By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 Alyssa Andrzejewski:

Major: Industrial Engineering

Minor: Operations and Supply Chain Management

Certificate: ERP with SAP

Hometown: Sardinia, New York

On choosing her major: I have always loved math and problem solving. My father is an engineer and my parents definitely encouraged me to pursue a career in the STEM fields. After learning about industrial engineering, I knew it was the right fit for me because I was interested in the process improvement and problem-solving aspects involved in IE.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: When I received my dream job offer (see end note) and accepted it. I felt that all my hard work, time, and networking at Behrend had paid off because it helped me achieve my dream.

Campus involvement: I am a Resident Assistant, and a member of the Society of Women Engineers, the Materials and Manufacturing Group, and the Ski and Ride club.

Snow enthusiast: I love to ski. I actually worked as ski instructor at Peek n’ Peak ski resort in nearby Clymer, New York, this past winter.

Live music lover: One of my favorite things to do is go to concerts. My sister is my favorite live music buddy. I have lost track of how many bands we’ve seen together, most of them are alternative/rock groups.

What inspires her: My family and my future. My parents and my sister are amazing and successful people who have always encouraged me to do my best and to do whatever makes me happy.

Advice for new students: Step out of your comfort zone! Behrend is a place that is full of opportunities and friendly people.

Following her graduation in May, Alyssa will begin working in the Quality Engineering Development Program at John Deere in the company’s Agriculture and Turf Division in Iowa.