Category: School of Business

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Zoe Mouchantaf (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 Zoe Mouchantaf.  

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Major: Industrial Engineering

Minor: Operations and Supply Chain Management

Hometown: Beirut, Lebanon

Scholarships: Leadership Scholarship

On choosing Behrend: I chose Behrend because of the student-to-professor ratio. I believe that having a close relationship with faculty and staff creates more opportunities for students and helps them thrive during their college career.

On choosing her major: I chose my major because it is broad. I am not sure what industry I want to work in after college, and this major allows me to apply my knowledge to most industries.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: I am proud to be the president of the Multi-Cultural Council at Penn State Behrend. I love to spread the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus and create an environment where everyone feels welcome. Moreover, I am also proud of the fact that I was selected to be the student speaker during the scholarship luncheon.

Campus involvement: I am the president of the Multi-Cultural Council, a Global Ambassador, part of the Behrend Schreyer Scholars Council, a peer tutor, a teaching assistant, and a research assistant.

Awards and recognitions: I was nominated as a Penn State emerging leader. I entered a Google competition and was selected as a Google Scholar. Finally, I received the President’s Freshman Award.

What you might be surprised to know about her: I speak three languages and one dialect.

Her definition of living a good life: Living a good life means living in the moment, not worrying about the future, or thinking about the past.

Her top priority: I want to focus on my career and then obtain an MBA from MIT or Harvard.

Her passions: My goal in life is to create a positive impact on all the people who I encounter. I am passionate about motivating people and encouraging youth to earn a good education.

Advice for first-year students: Time flies by. Don’t waste your time—get an internship, do a research project, and get involved in clubs. It’s never too late to start thinking about post-graduation plans.

After graduation, Zoe will be working as a consultant at McKinsey & Company, a global management consulting firm.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Shannon Miller (Finance and IBE)

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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 Shannon Miller.

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Majors: Interdisciplinary Business with Engineering Studies (IBE) and Finance

Hometown: Erie, Pennsylvania

Why she chose Behrend: I liked the smaller class sizes and their programs.

On choosing her major: I enjoy problem solving and analysis, and both of my majors encompass these attributes.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Being a part of the Beta Gamma Sigma Honors Program.

Campus involvement: Learning Resource Center tutor, CFA Research Challenge team member

Awards: The Black School of Business Writing Award

What makes her unique: I ride horses, and I can sing.

Her definition of living a good life: Being happy with what I am doing in life and doing something new every day.

Advice for first-year students: Make the most of your time at Behrend and make connections with professors because they will help you succeed.

After graduation, Shannon plans to find work in her field. 

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 Angela Belack (Accounting and Finance)

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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 Angela Belack.

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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.

Back to (Spring) Business Trip: Students Visit Pittsburgh Businesses and Firms

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By Heather Cass, Publications Manager

Office of Strategic Communication, Penn State Behrend

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After a three-year hiatus, Penn State Behrend’s Black School of Business reintroduced its annual spring trip for students in March. More than forty Behrend business students, including Finance majors studying through World Campus, traveled to Pittsburgh for two days of company visits and networking opportunities.

The group toured Schneider Downs, an accounting, tax, and business advisory firm, and the investment banking firm of BNY Mellon together, and major-specific breakout sessions were also offered. For example, Marketing majors toured the marketing agency, Brunner;  Finance and Business Economics majors visited Waldron Private Wealth, and Accounting and Management Information Systems majors went to the accounting, tax, and advisory firm of BDO.  Company visits included tours, presentations on the business and industry, and time for questions.

One notable session was held at the Pittsburgh Penguins office where Marketing and Project and Supply Chain majors got a firsthand look at how a top sports franchise operates, from ticket and retail sales to social media and game-day operations.

The students also had the opportunity to interact and network with Black School of Business alumni at a gathering at the Rivers Club in downtown Pittsburgh.

Students who participated in the spring trip described it as a valuable and enlightening experience.

  • “It’s a great chance to meet alumni and both establish and strengthen relationships so that when it comes time to search for a job, you have a robust network to contact,” Tristan Leopold, a junior Finance major, said.
  • “The trip provides an opportunity to see businesses through an insider’s eyes and gives you the chance to form connections and hone networking skills. It is well worth the cost and time to attend,” Anita Laughner, a junior World Campus Finance major, said.
  • “I liked hearing advice from employees about entering the business workforce. I also enjoyed networking with Behrend alumni. It was a fun experience,” Ella Cuccaro, a junior Project and Supply Chain Management major, said.
  • “I would definitely recommend this trip to any student who wants to broaden their contact list, meet young professionals, and learn what will be expected of them in their first years on the job. It provided a lot of insight into what it will be like day-to-day,” Keara Mollenauer, a senior dual majoring in Accounting and Management Information Systems, said.
  • “It was a great networking experience that provides students with the opportunity to get their foot in the door for prospective job opportunities. It was very well organized and thought out. If you’re a business student, this trip is a must,” Zane Lewis, a first-year student dual majoring in Accounting and Finance, said.

Plans are already underway for the spring 2024 trip with the destination city to be announced in the fall.

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

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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 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)

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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 Matt Strupczewski: 

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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 Seth Myers (IBE and PSCM)

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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 Seth Myers:

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Major: Dual majoring in Interdisciplinary Business with Engineering Studies and Project and Supply Chain Management

Hometown: Erie

Scholarships: Bunton-Waller Scholarship and CMI EPTI Trustee Scholarship

On choosing Behrend: I chose Behrend because it has great engineering and business programs. Also, I had the opportunity to continue my athletic career and play basketball for the Behrend Lions.

On choosing his major: IBE is a unique major offered by only a few colleges in the country. I felt I would be well-rounded with a foundation in engineering and business, and it would give me a lot of career options.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Maintaining a solid grade point average (3.8) while double majoring and playing on the men’s basketball team for four years.

Awards and honors: Inducted into the Chi Alpha Sigma National College Athletic Honor Society and Academic All-AMCC

His definition of living a good life: Enjoying what you do while having a positive impact on others in some way or another.

What he is passionate about: My faith, family, and friends.

Advice he would give to a first-year student: Enjoy your time and experiences here–and get your work done early.

After his graduation in May, Seth will work at Wabtec Corporation in the LEAD Operations rotational program.

Business Etiquette Still Matters in 2023

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By Hope Robbins

Contributing Writer

If you want to stand out in the corporate world, brush up on your business etiquette.

“It will be the skill that sets people apart in the professional world,” said Eric Robbins, associate teaching professor of finance and associate director of corporate outreach and research for Penn State Behrend’s Black School of Business. “The people who will rise to the surface are those with good soft skills for virtual meetings, email communications, and in-person interactions.”

That’s why, Robbins, with help from Phil Stuczynski, assistant teaching professor of finance, and Carol Peterson, co-curricular programs coordinator, put together “Make the Fork Be With You,” a business etiquette dinner that included a presentation on the importance of professional etiquette and communication.

Speakers at the event were George Emanuele, senior director of Global Investments for BNY Mellon, and Ann Scott, community outreach manager for Erie Insurance. Thirty Behrend students attended as well as sixteen alumni who were invited to network with the students.

According to Emanuele, it isn’t a question of whether or not you need business etiquette; it’s something that should innately encompass 100 percent of your job. He stressed the importance of many daily factors in business etiquette, such as the “sundown rule,” (that is, responding to emails within 24 hours).

Scott also talked about the maintenance of etiquette and how unprincipled table manners can distract from the subject of a company dinner. Everything that you do (for example, writing emails, wearing professional attire, and behaving appropriately at networking events and business lunches) is a representation of your employer.

If you don’t raise yourself to meet that professional bar, metaphorically speaking, Emanuele stated, “You’ll be stuck in a back-office position, and you will never see a front-end client.” For anyone seeking to rise in the ranks of the company they are a part of, this poses a professional risk and should be a call to action.

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Why is the concept of behaving respectfully and engagingly in a professional environment becoming harder for the younger generation to understand? Scott said she thinks it is a byproduct of emerging from COVID-19.

“A lot of people haven’t been able to utilize their interpersonal skills in person,” Scott said, which inspires “a lack of confidence among the younger generation.” Making a phone call, for example, may seem more intimidating than sending an email or communicating online.

One of Scott’s pet peeves is seeing people at networking events gathered in groups with others they already know rather than fulfilling the purpose of being there: networking, or as she calls it, “making new friends!”

Emanuele and Robbins both say that business etiquette is becoming a lost art and there is a contentious device (literally) behind the decline in professionalism: cell phones. According to Robbins, a new generation of employees has become accustomed to “short bursts of unprofessional communication that are typed rather than spoken” via texting and online posting. This has led to a decline in professional phrasing, creating a causal conversation style that is less than business appropriate.

Another reason business etiquette skills may be less common today? Scott said it might be a lack of practice with in-person communication, a byproduct of COVID. And along with becoming accustomed to more casual conversation, our sense of personal presentation has adjusted into a more comfortable routine.

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While there are many nuances to business etiquette, Scott summed it up with a single rule to thumb: “The basics of etiquette is to make other people feel comfortable and confident.” The only way to succeed in this is to make yourself comfortable and confident in any professional situation.

Hope Robbins is a junior majoring in Digital Multimedia Design at Penn State World Campus.

10 takeaways from “Make the Fork Be With You”

  • Do not overshare or make the conversation all about you.
    • Find common ground when networking – vacations, hobbies, etc. Have a list of conversation starters.
  • Introduce and include others in conversation.
  • Stay positive – Do not complain or talk about co-workers.
  • Follow the lead of your host (in choosing your meal based on price, whether or not to order an alcoholic drink, and where you’re seated).
  • If seated, introduce yourself to everyone at the table.
  • Look for ways to give, help, share in a conversation.
  • Demonstrate good table manners – Avoid ordering “messy” foods, eating too quickly, and putting your napkin on your chair if you leave it.
  • Respect everyone, including the staff serving you.
  • Follow up after the event, reference something specific from your conversation.

Standout Seniors: Meet Breanna McClain (Marketing)

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Penn State Behrend’s class of 2022 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 Breanna McClain. 

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Major: Marketing

Minor: Communication Arts and Mass Media

Certificates:  Public Relations and Advertising

Hometown: Columbus, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: Joseph Defrees Scholarship

On choosing Behrend: I knew coming to a smaller campus would increase the possibility of having a positive relationship with my professors. I wanted to be known by name, not just be one of a number of students in a program.

On choosing her major: I chose my major because marketing is the creative side of business. I’ve always been a creative person, and I wanted to use these gifts to help advertise products, services, or events.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: My proudest accomplishment has been my ability to increase my GPA every semester. I have continued to improve academically, and I am very proud of my dedication to continue to do better.

Campus involvement: I am the Vice President of Advertising in the American Marketing Association Club and am a Business Ambassador. I also was a part of the concert band whenever my schedule would allow it. I play the tenor saxophone.

A really “wild” internship: I did an internship at the Erie Zoo where I helped with social media and event planning. I loved helping the zoo staff get ready for events and watching visitors enjoy them.  I got to have some cool interactions with the animals, and a lot of them recognized me by the end of my internship, which made me feel pretty special. I have some great photos with the zoo’s male orangutan, “Joe,” who recently passed away. I was really upset to hear that news and am glad to have made some memories with him.

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Awards and recognitions: I recently received the Outstanding Marketing Student Award, and I made the Dean’s List every semester.

What makes her unique: I have an eye for design. I can take information and make a visual that will better represent and communicate what needs to be shared.

Her definition of the good life: My definition of living a good life is to treat everyone with kindness. If I can make someone else’s day a little brighter, I am satisfied that I am living the best possible life I can.

Her passion: One of my passions is photography. I enjoy capturing the small things people might otherwise overlook. It has helped me see at the world differently because I used to miss these things like everyone else. Now, I take time to notice and appreciate things around me and want to help others do the same.

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Advice for first-year students: My advice would be not to get lost in the stress of the world. Life is easier if you can think of at least one good thing that happened in your day. If you can find that one good thing, it can completely change your outlook on life.

After graduation, Breanna plans to explore non-profit or for-profit organizational work in social media and event planning or pursue advertising work for a small marketing firm