Category: Class of 2023

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Aruj Bhargava (Finance and Accounting)

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 Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Aruj Bhargava.  

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Majors: Finance and Accounting

Certificate: Financial Controllership

Hometown: El Dorado Hills, California

Scholarships: Erie Insurance Group Leader Scholarship, Discover Penn State Award, Intrieri Family Student Scholarship.

On choosing Behrend: I chose to attend Behrend because of the opportunity to dual major in two business disciplines, the small student-to-teacher ratio, the ability to receive scholarships for professional designations, and the reputation of being part of the Penn State family.

On double majoring: Dual majoring provided me with a comprehensive understanding of different facets of the business world, while the small class sizes ensured that I received personalized attention and support from my professors.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: One of my proudest achievements during my time at Behrend was creating a diverse network that has not only opened doors for myself, but also helped other Penn State students secure jobs and internships on Wall Street. By networking with professionals in the financial industry and connecting with like-minded students, I have been able to expand my knowledge and gain invaluable insights into the field. This network has enabled me to advance to the Superday of Goldman Sachs, the last round of intensive interviews at the bank, and has opened doors for many other students to secure prestigious positions in finance and accounting. I am particularly proud of the impact I have had on the Penn State community, helping other students to achieve their career goals and connecting them with opportunities in the industry. By cultivating a supportive and collaborative network, I believe we can collectively achieve greater success and make a positive impact in the world of finance and accounting.

Campus involvement: I am president of the Business Analytics Team and the Financial Management Association, where I have developed strong leadership and organizational skills. In addition, I have been involved as the President of the Intrieri Family Student-Managed Fund, which has given me valuable experience in managing investments and analyzing market trends. Additionally, as the Bloomberg Terminal Manager, I have honed my technical skills and developed a deep understanding of financial data analysis.

His passion: I like having a positive impact on others. Throughout my time at Behrend, I have been dedicated to helping fellow students achieve their career goals and connecting them with valuable opportunities in the finance and accounting industry. It is incredibly rewarding to see others succeed and to know that I played a role in their success. It motivates me to continue working hard.

What he’s learned: In hindsight, I realize that there is a wealth of career paths available in both finance and accounting. However, to secure a position in a top-tier firm, I now understand that it takes a significant effort to prepare for technical and behavioral interview questions and problems. I have gained a deep appreciation for the complexity and nuance of financial concepts, and I am confident in my ability to tackle these challenges. I am well-versed in the analytical and quantitative skills needed to excel in these fields, and I am excited about the opportunities they present. While I may have been initially unaware of the full scope of career options in finance and accounting, I am now dedicated to exploring these paths and finding the one that aligns with my passions and goals. I am committed to staying informed about industry trends, networking with professionals in the field, and continuously developing my skills to ensure my success.

After his graduation in May, Aruj will join HSBC Bank in Chicago as a credit analyst.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Briona Bargerstock (Psychology)  

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Briona Bargerstock.   

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Major: Psychology

Hometown: Kittanning, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: Bunton Waller Scholarship, Meads Scholarship, Phillips Trustees Scholarship, Todd Leadership Scholarship, Wright Leadership Scholarshipo, and the Chancellor Award Scholarship

On finding the right fit: When I was searching for a college, I had a hard time figuring out all the things you need to know to enter college. All my worries were quickly alleviated after I spoke with a representative for Penn State Behrend who was willing to work with me on the application process. When I visited and walked around the campus, I got an overwhelming feeling that this is where I belonged. Four years later, I can say that it is one of the best decisions I have ever made.

On choosing her major: I wanted to help individuals who could not help themselves and be a representative for people of color in mental health services.

Her proudest accomplishment at Behrend: My proudest accomplishment will be graduating from college! It is something that I never thought I would do. I am the oldest child in my family and being able to graduate and serve as a role model to my siblings means the world to me. I have worked very hard for my degree. I’ve grown and accomplished so much during these last four years. I am grateful for everyone who has helped me get to where I am.

Campus involvement: During my time at Behrend I was involved in Random Acts of Kindness, Penn State Behrend Dems, Psi Chi, Psychology Club, Association of Black Collegians, Behrend Leadership Scholars, Academic Integrity Student Representative, Humanities and Social Sciences Ambassador, and the Student Multicultural Advisory Recruitment Team, and I worked as a Reed Union Building Desk Information Attendant. I also was a staff writer for the Behrend Beacon newspaper.

Awards and recognition: I received the T. Reed Ferguson Award during my junior year for my leadership both in both academic and nonacademic settings; the Outstanding Psychology Student award; and the Excellence in Service Award that I received as vice president of Random Acts of Kindness for our project with the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home in Erie. We made cards for veterans so that they would not feel lonely on holidays and birthdays.

What makes her unique: I am a big sister and that translates into everything that I do. This has given me a love of helping others and comforting individuals who may need a shoulder to cry on. I have an immense sense of empathy for all individuals, and I carry that into both my social and professional life.

Finding her confidence: I think people would be surprised to know that I used to be really scared of public speaking. Through my time working at the Reed Union Building Information Desk and learning from my supervisor, Christa Morris, I was able to develop my public speaking skills. Now, I can talk to large groups of people, give speeches, and chat to potential students and their families at recruiting events. The irony is that something I was terrified of when I started college is something I now love to do.

Her passion: I am passionate about equality, and I implement that into everything that I do. I always try my absolute hardest to make everyone whom I work with feel included and accepted for who they are. I feel that too often certain groups are silenced, and I strive to make every individual feel heard. I know what it is like to not be heard, and that is why I have worked so hard to get where I am and be able to serve as representation for the next generation of students entering college.

Advice for first-year students: Calm down. Life will work out how it is supposed to work out. I spent way too long stressing about having everything perfect, only to realize later that you cannot live in the present if all you do is worry about the future. Live in the now and enjoy what is happening in your life every day. The future will work out exactly how it is supposed to in due time.

Parting words: I’m so grateful for all the things I’ve gained at Behrend, including phenomenal professors, best friends, love, confidence, and so much more.

Briona has been accepted to the Applied Clinical Psychology master’s program at Penn State Behrend. She will start in the fall.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Isabella Porco (Nursing)   

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Isabella Porco.   

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Major: Nursing

Certificate: Nursing Informatics

Hometown: Tarentum, Pennsylvania

Campus involvement: UPMC Nursing Campus Ambassador for UPMC St. Margaret, TOPS Soccer volunteer, Alternative Spring Break (Director of Programming), Lion Ambassadors (Public Relations Committee Chair, President), Welcome Week Guide and Welcome Week Leader, Behrend Benefitting THON (Morale Captain), The National Society of Leadership and Success, Leadership Scholar, Technical Mail Services worker.

Awards and recognitions: Most Outstanding Student Organization Member, Irvin H. Kochel Lion Ambassador Award for outstanding involvement, Dean’s List, Completion of the Behrend Honors Program, Leadership Scholarship, Wright Leadership Scholarship.

On choosing Behrend: As soon as I stepped foot on the campus for a tour, I knew that it would be home for the next four years. I absolutely love the historical connection as well as the numerous plants that encompass the arboretum. Behrend also feels like one big family where you can really get to know your professors and faculty who are always there to support you no matter what. 

On choosing her major: I chose nursing because I love to serve in my community and am always looking for ways to give back. With nursing, I can improve patients’ lives every day by offering hope to people during challenging times of their life. I aspire to be a nurse to help all populations through their times of need and ultimately make a real difference in their lives for the better.

What you might be surprised to know about her: I was born in Rhode Island and lived there for the first eight years of my life, and I was also a competitive dancer and performed in Las Vegas.

What success means: Success to me means accomplishing my goals and desires in life, like giving back to those who are less fortunate than I am and truly being able to make a difference in people’s lives. It also means taking the path of more resistance where it can really challenge me as an individual to grow. 

Her definition of living a good life: Life can be a beautiful journey, a crazy ride, and a big adventure; however, it can also be a constant struggle and a hard teacher. In each moment, we get to choose which side of it to embrace, which ultimately affects our mind, body, and future, as well as the person we become. Living a good life to me is about finding purpose, passion, patience, happiness, and perseverance that encompasses adventures of success and failure to really embrace the bumps in the road and celebrate all the victories on the path of life. 

Her passions: One thing that I am extremely passionate about is personal growth like learning a new skill, speaking a new language, resolving conflicts, and actively listening because it creates empowering habits that propel me toward my dreams in life. I think to really ignite your passion, you have to get out of your comfort zone and face uncertainty to learn how to cope with difficult circumstances and confidently face the unknown. I am also very passionate about giving back because it really reminds me how much I have to be grateful for in my life. 

Advice for first-year students: My advice is to not be afraid to get involved on campus and step outside of your comfort zone. It is a great way to strengthen your skillset including leadership, teamwork, communication, time management, self-confidence, and prioritization. It can also lead to lifelong friendships and new networking opportunities. 

After graduation, Isabella will be working at UPMC St. Margaret in their operating room alongside the “Steeler’s Surgeon” as well as preparing for work in behavioral health. 

 

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Marcus James (Software Engineering)

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Marcus James.

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Major: Software Engineering

Hometown: Tacarigua, Trinidad and Tobago

Scholarships: I received the Penn State Behrend Chancellor’s Scholarship.

On choosing his major: I have always been fascinated by technology and computers. When I started taking computer coding classes in high school, I found it interesting, and I liked it a lot. When it came time to look for colleges, I began researching good fields to get into and among them was software engineering, which really appealed to me.

Proudest accomplishment: I have been the president of the International Student Organization. I took over the presidency during a difficult time when it seemed to be falling apart, and because of my efforts during my junior year, the club is very active and thriving again.

Campus involvement: I have been involved in the International Student Organization, the Multi-Cultural Council, the Behrend Lion Entertainment Board, the Organization of African and Caribbean Students, Lion Ambassadors, Triangle Fraternity, and  Engineering Ambassadors, and also served as a leader and director of Behrend’s Welcome Week this past year.

Surprising fact: When I tell people that I am an international student, they are often surprised.

Highest priority: I would like to work first on becoming financially stable. Once I am comfortable, I can start focusing on other passions, like travel.

Wanderlust: I am passionate about traveling. I love discovering and exploring new places and I love learning about new cultures.

Advice for first-year students: Learn how to manage your time early on. College requires a lot of personal responsibility. It’s up to you to do what you need to do to keep your grades up while also having a healthy social life.

After his graduation in May, Marcus will be an Android-focused engineer for Hinge in New York City.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet MollyAnne Lloyd (Industrial Engineering)

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet MollyAnne Lloyd.

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Major:  Industrial Engineering

Hometown:  Erie, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: Behrend has provided several scholarships toward my tuition expenses during the past four years, including the SME Myrtle and Earl Walker Scholarship, the Material Handling Manufacturing Scholarship, the  Charles A. and Elinor Matts Trustee Scholarship, and the Shelly and Shirley Czulewicz Trustee Scholarship.

On choosing Behrend: I love the campus, and it is close to home. I wanted a school that allowed me to go home when I needed to while also earning a solid degree from a well-known school.

On choosing her major: I was supposed to do the 2+2 program; however, early on in my freshman year, Behrend has become my home. My research advisor, Dr. Paul Lynch, exposed me to the disciplines in the engineering department to truly find my passion. By the end of my freshman year, I confidently changed my major to Industrial Engineering.

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Her proudest accomplishment at Behrend: I was recently  selected as the Industrial Engineering department’s Outstanding Student for the 2022-23 year. I truly cannot describe how honored I feel.

Campus involvement: I love campus life at Behrend; there is so much to be a part of here. I have served as president of the American Foundry Society and the Association for Iron and Steel Technology Material and the Manufacturing Club; as treasurer of Society Women Engineers; and as a member of Tau Beta Pi, the National Society of Leadership and Success; the Cast in Steel Competition team; and the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers. I am the former vice president of member development for Alpha Sigma Tau and the former vice president of academics and judicial affairs for the Panhellenic Council.

Awards and recognitions: Dean List; second place in the Sigma Xi Research Competition Recipient; Outstanding Student for the Industrial Engineering Department; and the Alpha Sigma Tau Excellence in Leadership Award.

Advice for first-year students: You are the only one responsible for your success. Own it and take pride in what you do because you are the only person who can make your dreams come true.

After her graduation in May, MollyAnne plans to work in her field for a few years to gain experience and knowledge before attending graduate school.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Jessica Pengilly (Biology)

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Jessica Pengilly.

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Major: Biology (Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior option)

Hometown: Mars, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: I received the Aaron Meehl Scholarship and the John K. Henne Endowment for International Study.

On choosing her major: I absolutely love being outside.

Relationships are key: My proudest accomplishment at Behrend are the relationships that I’ve formed with my professors and fellow researchers.

What makes her unique: I can make any boring situation into a fun time.

Advice for first-year students: Do not be afraid to talk to your professors. They can be some of the most interesting people you’ll ever meet. If you don’t understand a topic in class, meet with them during their office hours. Professors absolutely love it when you ask them questions.

Parting thoughts: College is only as fun as you make it. If you treat every week like it’s miserable, it will be. Find enjoyment in everything you do, and the college experience will be much better.

After her graduation in May, Jessica hopes to find work as a park ranger. 

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Christopher Mamatas (Computer Science)

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Christopher Mamatas.

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Major: Computer Science

Hometown:  Plum, Pennsylvania

On choosing Behrend: I chose Behrend because a few friends from high school all decided to come up here, so we can still be together and accomplish our future career goals.

On choosing his major: I chose my major because I’ve always loved computers and wanted to create with them.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: My proudest accomplishment at Behrend will be working as a programmer and developer of the Landing Place app.

Campus involvement: I am a programmer for the Virtual/Augmented Reality Lab.

What makes him unique: What makes me unique is my applied problem-solving techniques.

What you might be surprised to know about him: I built my own PC in middle school.

His passions: I am passionate about technology and artificial intelligence.

Advice for first-year students: Take time to really study and focus on schoolwork. It is very easy to get carried away with all the fun and freedom of being a first-year student, but don’t get too far behind on your schoolwork.

After his graduation in December, Christopher plans to work as a software engineer.

 

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Brooke Johnston (Environmental Science)

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Brooke Johnston.

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Major: Environmental Science

Minor: Biology

Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

On choosing Behrend: I originally wanted to attend a larger school, but when I toured Behrend I realized that the smaller school environment would give me more opportunities. I really liked the low student-to-professor ratio because I wanted to build meaningful mentor relationships.

On choosing her major: Environmental science is a diverse major that offers a lot of career options after college. I know environmental science majors who are going into geology, law, or construction consultancy.

Her proudest accomplishment at Behrend: I’ve had many great opportunities at Behrend, but when it comes to my proudest accomplishment, I think of my personal development rather than awards or research. I’m proud of the way I’ve come out of my shell at Behrend. As a freshman, I was very quiet, scared to ask questions, and hesitant to talk to people I didn’t know. Now, I’ve grown into someone who is confident in herself and isn’t afraid to raise her hand or speak up.

Campus involvement: Most of my extracurricular involvement at Behrend has involved Science Ambassadors. I would recommend Science Ambassadors to any STEM students because the organization pushed me to become more active in the School of Science and to meet new people. I also have been involved in undergraduate research for the biology department since sophomore year, which has been such an important part of my college experience.

What you might be surprised to know about her: I’m a very creative and artistic person. I’ve always loved writing, singing, painting, and dancing. I was in a dance program for jazz and ballet my entire K-12 years, and was in the school choir for six years.

What makes her unique: I’ve loved science and animals since I was a toddler. Beginning at a young age, I would pick up insects, snakes, and anything that moves. I’ve held everything from baby kangaroos (joeys) and binturongs (bear-cats) to Madagascar cockroaches and snails! I’ve also petted a rhino before, which is my go-to fun fact about myself for icebreakers.

Awards: Behrend Outstanding Freshman of the Year Award in 2020 .

Advice for first-year students: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. This applies to all majors, but especially if you’re in the STEM fields because it’s important to be curious about everything. Being a scientist means a career full of questions, so start asking them now.

What she is passionate about: I could name many things I feel strongly about, but I’m most passionate about being respectful to nature. Nature is so intricate, and I truly admire the way every part of it fits together like a puzzle.

After her graduation in May, Brooke plans to attend graduate school at Syracuse University and work toward a Ph.D. in the biology, evolution, and ecology track.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Ashley Settineri (Mechanical Engineering)

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Ashley Settineri.

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Major: Mechanical Engineering

Minor: Technical Sales

Hometown: Gibsonia, Pennsylvania

On choosing Behrend: I knew going into college that I wanted to go for a degree in engineering and Penn State is well known for their engineering program, especially Behrend. I specifically chose Behrend for the smaller class sizes and their focus on group engagement.

On choosing her major: I chose mechanical engineering because I enjoy designing, which goes hand in hand with mechanical engineering.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Making an impact on other students. I have been able to do this by getting involved on campus, especially as a resident assistant.

Campus involvement: I am an RA and a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority.

What makes her unique: I have always been extremely crafty and love to try new things. Being a very easy-going person, I am always willing to try something new and hope for the best.

People might be surprised to know: Something people would be surprised to know about me is that I have my own small business, a western boutique called Cactash Boutique.

What makes life good: My definition of a good life is one where I get to go outside every day and enjoy nature with my family and friends.

Advice for first-year students: It can be awkward at first trying to find your place and seeing where you fit in but don’t let that discourage you because everyone feels the same way.

After her graduation in May, Ashley will be working at Bechtel Plant Machinery as an entry-level mechanical engineer.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Kendrick Imler (Communication)

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Kendrick Imler.

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Major: Communication

Hometown: Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania

On choosing Behrend: I chose Behrend because of the smaller campus size. With fewer students in my classes, I have been able to make connections with my professors and peers. I don’t feel like I am just a number in any of the classes I have ever taken during my time at Behrend.

On choosing his major: I’ve always enjoyed talking to people and I wanted to go into broadcast journalism.

Master juggler: I’m proud to have made the Dean’s List the past four semesters while being involved in many different clubs and activities.

Campus involvement: I was a resident assistant for two years. I am a member of the Ultimate Frisbee Club and historian for the Lion Ambassadors Club, played percussion in the Behrend Pep Band, and was in three musical productions. I was also a Lion Scout and gave tours to prospective students and their families.

What makes him unique: I’m a very energetic person and I do my best to make people laugh and feel comfortable in any situation.

What you’d be surprised to know about him: I sang backup for Kenny Rogers when I was in high school.

His definition of living a good life: Waking up in the morning in a bed with a roof over your head and knowing that you have friends and family who love you.

Sports nut: I’m passionate about sports. I enjoy watching and playing all different sports.

Advice for first-year students: It is important to know that you are not alone in college. Every first-year student is in a new situation. Put yourself out there as much as possible. Join clubs and attend events. Talk to people and do everything you can fit into your schedule because you might as well make the most of your time at college!

Parting thoughts: Penn State Behrend has the best faculty and staff. They are not only helpful, but welcoming. When I first moved to Behrend, I was scared and nervous, but everyone made me feel welcome, and I am so grateful to have been accepted to Behrend. I have made friends and memories here that will last for the rest of my life.

After his graduation in May, Kendrick hopes to find work in media production.