Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2024 is ready to make its mark on the world!  We’re proud of our students and all that they have learned and accomplished here at Behrend. Over the next several weeks, we will introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have engaged in college life in a big way, conducted valuable research, pioneered innovations, and overcome challenges during their time at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Jenna Alberti:

Jenna as Elle Woods in the college’s production of “Legally Blonde, The Musical” 

Major: Political Science

Minors: Theatre and Spanish

Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Scholarships: Myron and Marlene Jones Open Doors Scholarship; Bunton Waller Scholarship; Michael Jude Woods and Tracy Kimes Woods Family Trustee Scholarship; Council of Fellows Leadership Scholarship; Edward P. and Barbara F. Junker Scholarship; Wagner Family Open Doors Scholarship; Lake Erie Trustee Scholarship at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College; and Pam and Greg Slusher Open Doors Scholarship.

On choosing Behrend: I wanted a Penn State education, and I chose Behrend for its affordability and size.

On choosing her major: I have always had a passion for politics and helping people. My parents always told me that I was going to change the world for the better, and that is what I want to do.

Her proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Becoming the Welcome Week Director with one of my best friends, Josiah Burkett, a senior Elementary and Early Childhood Education major.  I was a leader for two consecutive years before becoming a director, so I really got to grow with the program.

Campus involvement: I have been involved in Sailing Club, Theatre and Theatre Club, Alpha Sigma Tau, Welcome Week, Panhellenic Council, Lion Ambassadors, THON, Pi Sigma Alpha, and the Concert Committee.

Awards and recognitions: I was awarded the Thomas H. Turnbull Award in 2023.

What makes her unique: I am well-versed and love to be active in my community. I am driven by my desire to succeed and make a difference, so giving up is not a word in my vocabulary.

People might be surprised to know: I work part-time at Erie Brewing Company in Knowledge Park, and despite my busy schedule with school, work, and extracurriculars, I do find time to sleep!

Career goals: I plan to continue my education and work my dream career, a job in the FBI.

Advice for first-year students: Take your time. As cliché as it sounds, college goes by quickly, and it is over before you know it. Get involved, make a name for yourself, and build your connections.

Parting thoughts: I love Penn State Behrend, and although I am ready to graduate, I am not ready to say goodbye.

After her graduation in May, Jenna plans to apply to graduate school and earn a degree in Homeland Security.