Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2026 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 conducted valuable research, pioneered innovation, overcome challenges, and engaged in college life in a big way.

Today, we’d like you to meet Samantha Hulings.

Major: Environmental Science

Hometown: Kane, Pennsylvania

Award: Excellence in Environmental Science, Research

Why she chose Behrend: I chose Behrend because of the professor-to-student ratio. It’s very nice to have the ability to build professional relationships with professors and attend their office hours to get help if needed. I also love the small campus. Behrend also has the Wintergreen Gorge in its backyard, so there are many opportunities to get out in nature.

Challenges overcome: Being away from home and my family was a big challenge for me. I’m very much a homebody and I live about two hours from Behrend, so not being able to see my family and pets was pretty challenging in my first year. I called home frequently to stay in touch, and I went home a lot on the weekends.

What she’s passionate about: Being outdoors. Whether it’s spending my evening on a trail ride on one of my horses or just taking a break to touch grass, being outside resets my busy brain.

Advice for first-year students: Don’t be afraid to go to your professor’s office hours. They really do want to help you.

After her graduation in May, Samantha will work in seasonal fieldwork for Ecological Field Services.