By Heather Cass
Publications & Design Coordinator, Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2016 is ready to make its mark on the world!  We’re proud of our students and the things they’ve accomplished and learned while here at Behrend.  We sat down to talk to some remarkable seniors before they left school and we’d like to a few of our students who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technology, participated in important research projects, and left an impression at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Tara Krzysiak

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania

On choosing to major in Mechanical Engineering: I have always loved math and science and I enjoy problem solving and figuring out how things work. Mechanical Engineering was a good fit for my interests.

Leader in training: I’m honored that I’ve been given the opportunity to not only get involved with so many clubs at Behrend, but to also take on leadership roles in them. I became the vice president of Lion Ambassadors and treasurer of Reality Check, and I have been a resident assistant for two years. All these positions have taught me so much about leadership and helped me grow as a person.

Just call me “Grandma”: I enjoy crocheting and making scarves and other items for my family and friends. I once crocheted a rug out of old t-shirts. My friends like to call me “Grandma.”

What you’d be surprised to know about her: I love fitness and just recently became a Les Mills Body Pump instructor.

Advice for current students: Get out of your room and get involved. Your college experiences is what you make of it. There are tons of clubs and organizations and leadership opportunities at Behrend. Take advantage of all that the campus has to offer. You can learn so much about yourself.

Tara has accepted a position as a project engineer at Armstrong World Industries following her graduation in May.