Category: School of Humanities and Social Sciences

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.   

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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 Emily Clopp: 

Major: Psychology with a certificate in Child Development

Hometown: Canonsburg, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: John H. Devitt Scholarship

Finding a home at Behrend: I chose Behrend for many reasons. First, because I could earn a Penn State degree and the alumni base is massive. Behrend is also a beautiful campus and has a homey feel to it. Additionally, I wanted to play soccer, and I knew Behrend had a successful program with great coaches.

Why she chose her major: The brain has always fascinated me. I love its complexity. I knew majoring in psychology would give me the opportunity to learn more about the brain and the numerous disorders associated with it, as well as gain an understanding of why humans behave the way they do. It also provided a good foundation for graduate school, as a lot of the prerequisites are psychology courses like developmental psychology and abnormal psycholohy, both of which I loved.

Excelling on the field and in the classroom: From an academic standpoint, my proudest accomplishment has been maintaining a 4.0 grade point average while balancing work, school, social life, and soccer. From an athletic standpoint, my proudest moment would be winning the AMCC championship with my team in the 2021 season and competing in the NCAA tournament.

Campus involvement: Two-year captain of the women’s soccer team; group leader of Fellowship of Christian Athletes; volunteer in the TOPS soccer program; member of Psi Chi honor society and the Psychology club.

Awards and recognitions: President’s Freshman award, Chi Alpha Sigma Athletic Honors Society, Academic All-Conference every soccer season, Dean’s List every semester, Scholarship/Leadership Award from the team (voted on by teammates).

What you’d be surprised to know about her: I transferred to Behrend after my first year of college at the University of Akron where I played Division I soccer. In high school, I was a member of Team USA for dance/baton twirling. We competed in Lignano Sabbiadoro, Italy, where we won the World Championships. Finally, people would be surprised to know that I am very emotional and still tear up at most Disney movies, especially Monsters, Inc.

Passions at play: I am passionate about helping people. I especially love working with older adults and those with special needs, so I’m very excited about my future career. I also love soccer and hope to find an adult recreational league to play in.

Advice for first-year students: Be proactive and find a routine. Also, know that even when school get stressful and overwhelming, you will get through it. Finally, get involved as much as you can because having a support system makes college a lot easier.

Following her graduation in May, Emily plans to attend graduate school at the University of Pittsburgh to get a doctorate in occupational therapy. She hopes to specialize in neurology or work with those who have special needs.