Why did you choose to attend Penn State? Are you glad that you did?
I wanted to attend a school with excellent academics and a strong culture, and Penn State has some of the best of both! I loved my time as a Nittany Lion and left as a more thoughtful, better person with lifelong friends.
Did you participate in extracurricular activities like student clubs, organizations, internships, sports, study away, or study abroad? Did they have any impact on you or the start of your career? How??
I was involved in the EMS Student Council (serving as Treasurer and Vice President) and the EMS THON Organization. I was also a member of NECA and served as a THON Dancer Relations Captain. The relationship-building and problem-solving skills I gained through these clubs made my transition to working in professional environments much smoother.
What advice do you have for potential students considering attending Penn State and EMS?
If you're considering Penn State College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, you should know it's a great place to get the best of both worlds. You'll enjoy the vast resources and opportunities of a large university, while still benefiting from a smaller school's close-knit, supportive community. For me, this combination made for an unforgettable college experience.
What one piece of advice would you like to give to students who are graduating?
Stay curious throughout your career. You won’t be expected to know everything when you start, so be comfortable asking questions. The more questions you ask, the faster you’ll learn.
What is your favorite Penn State tradition?
I love singing the Alma Mater with the rest of Beaver Stadium after games. I still do it at home after big wins!
What is your favorite memory of your time at Penn State?
If I had to pick just one, it would be the White Out in my first year (2016). Unranked Penn State pulled off a massive upset against No. 2 ranked Ohio State, and I’ve never been anywhere with as much excitement and positive energy as State College that night. It was the moment that I knew Penn State would be a part of me forever.
What’s your go-to band/song and why?
Mac Miller's “What’s The Use” because it’s a bop.
What’s your favorite weekend activity?
My wife and I love spending Saturday mornings at the local farmers market. Then, we spend the day watching the Nittany Lions and other lesser football games. When it’s not football season, we go on a hike and then find a brewery or winery.