Category: Standout Seniors 2018

Standout Seniors: Meet Alec Hydock

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By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 couple months, 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 Alec Hydock:

Alec Hydock

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: I was honored to receive the Robert F. Taft Endowed scholarship.

On choosing Behrend: I chose Penn State Behrend because it has small class sizes that allow you to get to know the professor and the professor to get to know you.

Curiosity build the engineer: As a kid, I was always curious about how things worked, from why planes fly to how car engines work. This curiosity is what pushed me toward mechanical engineering.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend? Being on a senior design team that was selected for a project sponsored by the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. I knew we had a strong group, but it was humbling to be selected to work on such an important project.

Campus involvement: I was involved in the student chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers as well as the Tau Beta Pi engineering honor society. I was also involved with a research team that helped design a braille device.

What you’d be surprised to know about him: I have a twin.

Car enthusiast: I’ve always been passionate about cars. I enjoy seeing the advancements manufacturers have made in cars from new structural designs that improve how cars hold up in accidents to advancements in drivetrains that can increase both performance and economy.

Advice for new students: Don’t forget to take some time for yourself. It is easy to get caught up in all the homework, projects, and exams that you may get burned out. Get friends together to go to the gym, play pickup games, or even just set aside one evening in the week to hang out and do something fun.

After his graduation in May, Alec plans to pursue a career as an engineer in the automotive or defense fields.

Standout Seniors: Meet Katharina Becker

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By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 couple months, 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 Katharina Becker:

Katharina Becker - first choice

Majors: Concurrent majors in Marketing and International Business

Minor: Chemistry

Hometown: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Scholarships: I received the Edward P. and Barbara F. Junker Leadership Scholarship and the Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, Alumni Scholarship.

On choosing Behrend: Behrend was the perfect size for me: small enough to feel homey, but big enough that I see and meet new people every day. Also, the campus is gorgeous and clean, and the people are friendly and inclusive.

On choosing her majors: Marketing challenges my creativity. It also calls for one to be organized, fun, fast-paced, and trendy. I chose International Business because we live in an increasingly global business world, and I love to travel.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: I was the vice president of the Relay for Life Club this year and we hosted a joint event with Mercyhurst University’s Relay for Life Club. We had more than 100 people attend our event and raised $7,300. I am immensely proud of the Relay members and all the organizing, advertising, and networking that contributed to the success of the event.

Campus involvement: I was a Lion Scout (tour guide) from the summer of my first year until my senior year. I was involved with Reality Check and traveled on the Alternative Spring Break trip to Dallas, Texas. I was involved in BVZ Radio and hosted my own show called “Zona de Calma” in my sophomore year. I studied abroad in Maastricht, Netherlands, for six weeks. I was also involved in the Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) club.

Advice for new students: I came to college assuming I had to choose only one subject to focus on that I was most passionate about. This was stressful because I have a variety of interests. I would advise incoming first-year students to diversify their schedule by pursuing a second major, a minor, or certificates.

Following her graduation in May, Katharina plans to work for a global digital marketing agency.

 

Standout Seniors: Meet Kelly Miller

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By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 couple months, 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 Kelly Miller:

Kelly Miller (2)

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Louisville, Ohio

On choosing Penn State Behrend: I like the size of Behrend and the fact that no matter where you go on campus, you can always find someone you know.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: I danced in THON 2017 and it was so empowering to see the impact so many Penn State students have on the life of a child and their family! Standing for forty-six hours was the best weekend of my life.

Campus involvement: I’m a member of Gamma Sigma Sigma service sorority, Behrend Benefiting THON, the women’s tennis team, and The Outreach Program for Soccer (TOPS). I’ve also participated in undergraduate research and Alternative Spring Break.

From Pennsylvania to Hawaii: My junior year, I was able to present research at the Electrochemical Society conference in Honolulu, Hawaii, with Dr. Adam Hollinger, assistant professor of mechanical engineering.

Following her graduation in May, Kelly has accepted a position as an associate product engineer at Newell Brands in North Carolina.

 

Standout Seniors: Meet Jon Schrecengost

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By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 couple months, 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 Jon Schrecengost:

Jonathon Schrecengost (2)

Jonathon Schrecengost

Major: Physics

Minors: Chemistry, Astrophysics, Computer Science, and Mathematics

Hometown: Greensburg, Pennsylvania

On working with faculty members: Behrend has faculty members who go out of their way to help you succeed, in the classroom and through research. The small class sizes at Behrend allow you to have a lot of really meaningful and personal interactions with faculty members.

On majoring in Physics: It’s a versatile major. Physics requires you to develop excellent learning and problem-solving abilities, and it gives you a strong understanding of the fundamentals that are used in other science and engineering disciplines. It’s not uncommon to find physics graduates in many different career paths.

Seeing the light: I’ve done research work with Dr. Bruce Wittmershaus, associate professor of physics, for three years. I’ve been helping him to improve his luminescent solar concentrators. These devices use fluorescent materials to redirect sunlight onto solar cells and produce an electric current. I’ve grown a lot as a researcher and I’ve been fortunate to submit a manuscript for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. It’s also the topic of my Schreyer Honors thesis.

On being a teaching assistant: I enjoyed the opportunity to gain teaching experience as a teaching assistant for the college’s introductory physics courses. I learned that teaching material to others is the most effective way to truly understand course material yourself.

Who inspires him: Elon Musk

Advice for new students: Start doing research work with a faculty member as soon as possible. Don’t be shy about reaching out to them because they are very willing to help you and share their experiences with you.

Following his graduation in May, Jonathon plans to attend graduate school.

 

Standout Seniors: Demetrius Green

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By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 couple months, 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 Demetrius Green:
Demetrius green - best shot

Demetrius Green

Major: Digital Media, Arts, and Technology

Minor: Management Information Systems

Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: Council of Fellows Leadership Scholarship

On choosing Behrend: I liked the location because it wasn’t too far or too close to home. I also love big bodies of water, and Lake Erie is beautiful.

On choosing his major: I wanted to bridge the gap between creativity and technology. I have a background in communications, so I wanted to continue that, while adding technology to my expertise.

Campus involvement: I am historian for the Behrend chapter of the Association of Black Collegians. I’m also a member of the Organization of African and Caribbean Students, and the Multi-Cultural Council.

What you’d be surprised to know about him: I love to sing, all day. It starts to annoy people after a while.

Confidence counts: My definition of living a good life is being so confident and carefree that if you wanted to, you could walk into Walmart singing your favorite song at the top of your lungs, and not care who is watching or who can hear you.

On a life of service: I’m passionate about helping others. My motto is: If I can, I will. I love to put a smile on another person’s face.

What inspires him: My future inspires me. I’ve been waiting for this moment for years, and I’m excited to start seeing things come to fruition. I know there are great things waiting for me, and I just have to keep working and be diligent in pursuing those things.

Advice for new students: Check in with your adviser. Get involved. Leave the campus and explore Erie and Presque Isle. Ask questions.

After his graduation in May, Demetrius plans to start his career as an MIS technology professional.

 

Standout Seniors: Meet Anthony Walker

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By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 couple months, 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 Anthony Walker:

Anthony Walker

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Minor: Computer Science

Hometown: Carmichaels, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: I have received the Frank S. Palkovic Trustee Scholarship.

On choosing to major in Mechanical Engineering: I have always been interested in the STEM fields. Mechanical Engineering seemed to be the broadest major that would allow me to have the most options in the field of engineering.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Writing an angle optimization code for an aerodynamics project.

What makes him unique: Most students in my major don’t love computer science, but I enjoy it so much that I decided to minor in it. I have even taken on personal projects outside of academia that involve computer science.

Who inspires him: Dr. Amir Danesh-Yazdi, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, puts a tremendous amount of effort into his teaching. His classes have pushed me to do more and inspired my interest in computer science. I’m also inspired by my mother, father, stepfather, and Edward Maison, who has been my closest friend for nearly a decade and supports all of my endeavors.

After his graduation in May, Anthony plans to work in his field and eventually obtain his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering.

Standout Seniors: Meet Brittni Merenick

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By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 couple months, 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 Brittni Merenick:

brittani merenick1

Major: Elementary and Early Childhood Education

Hometown: Warren, Pennsylvania

On choosing Behrend: When I was growing up, I often came to Behrend for basketball camps and fell in love with the campus. Once I did an official college tour, I knew I wanted to attend Behrend.

On choosing her major: I love working with children. It may sound cliché, but I really want to make an impact on my students’ lives. I like that I get to teach my students something new every day. The great thing is that while I’m teaching them, I am also learning and growing professionally.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Earning a 4.0 GPA two semesters in a row while taking 15 credits and working sixteen-hour weeks. This was on top of field placements, trying to have a social life, and sleeping!

Campus involvement: I was a member of the Student Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) and served as president of the club last year and as a representative on the regional Political Action Committee for Education. I also participated in the PennLake National Writing Project.

What you would be surprised to know about her: I have a fraternal twin sister, but most people say my younger sister and I look more like twins.

Advice for new students: Enjoy your college experience while you can because it is over quicker than you can imagine. Make new friends, and don’t be afraid to try new things.

After her graduation in May, Brittni hopes to find a teaching position in Pennsylvania. She plans to begin working on a graduate degree in the fall as well.

 

 

 

Standout Seniors: Meet Dylan Langharst

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By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 couple months, 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 Dylan Langharst:

Dylan Langharst

Majors: Concurrent majors in Physics and Mathematics

Minors: Concurrent minors in Astronomy and Political Science

Hometown: Sarver, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: I’ve received the Anonymous Friend Trustee Fund Scholarship multiple times, a School of Science scholarship, the Lake Erie Trustee Scholarship at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, the McMannis Educational Trust Fund Scholarship, and the Dr. and Mrs. Arthur W. Phillips Scholarship for Schreyer Scholars.

On choosing his majors: In high school, I was really interested in understanding the physical world and decided to major in physics. However, during my time here at Behrend, I fell in love with mathematics, due in part to the faculty members in the department.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: I studied abroad in Germany during the summer of 2015, and during the summer of 2017, I was employed by the Department of Energy doing quantum computing. However, these are not my proudest accomplishments. My proudest accomplishment is when I was contacted by one of the students I tutored/taught through the Learning Resource Center who said that, without my help, he wouldn’t have passed Physics 211 or had such a solid start for Physics 212. This was my proudest moment.

Campus involvement: President of the Physics Club, vice president of the Math Club, and vice president of Behrend’s branch of Pi Mu Epsilon, the national math honor society.

Hidden talent: I am almost fluent in German.

What you would be surprised to know about him: I have a big interest in history, especially medieval history. I almost majored in history instead of physics.

Who inspires him: Faculty members inspire me, especially Dr. Chuck Yeung, Dr. Blair Tuttle, Dr. Darren Williams, Dr. Bruce Wittmershaus, Paul Becker, Dr. Antonella Cupillari, Dr. Daniel Galiffa and Dr. Amos Ong. They are always willing to answer any questions I have, even if my questions have nothing to do with material we are learning in class. Also, Dr. John Gamble, distinguished professor of political science and international law, who has been a life mentor since I started college.

Advice for new students: Pick a field of study that you genuinely enjoy learning about or classes will be difficult.

After his graduation in December, Dylan plans to attend graduate school for a master’s degree in mathematics. He then wants to obtain a Ph.D. and, eventually, teach at the college level.

 

Standout Seniors: Meet Angelia Clear

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By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 couple months, 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 Angelia Clear:

Angelia Clear.jpg

Majors: Concurrent major in Marketing and International Business

Hometown: Lower Burrell, Pennsylvania

On choosing her majors: I love the international aspect of business, but marketing is so versatile and interesting to me, so I decided to dual major.

Scholarships: I received the Presidential Scholarship, the Addison Gibson Foundation Grant, and the John K. Henne Scholarship for International Study.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend? Receiving and accepting an invitation to join Beta Gamma Sigma, an academic honor society, while balancing a heavy course load and working full time.

Campus involvement: I have attended the School of Business spring business trips and I am a Black School of Business Ambassador. I am very involved in the Marketing Club and also enjoy playing intramural soccer when I can. I’ve studied abroad and I am a member of Beta Gamma Sigma.

Multitasking master: I am someone who has to have a lot of things going on all the time. I enjoy managing my time and being busy!

What you’d be surprised to know about her: I am a very observant person who can be shy at first, but I honestly enjoy learning about different people and cultures and immersing myself in new experiences.

Advice for new students: Time management is huge in college. Students need to get organized from the beginning because it is easy to fall behind. Also, get involved and do things that you really enjoy. College is not just about academics; it is about you. You get out of it what you put into it.

Following her graduation in May, Angelia plans to start her career in business.

 

 

 

Standout Seniors: Meet Derek Shaffer

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By Heather Cass
Publications Manager, Office of Strategic Communications,  Penn State Behrend

Penn State Behrend’s class of 2018 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 couple months, 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 Derek Shaffer:

derek shaffer in uniform cropped

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Stoneboro, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: I received The DeFrees Family Foundation Scholarship for Schreyer Scholars and Honors Students for all four years that I have been at Behrend. I have a lot of gratitude toward the donors. Without scholarship help, managing the monetary burden of college would be difficult.

On choosing Behrend: I chose Penn State Behrend because of its size, which is small enough to offer personal connections with professors. In addition, undergraduate student researchers are in high demand here by faculty members.

On choosing to major in Mechanical Engineering: I chose my major for its versatility. A person with a mechanical engineering background can go into material science, aerospace, architecture, design, research, manufacturing, and many other fields. I also find it interesting to study the similarities and differences at the crossroads of these fields.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: I’m proud of the amount of work I have been able to accomplish while still experiencing the best parts of college. I was on the college’s club hockey team for my entire college career while still maintaining a 4.0 grade-point average and publishing multiple journal and conference papers through my manufacturing research.

Campus involvement: I have been a member of the club hockey team my entire college career. We are part of the American Club Hockey Association, which includes teams from universities across the country. These teams are then broken into conferences just like NCAA sports. Our teams practice whenever they can get ice, which often means 6:00 a.m. or midnight, play games on the weekends instead of going out, and have GPA and credit requirements just like varsity athletes.

On goaltending: Not many people are fond of the idea of being hit with frozen rubber, but I find it fun.

Who inspires him: My parents and my girlfriend of six years inspire me the most. They are the hardest working and most caring people I have ever met. My mother is a nurse, my dad is a police officer, and my girlfriend is a physician assistant. These three people have shown me the importance of living a full life and enjoying time with your family and friends.

Advice for new students: Don’t rush into picking a major or worry too much about what you’ll do for a career. It will come to you naturally as you gain more time and experience with different fields. Figuring out what type of person you want to be and leaving your options open are more important.

After his graduation in May, Derek plans to attend graduate school. In the future, he hopes to do high-level research and design, preferably in the aerospace industry.

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 Derek and his fiancé, Jazmyne Sasse.

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