By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications, Penn State Behrend
Penn State Behrend’s class of 2017 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. Over the next couple months, we’ll be introducing you to a few of our remarkable seniors 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 Rachel Sheridan:
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Hometown: Rillton, Pa.
On choosing to major in Mechanical Engineering: I’ve always had a knack for problem solving and my best subjects in school were math and physics. My favorite part of physics was mechanics and when you pair that with my interest in problem solving, Mechanical Engineering is the perfect major for me.
Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: I am most proud of developing a good balance between my involvement on campus and academics. I’ll be graduating with a Grade Point Average of about 3.5.
Campus involvement: I was vice president of Lambda Sigma National Honor Society and Theta Phi Alpha Fraternity, where I held a few other positions, too. I’m a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society and the Tau Beta Pi National Engineering Honor Society.
Scholarships: I received the William F. Roberge and Shirley Roberge Trustee Scholarship multiple times.
What you’d be surprised to know about her: I own and have worked to restore a 1965 Ford Mustang.
Driven to excel: I am passionate about exceeding people’s expectations of me. I strive to excel at everything I do and surprise those who may overlook my abilities.
Advice for first-year students: Try to get an internship in your major early on. Seeing what you will do in your chosen field may change your perspective and affect the direction you want to go in.
Rachel has accepted a position as an engineer at BCI Engineering in Pittsburgh, following her graduation in May.
BEHREND BLOG 