Category: Class of 2023

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Matt Rockage (Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology)

Published on by Behrend BlogLeave a comment

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 Matthew Rockage.

MattRockage

Major: Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology

Hometown: Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania

On choosing Behrend: I chose Penn State Behrend for the hands-on technical experience and industry connections students can make.

On choosing his major: I chose my major because I have always liked doing software coding for custom machines, and electrical engineering helps with the small component portion of what goes into machines.

Proudest accomplishment: My proudest accomplishment at Penn State Behrend is getting involved with Industry relations and helping teach students to get more involved in industry work so that when it is their time to graduate, they are ready.

Campus involvement: I am the President of the 3D Printing Club and the Student Lab Manager/Technician/Product Developer for the James R. Meehl Innovation Commons.

What makes him unique: My unique talents include an extensive knowledge of problem-solving skills that allow me to find the best solution for how to make products, accelerate flow, and prototype in cost-effective ways.

Unplugged: People might be surprised to know that as much as I like technology, I also like getting away from it and going camping for days on end.

Top priority: My highest priority for the coming years is to continue working with Iten Industries and improve the flow for rapid prototyping for the company.

MattRockage2

Let him out: I am passionate about outdoor activities, like mountain biking, dirt biking, camping, kayaking, skiing, and almost anything that can get me outside.

Advice for first-year students: If there is a class that you are struggling in, don’t sit around thinking it will get better. Get help from students, faculty, tutors – there are lots of people who are willing to help you. Also, stick to what you’re passionate about.

After his graduation in May, Matt will work at Iten Industries in Ohio doing rapid prototyping research and development.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Amanda Mullen (Environmental Science)

Published on by Behrend BlogLeave a comment

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 Amanda Mullen.

Amanda Mullen

Major: Environmental Science

Minor: Biology

Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

On choosing her major: From a young age, I knew I wanted to work outside. In high school, I took honors and AP environmental science courses and instantly knew it was the field for me. I love the interdisciplinary nature of this field and the variety of things you can do with the degree.

Her proudest accomplishment:  Winning first place in the student poster category for a display about my research work that I presented at the national Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) conference in Pittsburgh in the fall of 2022.

Campus involvement: I am the Vice President of the National Society of Leadership and Success and a mentor to five sophomore science and engineering majors through the STEM Leaders Program, and I am a Science Ambassador.

Awards: Environmental Science Excellence in Academics and Research Award, Council of Fellows Undergraduate Student Research Award.

What you might be surprised to learn about her:  I was a member of the pep band for many semesters. I played percussion in high school and continued playing in my time at Behrend. I also love to paint.

Advice for first-year students: Everything is going to be OK! A bad grade or a low test score do not define you. Try your hardest in your classes and activities but remember also to have fun and get out of your comfort zone.

After graduation, Amanda plans to attend graduate school at George Mason University and earn a master’s degree in Earth System Science.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Mallory Flesik (Psychology and Political Science)

Published on by Behrend BlogLeave a comment

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  Mallory Flesik.

MalloryFlesik2

Majors: Dual majoring in Psychology and Political Science

Minor: Crime, Law, and Psychology

Hometown: Herminie, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: Edmund L. Lada Memorial Trustee Scholarship; Penn State Behrend Chancellor’s Scholarship; Mel Chrostowski Scholarship; Edward P. and Barbara F. Junker Scholarship; Allyn and Alice Wright Leadership Scholarship.

Awards: Outstanding Political Science Award, Writing Award from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, and the Zachary T. Irwin Humanitarian Award.

Family ties: I chose Behrend because my older brother went to Behrend, which allowed me to see the opportunity that the college offers. After going on my tour of the campus, I knew that Behrend was the right choice for me, especially after seeing how beautiful it is in the fall.

On choosing her major: I chose Political Science because I am passionate about equality and civil rights, and I want to make a difference in the criminal justice system. I added Psychology as a second major at the end of my sophomore year because I like studying the science behind the way people think. I also wanted to have two majors to diversify my experiences and education.

Campus involvement: I was president of College Democrats, president of Pi Sigma Alpha, vice president/social media coordinator/secretary of Planned Parenthood Generation Action, and vice president of the Behrend Political Society. I also was a resident assistant for two years, as well as a member of Behrend Leadership Scholars Psychology Club, and Psi Chi, and I have been involved in musical theater.

What makes her unique: I am driven to help individuals from all walks of life.

Her mission:  I am passionate about using my privilege to give a voice to those who are silenced or marginalized.

Advice for first-year students: Don’t think that you have to stay in the major you decided on when you applied or started at school. Be open to opportunity and to exploring what Penn State has to offer.

Parting thoughts: I would like to thank all my professors and others who have helped me get to where I am today. I would not be here without all that support!

After her graduation, Mallory plans to work for a year or so to gain some experience. Then, she would like to attend graduate school to major in forensic psychology.

 

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Angela Belack (Accounting and Finance)

Published on by Behrend BlogLeave a comment

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 Angela Belack.

AngelaBelack

Majors:  Dual majoring in Accounting and Finance

Hometown:  Pittsburgh

On choosing Behrend: I chose Behrend because I was able to continue playing competitive soccer while earning a degree. I have two older siblings who graduated from Behrend, both soccer players and Finance majors, as well. I saw how much they enjoyed being at Behrend, and I knew I would, too.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Winning the conference championship with the Behrend soccer team in 2021. We had an incredible season that year and even broke a few school records.

(Finance) Challenge accepted: I was a member of Behrend’s CFA Institute Research Challenge Team led by Dr. Greg Filbeck, director of the School of Business. Just being on the team felt like an accomplishment. Our group won first place for our written research report regarding our valuation of Duolingo. This experience allowed me to apply my classroom knowledge to a real-life scenario, as well as develop new professional relationships.

Awards/Honors:  Athletic─Rookie of the Year, First Team All-Conference; Academic─ Dean’s List every semester, Chi Alpha Sigma Athletic Honor Society.

What you’d be surprised to know about her: I have a twin brother and four more siblings.

What comes next: My highest priority in the coming years is my professional career. I’m excited to start this new chapter of my life. Over the past four years at Behrend, I have been building a foundation, and I’m looking forward to using it.

Say ‘cheese:’ I love photography. In the past few years, I have developed my photo skills and started working with clients.  It allows me time to be creative, and I always enjoy seeing the look on people’s faces when you’re able to capture exactly what they wanted.

Advice for first-year students: As everyone says, these four years go by way too fast. To a first-year student, enjoy it all as much as you can. Branch out and try things that you wouldn’t usually try, whether it’s joining a new club, or saying ‘yes’ to an opportunity that might be intimidating or nerve-racking. Also, find a solid, quiet study spot; my favorite was Lilley Library

After her graduation in May, Angela has accepted a job in the PNC Finance and Accounting Development Program in Pittsburgh.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Jimmy Landy (Nursing)

Published on by Behrend BlogLeave a comment

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 Jimmy Landy.  

SS23JimmyLandy1

Major: Nursing

Hometown: State College, Pennsylvania

On choosing Behrend: I chose Penn State Behrend because it is a smaller, more intimate campus. On top of that, the natural beauty of the school really drew me in. Both the campus architecture and natural surroundings (like Wintergreen Gorge) made me love coming to campus every day.

On choosing his major: I became interested in a health profession in high school when I took a course to become a nurse aide. I originally wanted to become a doctor, but after working as a nurse aide, I learned nurses had an even greater connection to the patient.

Campus involvement: I am the executive vice president of Lion Ambassadors. I have also been involved with the Student Nurses’ Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP), Behrend Honors program, and Scrubs Club. I also am a lead tutor with the Learning Resource Center (LRC) and a Lion Scout tour leader for admissions.

Awards: I received two awards in my junior year,  Outstanding Tutor of Science for my work leading group reviews for nursing classes with the LRC, and the Irvin H. Kochel Lion Ambassador award for my dedication to the Lion Ambassadors club.

What makes him unique: I believe I’m a talented writer. One day, I hope to publish a book series. I am passionate about my writing; I could talk about it for hours and hours.

A champion for children: Ever since I started working with kids when I was 16, I have been astonished that another person could harm a child. This was one of the driving factors in my decision to focus on pediatric emergency nursing. I want to be on the front lines of helping to protect children.

Advice for first-year students: I would tell a new student to take advantage of all the resources we have to offer. Our school has free tutoring, exploratory services for undecided students, and career services that all help you excel in class and help you to find where you belong. I would also encourage students to make meaningful connections with their professors, speak up in class, go to office hours, and never be afraid to ask for help.

With a little help from his friends: It would be hard to pick a favorite memory from my time at Behrend, but looking back, I know that I could never have done it without my best friends and study buddies, Lauren Teresi and Lexie Parker. Any time we are together there’s a 25 percent chance of studying and a 75 percent chance we’re going to tell stories, make each other laugh, and get nothing done. Even though we may not have been the most productive when we were together, the support we offered each other was invaluable.

After his graduation in May, Jimmy plans on working in a pediatric emergency room. One day, he hopes to return to school to become a nurse practitioner and possibly teach.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Erin Mooney (ARTSA, DIGIT)

Published on by Behrend BlogLeave a comment

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 Erin Mooney.

erin mooney2

Majors: Dual majoring in Arts Administration and Digital Media, Arts and Technology

Minor: French

Hometown: North East, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: Erie Insurance Open Doors Scholarship, McCain Family Foundation Trustee Scholarship, Ethel and Irvin Kochel Scholarship for International Study, Jim and Lynn Levinson Memorial Scholarship for Behrend’s Educational Partnership Program, John K. Henne Endowment for Internal Study, Internal Scholarship, Addison Gibson Foundation, Nancy J. Anderson Trustee Scholarship, NTIP(IB)-Edu Abroad.

On choosing her major: I chose my majors because arts and media are things that I am passionate about.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Graduating with two majors. Despite the many difficulties life has thrown at me during my college career, I persevered and made it.

Farm to campus: I lived on a farm while attending school and did not have a lot of spare time for extracurricular activities.

What makes her unique: I think my mind works differently than most. I am very creative, and I like to apply that to whatever I am working on. It makes assignments and work more interesting when I can add some of my own twists.

What you’d be surprised to know about her: I have quite a few health issues that cause me a lot of pain each day. From chronic illnesses to injuries from an accident, I have been through the wringer. However, I work hard to make each day worth the effort!

What constitutes a good life for her: Doing what brings you happiness and trying to share that joy with others.

Her passions: I love color theory and making art. Also, “world building,” everything from storytelling to character-building.

Advice for first-year students: There are a lot of college resources, from the commuter lounge to the Personal Counseling Center to the Learning Resource Center where you can get tutoring. If you are struggling with anything, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

After her graduation in May, Erin plans to look for work in a field that aligns with her majors.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Chase Schultz (Mechanical Engineering)

Published on by Behrend BlogLeave a comment

Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 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 several weeks, 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 Chase Schultz.

chase-shultz

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Edinboro, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: Erie Insurance Open Doors Scholarship; Moyer Trustee Scholarship; Arloween Zurn Todd Leadership Scholarship; Jim and Lynn Levinson Memorial Scholarship for Penn State Behrend’s Educational Partnership Program; ASM International Northwestern Pennsylvania Chapter Scholarship; and Ryan E. Knoll Open Doors Scholarship

On choosing his major: Mechanical Engineering is very broad, and I knew I would have a lot of opportunities in many different industries.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Participating in the Steel Founders’ Society of America (SFSA) Cast in Steel competition twice, creating a sword and a spear. These two projects were done through the Materials and Manufacturing Group (MMG) club. We handled all aspects of creating a new Celtic Leaf sword and an African spear point, exploiting the casting manufacturing process from design conception to performance.

Campus involvement: I’m the president of the Outdoors Club and treasurer of the Materials and Manufacturing Group.

His definition of living a good life: Working hard, playing hard, and loving even harder.

Passion project: In 2017, a friend and I started a brand called flowdaddyfishing. We have an Instagram page to promote hunting, fishing, and making the most of every day.

Advice for first-year students: Get your priorities straight and go after what you want. Make friends who are smarter than you are. Find some healthy hobbies. Work hard and accept that college, and any career path, is going to be difficult. Without the struggle, there will be no reward.

Have job, will travel: I’m looking forward to my job at ExxonMobil. I will have the opportunity to travel domestically and internationally to both inland and offshore well site locations on a rotational schedule.

Chase has accepted a position as a well operations supervisor with ExxonMobil following his graduation in May.

Standout Senior’s ’23: Meet Carly Evans (Marketing)

Published on by Behrend BlogLeave a comment

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 Carly Evans: 

carly Evans

Major: Marketing

Minor: Communication Arts and Mass Media

Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

On choosing Behrend: I chose Behrend because of the Black School of Business and the Penn State network of resources. Also, I like that you are not just a number here and are able to build strong connections with professors and staff.

On choosing her major: I chose Marketing because it’s versatile. From content creation and social media marketing to analytics and search engine optimization, there is something for everyone. I have always enjoyed the creative aspects of marketing and how a career in the field can look different each day.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: In my junior year advertising class, we partnered with professors in the School of Science and Erie Brewing Company to create an integrated marketing campaign for a new aquatic invasive species draft series. Partnering with Pennsylvania Sea Grant, we created the campaign to raise awareness about these local invasive creatures. I worked on the creative team, developing graphics for the campaign using Adobe Illustrator. This project allowed me to use my graphic design skills and gave me an idea of what it is like to create real marketing materials. It was gratifying to see something I worked on come to life for a local business.

Campus involvement: I am a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority. I have held several leadership positions in our chapter over the years.

Her definition of living a good life: Being somewhere warm and sunny, surrounded by my family and friends and my cat, Daisy. I think that living a fulfilling life is prioritizing self-care but giving that same energy back to the important people in your life. Making a difference in the lives of others starts with you.

Her passions: In my free time, you can find me on the golf course, creating art, or seeking out a new coffee spot. I’m a pretty go-with-the-flow person, so I’m always down to try something new.

Advice for first-year students: Use your resources and don’t be afraid to ask for help. College can be overwhelming at times. Keeping an organized planner has helped me keep track of my schedules, class assignments, and extracurriculars. Also, get involved. Being a part of a club or organization can greatly develop your leadership and problem-solving skills and your confidence.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Matt Strupczewski (Political Science and Marketing)

Published on by Behrend BlogLeave a comment

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 Matt Strupczewski: 

MatthewStrupczewski

Majors: Dual majoring in Political Science and Marketing

Minor: Military Studies

Hometown: Erie

Scholarships: Merwin Trustee Matching Scholarship, Irving Kochel Leadership Scholarship, Penn State Academic Grant, Zachary T. Irwin Humanitarian Award

On choosing Behrend: I knew I had to put myself through school, so I was looking for the most cost-effective option. Behrend was by far the best value. It allowed me to live at home to save even more money and still earn a Penn State degree, which opens the door to many career and continuing education opportunities.

On choosing his major: I am intrigued by the world of politics and hope to run for office myself one day. Marketing came naturally to me as I have always been business-minded. Dual majoring allowed me to draw the two together. I believe if I can market a product, I can market myself, and vice versa.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Becoming president of the Student Government Association. This position has allowed me to do so much to improve services and activities, and even support faculty needs on our campus. The ability to make real change and help our community has been the most fulfilling opportunity I have been able to take part in.

Campus involvement: I’m a member of the Lion Ambassadors, Penn State Army ROTC, and College Republicans.

What makes him unique: I think I have a high level of charisma. When it comes to sales, management, and even leadership situations, I am able to work well with a lot of people. I think this will help me in my career and personal life, as it is an important social skill in today’s world.

What you’d be surprise to know about him: I am only 21, but I am married and have already bought my first house. This was all while I went to school, averaging about 25 credits per semester and working, too.

What makes a good life: Finding your sense of fulfillment. There is no one way to live a good life. For me, it is a happy medium of having a job I enjoy with a good work-life balance.

A future full of options: I often think of new ways to apply my skills but have a hard time narrowing down which one to pursue. Do I get a graduate degree? Make an early run for a local election? Continue furthering my career as a real estate agent? This year has been a very introspective year for me, as I have been doing a deeper dive into the question, “What is my why?”

Passionate about public service: I love finding a way to use my skills to help people. With the skills I have developed here at Behrend, especially with my Student Government Association experience, I can’t wait to become an elected official. No matter what level office they hold, elected officials have the power and ability to make their community a better place. Today, it feels that too many of our officials are more concerned with reelection or serving themselves than with working to make things better.

Advice for first-year students: My younger self would have suggested students work as much as they can outside of school, but I now feel it is important to find a healthy middle ground. Of course, prioritize school, but work and social time should also be included for your own mental health and enjoyment of life.

From graduation to service: I am currently in the National Guard and will be commissioned as a second lieutenant in May. I have learned a lot in the guard and appreciate how it has helped me develop and mature, personally.

After his graduation in May, Matt plans to continue serving in the National Guard while pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree at Behrend. In the future, he plans to run for political office.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Lydia Glenn (English)

Published on by Behrend Blog1 Comment

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 Lydia Glenn:

IMG_2463.JPG

Major: English

Minor: Biology

Hometown: Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania

Connecting at Behrend: I chose Behrend because of its small classes and its convenient location. I value relationships with professors, and Behrend’s size allows for more student-professor connections. The relationships with my professors have created several opportunities for me in furthering my education and career.

On choosing her major: I chose English with a focus in professional writing because I have a love of research and writing. Editing and writing, whether professionally or technically, are my areas of expertise, So I decided to utilize my skills and find a career that fits me.

Sharing her skills: One of my proudest accomplishments at Behrend was teaching Italian water polo players English. The players were taking part in a summer camp on campus, and it was such a rewarding experience. I was able to use my knowledge of the English language to teach them conversation and phrases for social settings.

Campus involvement: I am a Humanities and Social Sciences Ambassador, tutor at the LRC, and was news editor of the Behrend Beacon last year.

Interdisciplinary interests: One thing that makes me unique is my love of both the humanities and the sciences. I love English, writing, and reading literature, but I also love biology and the research that comes with it. My knowledge of both English and biology makes me a person who can type a grammatically and thematically accurate scientific paper.

She loves language and animals: People might be surprised to know that I own three ferrets. During my internship at the Erie Zoo, I fell in love with the ferrets. After that, I started rescuing them from local shelters. Of course, I started with just one, but then two more needed homes.

Her definition of living a good life: I think a good life is finding something you’re passionate about and turning it into a career. I also believe that everyone should strive to make the world a better place and should use their brains and individual skills for good. A good life is made of selfless acts.

What’s next: My highest priority for the next few years is to obtain a master’s degree and find a job in the field of publishing and/or writing.

What fires her up: I am passionate about reading and writing first and foremost. I am also passionate about certain political movements like women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental activism. I am also passionate about animals, and I urge everyone looking to own a pet to adopt from local shelters.

Advice for first year students: Go to counseling. I am a firm believer that everyone needs someone to talk to. Counseling at Penn State Behrend is free, so why not utilize their services while you are here?

After her graduation in May, Lydia plans to attend graduate school at Carnegie Mellon University.