Standout Seniors ’23: Ben Fahrney (Mechanical Engineering)  

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 is ready to make its mark on the world!-  We’re proud of our students and all that they have learned and accomplished here at Behrend. Over the next several weeks, we’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Ben Fahrney.   

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Major: Mechanical Engineering Major

Hometown: Lititz, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: Provost Scholarship as well as scholarships from the foundry industry

On choosing Behrend: I chose attend Penn State Behrend for its excellent integration of the business and engineering schools. I chose to stay at Behrend because of the professors. During my first year, one of my professors sat down with me for almost four hours to talk about what I wanted to get out of my experience there. This kind of personal interaction with professors is common at Behrend and exactly the reason I loved it here.

On choosing his major: Like most engineers, I have always loved learning how things work but, at Behrend, I really fell in love with the process. Seeing a project that you have been working on for months–and sometimes years–slowly come together is a truly rewarding experience and one I hope to continue pursuing in my professional career.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: One of my proudest accomplishments was completing an almost three-year-long research project (concerning the integration of additive manufacturing into the Pennsylvania investment casting industry to spur economic growth) and presenting my findings at various competitions, at major trade expos, and at several campus presentations. Working on a huge project like that and then presenting in front of more than 200 industry professionals is not where I would have seen my Behrend career going, but it has been an amazing experience.

Campus involvement: I have been on the executive board for the Materials and Manufacturing Group for all four of my years here at Behrend. I am also involved in the Rack ‘em Pool Club and Disc Golf Club and have been a Welcome Week volunteer twice. I have also worked in Innovation Commons, the college’s open ideation, product development, and prototyping center, for three years.

Awards and recognitions: I have been on the Dean’s List several times, won both first and second place in the engineering division at our annual Sigma Xi research competition, been the recipient of several metal casting scholarships from the foundry educational foundation (FEF), and won the Larry Blum Intern Scholarship, which allowed me to speak at the 68th annual technical conference for the Investment Casting Institute.

What makes him unique: When I first came to Behrend, I had almost no experience in the metal casting industry. I barely knew what the industry was. Since starting formal academic research during my first semester, I have become a highly regarded student in the field.  After four short years, I have had internships, competed in competitions, and spoken at conferences in the industry. I am an active member of the Foundry Educational Foundation, the Association for Iron and Steel Technology, and the Investment Casting Institute and frequently travel to their conferences and expos.

Top priority: I am excited to begin pursuing my professional career. I’m also looking forward to setting some roots down near my family and begin serving my community as a volunteer firefighter again.

Eager to help: I am most passionate about helping people in any way that I can. I enjoy talking with new and prospective students, making them feel welcome, and giving them the advice and guidance that was so helpful to me when I first came to Behrend.

Advice for first-year students: The best advice that I have for new students is to talk to people. Bugging my professors, people at job fairs, and even the maintenance staff at Behrend has afforded me more opportunities than I can count.

After his graduation in May, Ben has accepted a position as a systems integration and testing engineer in the rotary mission systems division of Lockheed Martin in New Jersey.

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Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Joseph Previte Jr. (Polymer Engineering and Science)  

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 is ready to make its mark on the world! We’re proud of our students and all that they have learned and accomplished here at Behrend. Over the next several weeks, we’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Joseph Previte Jr.

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Major: Polymer Engineering and Science (PES)

Hometown: Erie, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: I am a Penn State Schreyer Scholar.

Why Behrend? I chose Behrend because it was close to home and offered the degree that I was interested in.

On choosing his major: I chose the PES major because I love chemistry, and this new major is very chemistry-focused.

A trailblazer: My proudest accomplishment at Behrend is being one of the first two students to graduate from the brand-new PES major.

Campus involvement: I was a member of the Behrend Plastics club during my junior and senior years.

Awards: I have been on the Dean’s list since Fall 2020.

What makes him unique: I really love airplanes, and I flew a plane before I drove a car.

People might be surprised to know: For most of my college career, I was in a class of just two students, since my major is brand new to Penn State Behrend.

Top priority: To earn a doctorate in Polymer Science and Engineering with a focus on aerospace composites. I would love to work for an aircraft company like Boeing or Lockheed Martin designing commercial or military aircraft.

His passions: I am passionate about airplanes and my career, but also about my faith, family, and friends. I also love physical activities such as skiing and weightlifting.

After his graduation in May, Joseph will work at Parker LORD Corporation for the summer in research and development. In the fall, he will begin graduate school at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Alexis Parker (Nursing)   

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 is ready to make its mark on the world!-  We’re proud of our students and all that they have learned and accomplished here at Behrend. Over the next several weeks, we’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Alexis Parker.   

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Major: Nursing

Hometown: Erie, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: Panhellenic Council Scholarship and Irvin Kochel Leadership Scholarship. I also received an outside award from the American Association of University Women (Erie branch.)

On choosing her major: I have always had a passion for science, medicine, and helping people. I knew that nursing was for me. Penn State has a great nursing program, so it was an easy choice to make.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: My proudest accomplishment is the service event that was hosted through Panhellenic Council. All of the sororities came together and collected feminine products, new clothing, and other items to make more than 100 individual grab bags that were donated to a local non-profit organization that benefits women and children in crisis. I was so happy with the teamwork that the sororities displayed and the outcome of our donation drive.

Campus involvement: I was involved in Alternative Spring Break, Alpha Sigma Alpha, National Panhellenic Council, and our campus chapter of the Student Nurses Association of Pennsylvania.

What you might be surprised to know about her: I am a licensed cosmetologist. I hope to find a part-time job working in a medical spa, so I can utilize my nursing degree and my cosmetology experience to make people feel better about themselves.

How does she define a good life: A good life would be getting to wake up and genuinely enjoying what I am doing, whether helping somebody in the hospital, making somebody else laugh or smile, hanging out with my family, or just reading a good book.

Top priority: My top priority is getting oriented to my new career and eventually applying to graduate school. I want to obtain my doctorate in nursing and become either a nurse practitioner or a nurse anesthetist.

Her passion: I am passionate about helping people and participating in service to others. I was honored to be able to participate in Alternative Spring Break all four years of my collegiate experience. I hope I can continue participating in service opportunities after I graduate.

Advice for first-year students: Get involved and attend events. Joining clubs and organizations will give you so much experience in team building, growing relationships with others and being a leader. I have grown so much in my leadership skills, and that would not have happened without involving myself in the wonderful clubs, organizations, and events on campus.

Alexis has accepted a job in the trauma-neuro intensive care unit at UPMC Hamot in Erie.

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 Hannah Gampe (Mathematics)

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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 Hanna Gampe.

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Name: Hannah Gampe

Major: Mathematics, Applied Mathematics option

Minors: Computer Science and Statistics

Hometown: Tyrone, Pennsylvania

Scholarships: Behrend Excellence Award and Todd Leadership Scholarship

On choosing Behrend: I grew up between Altoona and University Park, so I loved the community, connections, and opportunities to be found in the Penn State community. I wanted to go to a smaller campus where I could meet new people, and Behrend was perfect for me.

On choosing her major: I always loved math and the subject came naturally to me, so I decided to explore it more.

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: During my first semester over Thanksgiving break, I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and had to miss a week of school. I was told that I might not be able to come back from missing that much time, but I did. I finished my first semester with a 4.0 grade point average and have maintained it ever since.

Campus involvement: I am the president of Random Acts of Kindness, Pi Mu Epsilon, and the Disability Awareness and Resources for Equity group, and also vice president of University Park’s chapter of The Diabetes Link. I am also a member of Lion Ambassadors, Lion Scouts, Leadership Scholars, the 75th Anniversary Planning Committee, and Alternative Spring Break, and I am a math tutor.

Awards and recognitions: The President’s Award, the Most Promising Freshman in Mathematics, the Sparks Award, Evan Pugh Scholar, Academic Excellence in Mathematics, and Irvin H. Kochel Award

What makes her unique: I can sing the alphabet backward.

What you might be surprised to know about her: I played piano for nine years.

Her definition of a good life: Being happy with yourself and being kind to others. Showing kindness to others is, in turn, showing kindness to yourself. It’s important that your happiness come from within and not rely on another person or material things.

Her passions: I really like reading and I hope to travel when I get out of school.

Advice for first-year students: Don’t be afraid of your professors. They are people, too (shocking!). They want you to succeed, and they care about you.

A final note: The best advice I received regarding college was: “You can work hard for four years and have fun the rest of your life or have fun for four years and work hard the rest of your life.” That’s not to say you can’t have fun in college, but remember why you are there and make smart choices.

After graduation, Hannah, plans to start her career in data analysis or statistics.

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 Briona Bargerstock (Psychology)  

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 is ready to make its mark on the world! We’re proud of our students and all that they have learned and accomplished here at Behrend. Over the next several weeks, we’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

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

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Major: Psychology

Hometown: Kittanning, Pennsylvania

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Standout Seniors ’23: Meet Isabella Porco (Nursing)   

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 is ready to make its mark on the world! We’re proud of our students and all that they have learned and accomplished here at Behrend. Over the next several weeks, we’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

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

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Major: Nursing

Certificate: Nursing Informatics

Hometown: Tarentum, Pennsylvania

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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Penn State Behrend’s Class of 2023 is ready to make its mark on the world!  We’re proud of our students and all that they have learned and accomplished here at Behrend. Over the next several weeks, we’ll introduce you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technologies, participated in important research projects, and made their mark at Penn State Behrend.

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

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Major: Software Engineering

Hometown: Tacarigua, Trinidad and Tobago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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