgh.
While at Penn State, Sue was involved in: her Sorority, a peer helper, and worked on Jude Cassidy's research project (from which she pulled data for her thesis) as a research assistant.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: connecting with faculty and becoming involved in research. The more intimate honors classes that she had (including being able to take a graduate seminar) were instrumental.
Sue’s thesis was titled/focused on how maternal emotions affect infant play exploration.
Her organization is not currently offering opportunities.
Dr. Christopher Koeppen Advisor, Attalon, Inc. (Advent International Portfolio Company) '92 Sci
Dr. Chris Koeppen is an Advisor at Attalon, Inc. (an Advent International portfolio company). He is based in New Hope, PA. He previously worked as the Executive VP and General Manager for Coherent Aerospace & Defense; as Chief Technology Officer for Coherent Corporation, and as the Founder of CardinalPoint Optics.
Chris earned his BS in Physics and BS in Mathematics. He earned his PhD in Physics from the University of Pennsylvania.
While at Penn State, Chris was involved in: Penn State Soccer Club, Intramural Sports, and Internships at SAIC.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Soccer Club, living in Atherton Hall, and being a Scholar.
His thesis was titled/focused on Anderson localization in acoustic systems.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Full-Time Positions.
Eleni Kornblatt Vice President, Commercial Strategy and Marketing, Dynavax Technologies '98 Bus
Eleni Kornblatt is a VP Commercial Strategy + Marketing at Dynavax Technologies. She is based in Berwyn, PA and works primarily Hybrid, or a blend of in-person and remote. She previously worked as Global Marketing at HPV Vaccines, Merck.
Eleni currently serves on the Scholar Alumni Society Board.
Eleni earned her undergraduate degree in Supply Chain and International Business. She also earned her MBA at Villanova University.
While at Penn State, Eleni was involved in Alpha Chi Omega Sorority. She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time here: Study Abroad and Internships.
Her thesis was titled/focused on High Speed Transportation.
Eleni is happiest to talk with you about Your industry/discipline; Career Fair preparation; Networking; Interviewing; Resume Writing; and Finding internships.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities: Informational Interviews.
Andrew Kreider Communications Director, Chester County, PA '96 Lib
Andrew Kreider is the Communications Director for Chester County, PA. He is based in West Chester, PA. He also serves as the Vice Chair, Valley Forge Park Alliance. He previously worked for Government Affairs at the U.S. EPA.
Andrew earned his BA in Political Science.
While at Penn State, Andrew was involved in: The Daily Collegian, Undergraduate Student Government, and College Democrats.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Writing a thesis, any Soc class with Sam Richards, the PSU alumni network, small honors classes, and engaging in the political and electoral process.
His thesis was titled/focused on The J-Curve Theory of Social Revolutions.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full-Time Positions;Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Observational or Volunteer Experiences; Informational Interviews.
Dr. Catherine Kuhns Senior Research Associate, Urban Institute '11 HHD
Dr. Catherine Kuhns is a Senior Research Associate at Urban Institute. She is based in State College, PA.
Catherine earned her BS in Human Development and Family Studies. She earned her MEd from Fordham University and her PhD in Human Development and Quantitative Methods from the University of Maryland.
While at Penn State, Catherine was involved in: working as a Family Relationships Lab Research Assistant, as a Teaching Assistant, interning at the Population Research Institute, mentoring through Big Brothers Big Sisters, volunteering with THON, working at a retail store downtown and as a summer camp counselor.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State :HDFS 129 (my first HDFS course and the reason I changed my major); Sherry Corneal and Sarah Kollat - the most memorable, incredible teachers (and people!) I've ever had.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Do differences between siblings' personal characteristics impact differences between siblings in the parent-child relationship?
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Full-Time Positions.
Kendall Kutzavitch Incoming Law Student, Georgetown University;, Educational Leadership Consultant, Alpha Phi Foundation '25 Lib
Kendall Kutzavitch is an Educational Leadesrhip Consultant for Alpha Phi and will soon begin her JD at the Georgetown University Law Center. She is based in Washington, D.C.
Kendall earned their undergraduate degree in BA in International Politics with an Enhanced Minor in English and a Certificate in Holocaust and Genocide Studies. They also earned additional degrees in Educational Leadership Consultant, Alpha Phi Foundation.
While at Penn State, Kendall was involved in: Beyond academics, I served as Chapter President of Alpha Phi, leading a chapter of over 300 women through the transition into Penn State’s only current sorority house and achieving full occupancy to secure the chapter’s long-term stability. Prior to serving as President, I held roles as Panhellenic Delegate, Director of Formal Recruitment, and Director of Informal Recruitment, where I represented our chapter on the Panhellenic Council and led large-scale recruitment strategy and outreach initiatives.
I was also selected as a Teaching Assistant for Honors Rhetoric and Civil Life, mentoring first-year honors students in persuasive writing and civic discourse. Through the Schreyer Honors College, I conducted an award-winning independent honors thesis examining gender representation and military spending, and I studied abroad in Barcelona focusing on International Political Economy.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State :The experiences that had the greatest impact on my Penn State journey were completing my honors thesis research, studying abroad in Barcelona, and earning an additional Certificate in Holocaust and Genocide Studies. My undergraduate thesis, which examined the relationship between female political representation and military spending, challenged me to conduct original cross-national research and think critically about how gender shapes policy decisions. Further, receiving the Political Science Best Thesis Award affirmed the depth of that work and strengthened my confidence as a scholar.
Studying abroad in Barcelona broadened my understanding of international political economy by allowing me to examine governance and economic systems in a lived, global context. At the same time, pursuing the Holocaust and Genocide Studies certificate deepened my engagement with moral philosophy, historical accountability, and human rights. Together, these experiences diversified my academic expertise and pushed me to move beyond a single disciplinary lens. They allowed me to apply knowledge across political science, history, ethics, and law, ultimately helping me get the most out of my undergraduate education. In doing so, they not only shaped me intellectually but also strengthened my law school applications by demonstrating rigor, range, and intentional academic growth.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Women in Government: A Comparative Analysis of Female Representation and Militarization Spending Across Countries & Time.
Her organization is not currently offering opportunities.
Dr. Alice Lin, MD Resident Physician - Internal Medicine, UPMC '20 Sci
Dr. Alice Lin, MD is a first-year Resident Physician in Internal Medicine at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. She is based in Pittsburgh, PA.
Alice earned her BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and her BA in French and Franophone Studies. She . earner her MD from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.
While at Penn State, Alexandre was involved in Remote Area Medical, Volé, Cavener Lab, and worked as a medical scribe.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: serving as President of Remote Area Medical; working as a medical scribe; and study abroad opportunities in France and Tanzania.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Development of Gene Editing Strategies for Correcting Human Genetic Diseases.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Jeffrey Lunger Business Analyst, Capital One '23 Lib
Jeffrey Lunger is a Business Analyst at Capital One. He is based in Washington, DC. He previously worked as an Associate inAmateur Scouting at the New York Mets and as an Analyst Fellow at the Miami Marlins.
Jeffrey earned his BS in Economics.
While at Penn State, Jeffrey was involved in: working as a Penn State Baseball student manager, interning with the Cape Cod Baseball League, serving as VP of the Sports Analytics Club, and in the Economics Club.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Study Abroad, his Mathematics minor, his time as Baseball Student Manager
His thesis was titled/focused on The Bonus: An Analysis of Fund Allocation in the MLB First Year Player Draft.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Ellie Manca, MPH Senior Manager, Global Publications, Aegnus '20 HHD
Ellie Manca is a Senior Manager, Global Publications at Agenus. She is based in Bucks County, PA. She previously worked for Red Nucleus as a Principal Scientific Communications Manager.
Ellie earned her BS in Biobehavioral Health. She also earned her MPG with a focus in Biostatistics and Epidemiology from the Penn State College of Medicine through the IUG program.
While at Penn State, Ellie was involved: in Penn State Club Soccer, working with HealthWorks as a peer educator & HIV counselor, a Soccer Shots coach, working in the Penn State Healthy Bodies Project/Lab, Italian club. Ellie also helped plan Connect with the SHC Career Development and Alumni Relations staff.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State 1) thesis, 2) class: writing in the social sciences, 3) Dr Lori Francis’ lab
Her thesis was titled/focused on Point-of-purchase, child-friendly marketing in grocery stores & parental decision making .
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Melissa Marshall VP - Project Delivery & Commercial Integration, Westinghouse;, Board Member, Schreyer External Advisory Board '00 EMS
Melissa Marshall is the Vice President - Project Delivery & Commercial Integration at Westinghouse. She is based in Nashville, TN & Pittsburgh, PA. She previously worked for Westinghouse: as VP - Global Audit, Risk, & Controls; VP & Chief Compliance & Risk Officer; Director - Commercial Integration New Plants; and Manager - Enterprise Risk Management. She also worked for Alcoa as an Internal Auditor and for Deloitte as a Consultant.
Melissa earned her BS in Materials Science & Engineering. She earned her MBA from Carnegie Mellon University.
Melissa currently serves on the Schreyer External Advisory Board and previously served on the Scholar Alumni Society Board.
While at Penn State, Melissa was involved in: Alpha Gamma Delta sorority, Phi Kappa Phi, and working summer internships at Alcoa and ATI.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: (1) Internship at Alcoa in metallurgy research; (2) my honors thesis that was a result of the Alcoa internship and publication of work; (3) my sorority that provided leadership opportunities and lifelong friendships
Her thesis was titled/focused on A Computational Thermodynamic Analysis of Atmospheric Magnesium Production.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Full-Time Positions.
Ed Marx Vice President, Enterprise Analytics, Vanderbilt Health, Board Member, Schreyer External Advisory Board '98 Eng
Ed Marx is the Vice President for Enterprise Analytics at Vanderbilt Health. He is based in Nashville, TN. He previously worked as a Client Service Executive for McKinsey & Co., as an Engineer for Procter & Gamble, and as an Adjunct Professor, Lipscomb University.
Ed earned his BS in Chemical Engineering.
Ed currently serves on the Schreyer External Advisory Board and previously served on the Scholar Alumni Society Board.
While at Penn State, Ed was involved in: AIChE - Junior rep and President; TA - Chemical Engineering; Research - focus on stopping blindness due to leaky cells; Internship with Procter & Gamble.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Learning leadership through AIChE; Taking an Engineering business class that led to my love of business; Being a TA and learning to love teaching others.
His thesis was titled/focused on The effect of synthetic heparin on the hydraulic conductivity of endothelial cells.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Apoorva Mathur Engineering Manager, Continuous Improvement, Daimler Truck North America '18 Eng
Apoorva Mathur is an Engineering Manager for Continuous Improvement at Daimler Truck North America. She is based in Charlotte, NC. She previously held other engineering and sustainability roles with the same firm.
Apoorva earned her BS in Industrial Engineering with a Minor in French. She earned her MS in Business Analytics from Georgia Tech University.
While at Penn State, Apoorva was involved in: SHO Time, Engineering Ambassadors, Penn State Infusion, The Globe LLC, Internships with General Motors, Boeing, and several Non-Profits; Volunteering at the Science Center in downtown State College, Research in both BME and IE labs, Grading for Econ, and playing Intramural Soccer.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: My engineering design honors class is probably one of the most influential classes I took, it helped me pick my major and has since helped me view engineering and my industry in a very unique way; My study abroad experiences really shaped my decision to pursue a more global career; My internships ultimately helped me decide what specific industry I wanted to work in and create a passion for that industry.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Cognitive benefits of underdesk workout equipment.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Full-Time Positions; Observational or Volunteer Experiences; Informational Interviews.
Krishna Mehta, P.E. Senior Mechanical Engineer, GFT '05 Eng
Krishna Mehta, P.E. is a Senior Mechanical Engineer at GFT. He is based in Doylestown, PA. Krishna has over 19 years of experience as a Mechanical Engineer in the movable bridge industry.
Krishna earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering.
While at Penn State, Krishna was involved in: Indian Club, and working for IT support.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: My professors had the biggest impact.
His thesis was titled/focused on Transient Simulation of an Infinitely Wide Fluid Lubricated Journal Bearing.
His organization is an Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) firm with many active positions and internships. Please visit gftinc.com/careers.
Kevin Merlini VP, Product Management - AI for Tax/Accounting Firms, Thomson Reuters '14 Bus
Kevin Merlini is the Vice President for Product Management - AI for Tax/Accounting Firms at Thomson Reuters. He is based in New York City. He previously worked as the Founder and CEO of Materia AI.
Kevin earned his BS and MACC Accounting.
While at Penn State, Kevin was involved in: Phroth Humor Magazine, Delta Sigma Pi Business Fraternity, and Innoblue Entrepreneurship Group.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Thesis with Sajay Samuel, Adventure Literature Course, Entrepreneurship Independent Study with Liz Kisenwether.
His thesis was titled/focused on The Indentured Students of America.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Nicole Miao Manager, Omnichannel Engagement Analytics, Customer Insights & Analytics, Nordstrom '18 Com
Nicole Miao is a Manager for Omnichannel Engagement Analytics, Customer Insights & Analytics at Nordstrom. She is based in San Diego, CA. She is also a working toward her certification as a Pilates instructor. She previously worked as a Data Scientist at Havas Edge and the Business Operations Manager at the Daily Collegian.
Nicole earned her BA in Advertising and Public Relations and her BS in Information Science and Technology. She earned her MS in Integrated Marketing Communication from Northwestern University.
While at Penn State, Nicole was involved: in Social Media Intern at Admission Office (8/2017-12/2017); Member of THON 2017's PR committee; Business Operations Manager, Daily Collegian Business 2018; Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society; Alpha Delta Sigma Honor Society; Kappa Tau Alpha National Honors Society; Peer Mentor, College of Communications; President, Nonprofit Photo Studio; Dancer, Chinese Traditional Dance Club.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Honors Thesis; working for the Daily Collegian.
Her thesis was titled/focused on THE EFFECTIVENESS OF USER- AND MARKETER-GENERATED CONTENT.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full-Time Positions; Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Informational Interviews.
Rachel-Paige Mumenthaler Vice President, Technology Finance, PNC Bank '15 Lib
Rachel-Paige Mumenthaler is a Vice President - PNC Technology Finance Group at PNC Technology Finance. She is based in Philadelphia, PA. She previously worked as an Investment Banking Analyst at PNC Debt Capital Markets - Loan Syndications and was an Analyst at LBC Credit Partners.
Rachel-Paige earned her BS in Economics and International Political Economy with Minors in Business and Spanish.
While at Penn State, Rachel-Paige was involved in: studying abroad in Seville, Spain and researching in Tanzania. She was involved in Phi Mu, Penn State College Democrats, was a Penn State Hedgefund Club Founding Member Class, the Econ Association, Liberal Arts Envoys, and Club Tennis. She also held internships as a Legislative Assistant, an internship as Investment Banking Analyst at PNC Debt Capital Markets, and an internship at Live It - a start up company with Surge Business Development.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State: Being part of Schreyer and having access to the mentorship program, talks at the GFC lounge, and access to Schreyer Alumni. A memorable experience was the Trek to Wall Street trip and A freshman honors seminar with Dr. Robert Packer studying International Political Economy.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Economic Crises and Financial Regulation Throughout the History of the United States.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities: Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Full-Time Positions.
Michael O'Connor Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel, Cloudburst Technologies '05 Eng
Erin Pierce Golden-Wing Society Manager at the Lab of Ornithology, Cornell University '08 EMS
Erie Pierce is the Annual Fund "Golden-Wing Society" Manager for the Ornithology Lab at Cornell She is based in Ithaca, NY. She previously worked as a Program Coordinator, Susquehanna Greenway Partnership; as a Watershed Development Coordinator, AmeriCorps VISTA; and as a Research and Teaching Assistant, Ohio University.
Erin earned her BS in Geography. She earned her MA in Geography from Ohio Univesrity.
While at Penn State,Erin was involved in: Penn State Crew Club; internships with National Geographic, ClearWater Land Conservancy, State College Borough Planning Department; undergraduate research assistant with Center for Integrated Regional Assessment's post-Katrina research; undergraduate teaching intern for GIS lab sections; working as a lab assistant for the USDA Watershed Management Research Lab and working front-line customer service at the IT Help Desk.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Schreyer travel grant to study in Wellington, New Zealand; Geog 115: World Landforms introducing me to Utah and Andy Goldsworthy; Principles of Fly Fishing; a terrifying freshman seminar in Game Theory.
His thesis was titled/focused on Visualizing The Past In A Digital Environment: Historic And Cultural Geographies of Miles Township, PA
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full-Time Positions.
Matthew Popek, AICP Transportation Planning Manager, Montgomery County (PA) Planning Commission '09 EMS
Matthew Popek is the Transportation Planning Manager at Montgomery County Planning Commission. He is based in King of Prussia, PA.
Matthew earned his BS in Geography. He also earned his MS in Community and Regional Planning from Temple University.
While at Penn State, Matthew was involved in: Represent Penn State (voter registration), SHC Student Council, Geography student organization, University Choir, UnderDOGs, Gamma Theta Upsilon, summer internships with a TMA and townships.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time here: Geography classes including GEOG 20U with Roger Downs, summer internships, meeting friends in the dorms, attending AAG national conferences, managing 2008 campus-wide voter registration drive.
His thesis was titled Redrawing the Lines: An analysis of the reasons, processes, and results of redistricting elementary school enrollment area lines in Upper Merion Township, Pennsylvania.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities: Informational Interviews.
Hunter Porcano Auxiliary Materials Category Manager, Anheuser Busch '24 Eng
Hunter Porcano is an Auxiliary Materials Category Manager at Anheuser Busch. She is based in St. Louis MO.
Hunter earned her BS in Biological Engineering.
While at Penn State, Hunter was involved in: American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, Orchesis Dance Company, 2024 THON Dancer, Food Quality Intern at Ardent Mills, Romania Summer Study Abroad, TA for Excel Modeling Class, Research Assistant in Food Science under Dr. Josephine Wee, Research Assistant for CCHANGE project under Dr. Juliana Vasco-Correa, Assistant Brewer/Bartender at Antifragile Brewing Company, Bartender at Doggies Pub.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: My thesis work had a huge impact on my career - I got to explore the economics side of engineering and found a passion for it. It is what led me to take a job in procurement/supply chain. Studying abroad in Romania for a water sustainability research project was also life changing - drove me to be more passionate and think way bigger. My assistant brewing journey at Antifragile was my introduction to the beer industry which led me to apply for Anheuser Busch.
Her thesis was titled/focused on TECHNO-ECONOMICAL ANALYSIS OF A DAIRY COW FARM-SCALE ANAEROBIC DIGESTION SYSTEM.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Dana Ray Independent language strategist, healthcare justice advocate, '11 Lib
Dana Ray is an independent language strategist, healthcare justice advocate. She is based in Harrisburg, PA. They previously worked for
Dana earned her BA in English with a Minor in Disability Studies. She earned her MA in English at Bucknell University.
While at Penn State, Dana was involved in: Ballroom dance! [Thank you SHC early registration for making that possible! The joy of my life!] SHC Resident Assisatnt in Simmons Hall, 2008-2010; Writing Center Peer Tutor; Reader for Kaliope Literary Journal.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their her time at Penn State: 1) Dr. Susan Squier, Introduction to Disability Studies, Honors Seminar, Fall 2009. Rocked my world and everything I've done and experienced since has been impacted by it.
2) Dr. Janet Lyon telling me in a SHC English meeting to apply for a Fulbright + Ruth Mendum for helping me to do so.
3) Judith McKelvey really showed me how to sink my teeth into a text and how to write about it.
4) Creative Writing faculty leading workshops like Charlotte Holmes and Elizabeth Kadetsky.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Mystical Body: On Faith and Writing.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Eric Reale, CPA Financial Advisor, Meritage Wealth Management '14 Bus
Eric Reale, CPA is a Financial Advisor at Meritage Wealth Management. He is based in New York, NY.
Eric earned his BS and MACC in Accounting.
While at Penn State, Eric was involved in: Delta Sigma Pi, a business fraternity.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Joining a business fraternity helped make campus much smaller and gave me friends for life. Career wise, doing the MACC program to earn a Master's degree and 150 credits and then followed by earning my CPA has been the most impactful professionally.
His thesis was titled/focused on Student Debt/Loans.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Galen Reeder Senior Vice President, Operations, dormakaba '86 Eng
Galen Reeder is Senior Vice President, Operations at Dormakaba USA. He is based in Indianapolis, IN. He previously worked as Operations Director for Carrier Fire and Security, and as an Operations Director for Delphi North and South America.
Galen earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering.
While at Penn State, Galen was President of Pi Tau Sigma, a research lab assistant to Dr. John Lamancusa, Noise/Vibrations Lab, and a tutor/grader/proctor for Department of Mathematics. He was also a research lab assistant to Dr. Frankl in the Department of Physics. He completed internships at General Motors and with the US Army.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Summer internships with the US Army and General Motors and student groups (intramural sports, SHC special events, residence hall house events).
His thesis was titled/focused on The use of robots for automation of industrial glass cutting.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities: Internships, Co-Ops, and Summer Opportunities; Full Time Positions.
Luciano Ricondo, Esq. Partner and Attorney, Merchant & Gould P.C. '09 Eng
Luciano Ricondo, Esq. is a Partner and Attorney at Merchant & Gould P.C. He is based in New York, NY.
Luciano earned his BS in Industrial Engineering. He earned his JD at Hofstra University’s Maurice A. Deane School of Law.
While at Penn State, Luciano was involved in: THON.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Capstone Senior Project.
His thesis was titled/focused on INVESTIGATION OF PHYSIOLOGICAL VARIABLES USED FOR PATIENT MONITORING IN HOSPITALS.
Their organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities.
Jeffrey Ruben, Esq. President, WSFS Home Lending, WSFS Bank '85 Bus
Jeffrey Ruben, Esq. is President, WSFS Home Lending at WSFS Bank. He is based in Bryn Mawr, PA. He previously worked as the Founder & President, Array Financial Group, Inc. and for Arrow Land Transfer Co.
Jeffrey earned his BS Economics. The earned his JD at Temple University.
While at Penn State, Jeffrey was involved in: Penn State HIllel, serbing as VP.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Dr. Budd's seminar-type economics classes and Opportunities to spend non-class time with Professors.
His thesis was titled/focused on An Analysis of the F.D.I.C..
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Full-Time Positions.
Dr. Lisa Ruch Assistant Dean and Professor of Humanities and General Education, Bay Path University (MA);, Board Member, Scholar Alumni Society '89 Lib
Lisa Ruch is an Assistant Dean of Humanities and General Education and Professor of Humanities at Bay Path University. She is based in Longmeadow, Massachusetts and works primarily Primarily on-site or in-person. She previously worked as the Director of Communications and Information Technology program (Bay Path University); Chair of Liberal Studies (Bay Path University); and Assistant Dean of Liberal Studies (Bay Path University).
Lisa currently serves on the Scholar Alumni Society Board and previously served on the Graduate School Alumni Society.
Lisa earned her BA in World Literature. She also earned her MA in English from Indiana University and her PhD.in Comparative Literature from Penn State.
While at Penn State, Lisa was involved in: Student Council, and the University Scholars Program. She was a research assistant for a faculty member in the Department of Comparative Literature, and a member of University Choir.
Lisa found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time here: being a research assistant for a faculty member in the Department of Comparative Literature where she helped prepare an edition of a Middle English verse chronicle, and a winter research trip to London with the University Scholars Program,
Her thesis was titled From Formulas to Literature: Dorothy L. Sayers and Georges Simenon.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Allison Savio Development Assistant for Senior Associate Vice President, Penn State Division of Development and Alumni Relations '24 Lib
Allison Savio is the Development Assistant for the Office of University Development leadership at Penn State. She is based in State College, PA. Allison is also a Group Fitness Instructor at the North Club. She was previously the Assistant Director of Annual Leadership Gifts at Penn State.
Allison earned her BA in Global and International Studies with a minor in French and her BA in Spanish with a minor in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.
While at Penn State, Allison was involved in: Homecoming, Campus Recreation (Group Fitness Instructors), Liberal Arts Ambassadors, THON, and French Club.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State 1. Study abroad 2. Campus Recreation 3. Networking opportunities like Connect
Her thesis was titled/focused on U.S.-Latin American Relations in the 1950s: The Impact and Inconsistencies of Former President of Penn State Milton S. Eisenhower.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Informational Interviews.
Patrick Scanlan Senior Director of Nuclear Innovation, Waymaker Resource Group '96 Eng
Patrick Scanlan is a Senior Director of Nuclear Innovation at Waymaker Resource Group. He is based in Mountain Top, PA. He worked in a variety of engineering roles prior to his current position, and served in the United States Navy on the USS Jacksonville prior to attending Penn State.
Patrick earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering.
While at Penn State, Patrick was involved in: working as a Redifer Dining Hall Student Manager and serving as President of PSU Veterans' Organization.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: Providing leadership of the student veterans organization and Testifying to the Pennsylvania State Legislature for student veteran GI Bill benefits.
His thesis was titled/focused on Design of a quartz combustion cylinder for studying flame front propagation from spark plugs.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Stacy Schwartz Assistant Professor, Professional Practice - Marketing, School of Business, Rutgers University '95 Com
Stacy Schwartz is a Marketing Professor and Program Director of the MS in Digital Marketing program at Rutgers University Business School. She is based in Bridgewater, NJ. She is also an Independent Marketing Consultant, Board President at Sharsheret. She previously worked as a Learning & Development Consultant at IAB, as VP of Digital Marketing at Virgin Mobile USA, as Director of Web & Special Projects at Hospital for Special Surgery, and in several leadership roles at DoubleClick .
Stacy earned her BA in Advertising. She earned her MBA from the Harvard Business School.
While at Penn State, Stacy was involved in: The Daily Collegian’s Marketing Department, Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, Dance Marathon committees.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Dance Marathon, which fueled my interest in the social sector and nonprofits, global media classes that let me analyze news from various perspectives, and working at the Daily Collegian with real world clients.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Gender Depiction in Children's Advertising.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Ryan Setzenfand Accounting Policy Officer, First National Bank (FNB) '24 Bus
Ryan Setzenfand is an Accounting Policy Officer at First National Bank. He is based in Pittsburgh, PA. They previously worked for as an Assurance Associate for PwC.
Ryan earned his BS and MACC in Accounting, and his BA in Political Science.
While at Penn State, Ryan was involved in: serving as the Accounting Society President, the UPUA Chair of Academic Affairs, as the Administrative Council on Undergraduate Education Student Rep, a TA for MGMT 451W Business Ethics & Society, as Music Service Club Treasurer, working as the Globe Logistics Director, working as Data Director for Eugene DePasquale for PA-10, as a Finance Intern, PPG Tax Intern, and as a Pennsylvania House Fellow - Appropriations Committee Legislative & Budget Fellow.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State Schreyer Distinguished Alumni Mentor Program, Accounting Society President, UPUA.
His thesis was titled/focused on US Federal Political Candidate Self-Loaning Behavior: Non-Market Interest Rates, Tax, and Campaign Finance Law Implications.
Their organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full-Time Positions.
Sarah Shaffer, CPA, MBA Rates & Regulatory Director, EQT Corporation;, Board Member, Schreyer External Advisory Board '97 Bus
Sarah Shaffer is the Rates & Regulatory Director at EQT Corporation. She is based in Pittsburgh, PA. She previously worked as an Audit Manager, for Ernst & Young LLP, a Financial Reporting Manager for Ogden Newspapers, Inc., and as a Senior Business Specialist/Assistant Controller, EQT Corporation.
Sarah earned her BS in Accounting. She earned her MBA from Penn State.
Sarah currently serves on the Schreyer External Advisory Board.
While at Penn State, Sarah was involved in: Phi Gamma Nu and THON,
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State: Independent Research with Jeffrey Sharp; Phi Gamma Nu; and THON. Additionally, as an alumna, serving on the Schreyer Honors College External Advisory Board.
Her thesis was titled/focused on The Legality and Enforceability of Electronic Contracts.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities; Full-Time Positions.
Rose Sharp Administrative Assistant, Penn State Global Learning '22 Edu
Rose Sharp is an Administrative Assistant at Penn State Global Learning. She is based in State College, PA.
Rose earned her BS in Secondary Education with a concentration in English.
While at Penn State, Rose was involved in: serving as an International Student Welcome Leader, as a Global Education Assistant, working a Marketing Internship at The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth, the Upward Bound program, and IECP Tutoring.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: One of the reasons that I chose to come to Penn State is because of the diverse student body, and while I worked on my undergrad, I was involved in more clubs than I could probably name now. Getting to know people from all over the world shaped the way I approached my education and still informs my plans for the future. My CI 295 course in Philadelphia and my applied linguistics courses further allowed me to make connections between my experiences and the practical knowledge I gained in the classroom. Lastly, finding a good team has impacted my career the most since graduating. I first started working for Penn State Global in 2019 and observed the close relationships and support for professional development that the managers had for their teams. Since joining the team full time, I've had so many opportunities, and I'm so grateful that the experiences I had in my undergrad helped me to choose what type of environment would best suit me in my early career.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Culturally Responsive Pedagogy: A Critical Literature Review on Preparing English Language Teacher Candidates to Teach Abroad.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Informational Interviews; Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities.
Jess Strait Senior Global Advocacy Manager, Days for Girls International '22 IST
Jess Strait is a Senior Global Advocacy Manager at Days for Girls International. She is a “digital nomad” but is primarily based in Santiago, Chile and Washington, DC, USA.
Jess earned her BS in Data Sciences.
While at Penn State, Jess was involved in: serving as President & Co-Founder of Days for Girls at Penn State; working as a Students Teaching Students instructor, Teaching Assistant for Entrepreneurial Leadership, and Scholar Ambassador; sitting on the 2021 Penn State Homecoming Student Court; and working Data science internships at MetLife, Organic Valley, and Crisis Track.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State: A service trip with Schreyer for Women completely changed the trajectory of my career. One simple afternoon of volunteering and learning about period poverty introduced me to Days for Girls, the global nonprofit where I started my career. Together with other Schreyer scholars, I started a chapter at Penn State that we grew from an idea to a student organization overseeing thousands of dollars of fundraising and global period product distributions. We sent menstrual care kits everywhere from local food pantries in State College to domestic violence shelters in North Carolina to displaced refugees in Jordan. I even ended up writing my thesis about our program to distribute menstrual cups on college campuses. Safe to say that when I became a data science major, I didn't expect to end up working in advocacy for a nonprofit - but I'm so glad that I did!
Her thesis was titled/focused on The Impact of Menstrual Cup Distribution Programming on College Student Perpetuation of Period Stigma: An Exploratory Data Science Approach.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Observational or Volunteer Experiences; Informational Interviews.
Katelyn E. Sullivan Greater Boston REALTOR®, Coldwell Banker Realty Boston '17 IST
Katelyn E. Sullivan is a Greater Boston REALTOR® at Coldwell Banker Realty Boston. She is They are based in Boston MA. She is also the founder and facilitator of two Boston based community groups, Eastie Gals & Eastie Guys.
Katelyn earned her BS in Finance and BS in IST with minors in Spanish and Leadership Development. They also earned additional degrees in
While at Penn State, Katelyn was involved in: serving as Executive Director of Students Engaging Students; running a Campus- wide Thanksgiving basket drive, had a wreck of breaking year one of the years I was there, Phi Beta Lambda business fraternity (director of membership), dancing in THON 2017 as an Independent dancer; working as a business stats tutor with Lion Tutors, Smeal student mentors, as a research assistant for Dr Maitland a waitress at Primantis; twice serving on THON OPP committees; and Penn State Leadershape as a participant and then onsite coordinator.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: 1. Business fraternity helped me prepare for interviews, professionally, as well as gain well-rounded skills in philanthropy, social and professionalism.
2. Students engaging students, as I loved doing the annual thanksgiving basket drive.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Technology Moves Backwards: The Transition from Mobile Phones to Bank Cards in Cash Transfer Programs in Rwanda.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Jeff Sundheim AI Business Strategist, Tela Strategies '83 Bus
Jeff Sundheim is AI Business Strategist at Tela Strategies. He is based in Brooklyn, NY. He is also an independent sculptor and painter. He was previously an AI Business Strategist & Creative Lead at Google.
Jeff earned his BS in Marketing.
While at Penn State, Jeff was involved in: Political Cartoonist - The Daily Collegian
he found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: - Dean J.D. Hammond was a tremendous mentor and cheerleader; Taking fall term off senior year to manage the re-election campaign for Gov. Dick Thornburgh in Northeastern PA and then write my thesis based on the experience gave me a lot of insight and fuel for landing my first job.; Working as a political cartoonist for the Daily Collegian was a great outlet for my creative and political interests and a terrific way to learn about the publishing field.
His thesis was titled/focused on The Marketing of PA Gov. Dick Thornburgh.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Alysha Ulrich Climate Policy Specialist, State of Delaware '24 EMS
Alysha Ulrich is a Climate Policy Specialist for the State of Delaware. She is based in Lancaster, PA. She is also the Founder of Climatific, a weekly newsletter that explains climate science to nontechnical audiences. She previously worked as a White House CEQ Intern.
Alysha earned her BS in Earth Science & Policy.
While at Penn State, Alysha was involved in: Student Sustainability Advisory Council, THON, independent research, part-time job, club cross country, education abroad.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: The Student Sustainability Advisory Council, THON, and publishing independent research. Honorable mentions to studying abroad, and extremely supportive faculty (Dr. Peter Wilf, Dr. Tim Bralower, Dr. Michael Mann, Dr. Hannah Wiseman, and Mary Edgington, to name a few!).
Her thesis was titled/focused on Presenting a Framework to Address Climate Obstruction Through Activism.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities.
Deniz Unal, MS, MBA, PE, PMP, CSSGB Process/Project Engineering Professional, '12 Eng
Deniz Unal is a Process/Project Engineering Professional in profssional transition between roles. He is based in Pittsburgh PA.
Deniz earned his BS in Chemical Engineering. T
While at Penn State, Deniz was involved in” Undergraduate Research in Chemical Engineering, Internship Abroad in Turkey, Jazz Ensemble, Intramural Sports, THON.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State:
I really appreciated all the opportunities that Penn State has to offer. My internship abroad gave me the opportunity to experience pharmaceutical manufacturing in a European country. My undergraduate research resulted in an honors thesis and a journal publication which I can always revisit to remember my experience and use going forward in my career. All my classes in Chemical Engineering were taught by experienced professors with quality lectures.
His thesis was titled/focused on Partial Flattening of Amidine-Functionalized Polystyrene Latex Particles.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Amanda Wetzel, Esq. Counsel, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC '02 Lib
Amanda Wetzel is Shareholder and Attorney at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC. She is based in Philadelphia, PA.
Amanda earned her BS in International Politics. Amanda also earned her JD from Columbia Law Schoo,l her Master 1 in French Law from University of Paris I, Pantheon-Sorbonne her Master 2 in International Commercial Law, and her LLM in Human Rights Law.
While at Penn State, Amanda was involved in: music ensembles playing oboe, serving in Lion Ambassadors, and worked a Student Job at the Schreyer Institute for Innovation in Learning.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time here: International thesis research in Northern Ireland and Internship sponsorship to complete two internships at the U.S. Department of State.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Collective Identity in the Northern Ireland Women's Coalition.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities: Full Time Positions.
Tom Wilson Partner & Practice Leader, Buffkin/Baker;, Board Member, Schreyer External Advisory Board '91 Lib
Tom Wilson is a Partner and the Practice Leader for the Technology industry and HR/People functional practices at executive search firm Buffkin/Baker. He is based in San Francisco, CA.
Tom earned his BA in History. He earned his MA in History from the University of Toronto where he studied s a Fulbright Sholar.
Tom currently serves on the Schreyer External Advisory Board.
While at Penn State, Tom was involved in: Honors seminar courses/thesis work, working with the Fellowship Office, and the Alumni network.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time at Penn State: Honors seminar courses and the Alumni network.
His thesis was titled/focused on Post-war State College.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Informational Interviews.
Christopher Wilson, Esq. Partner, Baker Botts LLP;, Board Member, Schreyer External Advisory Board '06 Lib
Christopher Wilson, Esq. is a Partner and Attorney at Baker Botts LLP. He is based in Washington, D.C.
Christopher earned his BA in Political Science. He earned his JD from Stanford University.
Christopher currently serves on the Schreyer External Advisory Board.
While at Penn State, Christopher was involved in: Played on the Penn State Football team, published an article with the Africana Research Center, participated in the Ralph Bunche Summer Institute internship and published an article with the American Political Science Association, spent a semester as a Congressional intern.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: I credit my Honors advisor, Dr. Michael Berkman, my thesis advisor, Major Coleman, and my football coach, Joe Paterno, for much of my career success. Their support for my academic career got me through PSU and their advice and advocacy helped put me on the path to becoming who I am today.
His thesis was titled/focused on Examining generational trends in political affiliation.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Logan Wincott Law Student, Penn State Dickinson Law '23 Lib
Logan Wincott is a JD Candidate at Penn State Dickinson Law. She is based in State College, PA. She previously worked for Child Protective Services Caseworker.
Logan earned her BS in Criminology and her BS in Sociology.
While at Penn State, Logan was involved in: Mock Trial, Rural Health Disparities Research lab, Rock Ethics Institute, Neuroethics research lab.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Mock trial, research labs, Jeff Ulmer (my thesis advisor), and Connect!
Her thesis was titled/focused on Patterns in Homicide Correlates.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Hilary Wisniewski Financial Analyst, The Seed Company '13 Lib
Hilary Wisniewskis a Financial Analyst at The Seed Company. She is based in State College, PA. She previously worked as a Financial Analyst for ExxonMobil.
Hilary earned her BS in Economics and her BS in International Studies.
While at Penn State, Hilary was involved in: THON and Penn State Cru.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Study abroad grant for summer research in Cameroon, and two direct enroll semesters in Berlin and Paris.
Her thesis was titled/focused on Comparative French Literature.
Her organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Stefen Wisniewski Team Chaplain, Penn State Football;, M.Div. Student, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary '10 Edu
Stefen Wisniewski serves as the Team Chaplain for Penn State Football and is completing his Masters of Divinity at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is based in State College, PA. He previously worked as an NFL Offensive Lineman for 10 years, winning two Super Bowl Championships, one each with the Philadelphia Eagles (LII) and Kansas City Chiefs (LIV).
Stefen earned his BA in Secondary Education with a concentration in English.
While at Penn State, Stefen was involved in: playing offensive line for the Penn State football team, including a Big Ten Championship in 2008. He also participated in Athletes in Action, Penn State Cru, and ADLI.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: PSU Football and Athletes in Action.
His thesis was titled/focused on Character Education in Secondary English Classrooms.
His organization is not currently providing any opportunities.
Nathan Woodman Vice President - Capital Markets, Intersection Capital '20 EMS
Nate Woodman is a Vice President for Capital Markets at Intersection Capital. He is based in San Diego, CA. He is also the CEO of Dolphin Apparel. He previously worked for BlackRock as an Associate and for Vanguard as an Analyst.
Nate earned his BS in Energy, Business, and Finance with a minor in Entrepreneurship.
Nate currently serves on the Scholar Alumni Society Board.
While at Penn State, Nate was involved in: interning with KCF Technologies and Vanguard; Sigma Nu Tau (Entrepreneurship Honor Society) as a founding member, Forbes Under 30 Scholar, Penn State Energy Marketing Association – Analyst.
He found that the following experiences were the most influential on his time at Penn State: The Entrepreneurship and Innovation minor, Thesis experience, and all the people that believed in me.
His thesis was titled/focused on Organizational Culture: An Exploration into Two Competing Companies.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Internships, Co-Ops, and/or Summer Opportunities.
Jack Yoskowitz Litigation Partner, Seward & Kissel LLP;, Board Member, Schreyer External Advisory Board '89 Lib
Jack Yoskowitz, Esq. is a Litigation Partner at Seward & Kissel LLP. He is based in New York, NY.
Jack currently serves on the Schreyer External Advisory Board and is a past member of the Scholar Alumni Society Board.
Jack earned his BS in Psychology. He also earned his JD from Columbia Law School.
While at Penn State, Jack was involved in the University Scholars Program, Fencing Club, Speakers Club, and worked in the dining halls. He found that the following experiences were the most influential on their time here: Psychology classes and working with honors advisor.
His thesis was titled/focused on Chess v. Quasi Chess, a study in skill learning.
His organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full Time Positions.
Eliza Zimmerer, LCSW, MPH Licensed Psychotherapist, Eliza Zimmerer LCSW, PLLC '11 Edu
Eliza Zimmerer is a Licensed Psychotherapist at Eliza Zimmerer LCSW, PLLC. She is based in Hastings-on-Hudson, NY. She previously worked as an Executive Assistant at Centerbridge Partners.
Eliza earned her BS in Rehabilitation & Human Services. She earned her MSW from Fordham University and her MPH from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
While at Penn State, Eliza was involved in: Schreyer Honors College, P/T work in local restaurant industry, volunteer/mentor with Centre County Youth Service Bureau.
She found that the following experiences were the most influential on her time at Penn State: Living in honors housing; and volunteering at a girls' group home through Centre County Youth Service Bureau (off campus).
Her thesis was titled/focused on Personal Narratives and Female Psychological Development.
Her organization is currently providing the following opportunities:
Full-Time Positions.
