Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Other Major: Digital Journalism and Media
Minor: Political Science
Hometown: Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania

What was the best part of your experience?

The best part of my experience abroad was having the opportunity to interact with and learn Castilian Spanish every day. While studying Mediterranean Cuisine and Wine Tasting as well as conversational Spanish at the University of the Balearic Islands (Universitat de les Illes Balears), I had the opportunity of living with a host family whose matriarch was also a school teacher that spoke very little English. As a result of this experience, I learned a tremendous amount of Spanish and gained a great deal of confidence in my ability to speak Spanish on a daily basis.

As a result of this experience, I learned a tremendous amount of Spanish and gained a great deal of confidence in my ability to speak Spanish on a daily basis

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience better prepared me for my future enrollment in Spanish 3 and ignited in me a desire to continue learning and honing my Spanish skills. In addition, I am now more comfortable in tutoring students in Spanish as well as facilitating group learning activities with Spanish.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

While abroad I became privy to a program called Auxiliar de Conversacion sponsored by the Spanish government which invites recently graduated undergraduate students who speak English (i.e. students from Canada, France, and the US) to work alongside native Spanish speaking teachers in their classrooms as conversation assistants in teaching their students English. This program was referred to me by my professor who thought that I would be well-suited for it, advised that I apply, and even provided me with a letter of recommendation. As it were, I will be submitting my application for this program in January of 2020 for placement in a Spanish school in October of 2020.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Communication Arts and Sciences
Minor: Digital Media Trends and Analytics, Photography
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

What was the best part of your experience?

The best part of my experience was having the opportunity to work within a different culture. I know how the American work culture functions, and being able to compare that with a different part of the world was beneficial. Conflict and celebration happen differently in different places, and being able to experience that and see that I could adapt to those differences was huge for my personal and professional development.

This internship gave me the exact experience I need for what I want to do with my future

How did this experience impact you academically?

I was abroad for my internship, and during the internship I used skills from my DMTA minor in order to do the work my internship required of me. I did a lot of social media marketing and content work, and knowing how the platforms I was working with worked before I started was very beneficial. It's also helpful as I learned some things that I am taking classes on now, so I'm ahead of my peers within my minor because of the real-world experience I gained.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship gave me the exact experience I need for what I want to do with my future. I'm hoping to move into social media marketing as a career, and having applicable experience within the corporate world already puts me ahead of others also in this market. It has allowed me to have actual experience to discuss with potential employers and show that I have the appropriate experience to start a career in this field.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Communication Arts and Sciences, English, Philosophy
Minor: French, History, Jewish Studies, Rhetoric, Linguistics
Hometown: Allentown, Pennsylvania

What was the best part of your experience?

The best part of my experience was connecting with intelligent students around the nation and caring professionals in the field who all share a similar passion and drive. Over ten weeks, I got to engage in multiple transformative experiences and learning moments with both peers and supervisors. These experiences worked to both clarify my values and refine my future goals.

My internship showed me the power of intellectual curiosity and humility in academic pursuits

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience showed me the power my academic work can have on policies and practices at higher education institutes. Academic research into psychology, philosophy, political science, and other fields have a direct bearing on the way individual rights are viewed in the public eye. Further, my internship showed me the power of intellectual curiosity and humility in academic pursuits.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

My career goals are refined, energized, and clarified after this internship. I had the opportunity to meet many people in the field I wish to pursue and got the chance to speak one-on-one with lawyers and professionals who were able to share valuable and personalized advice.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program enabled and encouraged me to pursue multiple disciplines, which I was able to leverage in approaching research projects and intellectual discussions at the internship. This allowed me to bring valuable insight to the workplace, and I felt I quickly became a treasured member of the team.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Other Major: Engineering Science
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

What was the best part of your experience?

The best part of my experience was the amount I learned throughout the summer. Coming into the internship from a non-finance background was definitely tough. I did not know much about Securitization, but PNC has one of the best internship programs in the country, and it showed. From lunch and learns with upper-level management to analysts and associates taking time out of their days to teach interns, I had the ability to learn an incredible amount.

From lunch and learns with upper-level management to analysts and associates taking time out of their days to teach interns, I had the ability to learn an incredible amount

How did this experience impact you academically?

The internship impacted me both professionally and academically. Working every day with a diverse number of people with all kinds of backgrounds has given me the ability to work better in student groups at a big school like Penn State. Also, I did a lot of work with computer programs such as Excel, PowerPoint, and Python. Learning these programs has given me more options to complete homework assignments and projects at school.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience had a tremendously positive impact on my career goals. I've always wanted to get into the financial services industry and work in the finance capital of the world: New York City. The internship gave me the ability to do both and test if finance was a good fit for me. Also, at the end of the internship, I was lucky enough to get a return offer from PNC.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Communication Arts and Sciences
Minor: Business
Hometown: Richboro, Pennsylvania

What was the best part of your experience?

The best part about my experience as an intern for CHUBB was the professional experience that I gained. I quickly learned how to conduct myself professionally in meetings and over email by interacting with and learning from my coworkers around me. I also had the privilege of gaining knowledge from experienced insurance professionals in a variety of fields from an array of backgrounds and areas of expertise during my time at CHUBB. The best part of working with these professionals was having the chance to sit down with many of them and discuss how their career path lead to their current position. This gave me invaluable insight to the wide array of opportunities that lie ahead of me upon graduation.

I am more motivated than ever in the classroom as I know that the technical and interpersonal skills I am learning and improving here at Penn State are shaping me to be a well-rounded and experienced worker

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience has motivated me academically. Working in a professional environment, I had the ability to see myself as a member of a team and felt as though my academic experience had greatly prepared me for the job I performed. I am more motivated than ever in the classroom as I know that the technical and interpersonal skills I am learning and improving here at Penn State are shaping me to be a well-rounded and experienced worker.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience helped me fine tune my career goals. I always knew I wanted to go to law school upon graduation, but I never knew what aspect of the law I was intrigued by or where I saw myself after obtaining my law degree. After working in a corporate environment, I have come to realize my deep interest in corporate, transactional law and have tailored my studies here at Penn State to set me up for that goal. I am now pursuing the Smeal Business Fundamentals Certificate in addition to my Business minor. I chose to pursue these business classes so that I may have a better understanding of business before going to law school. Working with and learning from the experiences of CHUBB attorneys shed light on an aspect of the law I never previously considered, and I am now more than ever excited to take the next steps in order to achieve my goal of working in transactional law.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

My involvement in the Paterno Fellows Program has completely shaped my college experience and my future goals. Paterno Fellows has allowed me to grow as both a student and an individual. My leadership positions, internship experience, philanthropic actions, rigorous classes, independent research, and ethics studies have shaped me to be a well-rounded student and prepared me for this experience. When I first arrived to Penn State and opted to be an aspirant in the Paterno Fellow Program I never anticipated to learn and grow so much from an academic opportunity. The College of the Liberal Arts has given me every resource possible to be successful, and participating in the Paterno Fellows Program is just one of the opportunities I am so grateful was offered to me. Paterno Fellows has challenged me both inside and outside of the classroom, but most importantly, it has shaped me to be an active and diligent member of my community and within any organization I chose to be a part of.

Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics, French Language & Culture
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

What was the best part of your experience?

The best part of my experience was being given the opportunity to actively participate in state government. I not only watched as historic legislation was passed, but I also got to play a role in the process. As a Legislative Page, I prepared and worked on the legislative floor of the Ohio House of Representatives when in session. When it was not in session I assisted state representatives in their offices with special projects and by communicating with their constituents.

I discovered a passion for politics and government I did not know I had

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience impacted me academically by providing me with firsthand experience in politics. I was able to see everything I had learned in the classroom about legislation and elections applied in a real-world setting. I discovered a passion for politics and government I did not know I had.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience has already begun to impact my career goals. Before this experience, I did not think I wanted to pursue a career in government, and I was focused on the idea of going to law school. After completing this enrichment experience, I now want to continue to explore the field of politics and can see a career as a politician as a reality.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program affected this experience positively. I know that this unique program helped me stand out against other applicants. Another way Paterno Fellows affected my experience was due to its resources. I was able to apply for funding to ensure that an internship away from home was a possibility.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology
Hometown: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

What was the best part of your experience?

The best part of my experience was definitely getting to know the people over there and experiencing the culture. I loved my co-workers, and they definitely went above and beyond to make sure I felt welcome and a part of the company and their family. They have such a social aspect over there -- whether it be going to lunch during a break, having a cup of tea together in between meetings, or going to the pub after work and relaxing and just having a good time together. I still keep in touch with the people I met in London, and I can't wait to be able to see and hang out with them again.

This internship gave me the confidence I needed to enter the workforce after graduation and trust that I have the skills it takes to succeed

How did this experience impact you academically?

In addition to my internship, I also had a three credit course I took in the U.K. with IES. It was called Leading Across Cultures: Internship Seminar. This class helped me to learn their culture from an academic perspective and see how their schooling is done and what their classrooms look like. We also learned how to be a strong candidate entering the workforce and how to adapt quickly in any environment. This class helped me fulfill the business portion of my Psychology degree in addition to giving me a valuable internship experience.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I am so appreciative of my marketing internship abroad. My mentor/manager Affly taught me so much about what it means to be in marketing and showed me how to use important software such as Adobe InDesign and Photoshop. She trusted me enough to let me take the lead on important tasks and turn to her whenever I needed help. This internship gave me the confidence I needed to enter the workforce after graduation and trust that I have the skills it takes to succeed. Interning abroad is something very few people can say they have done in their life and add to their resume, and I am so grateful I was able to have this experience. Studying abroad would have never been possible without the Career Enrichment Network.

Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Hometown: Downingtown, Pennsylvania

What was the best part of your experience?

The best part of my internship experience so far has been cultivating the Giving Tuesday Thank You Video. Every year, the Development team in the Libraries works hard to celebrate Giving Tuesday. Giving Tuesday is the Tuesday after Thanksgiving dedicated to charitable giving. So far I have been able to craft my own ideas for this year's video and go down to the Libraries to film students, which has been incredibly engaging.

This internship has impacted my career goals by giving me another possible option to explore after graduation

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experienced impacted me academically by helping me develop critical professional skills. Throughout my education, my classes have helped me work hard at communication, organization, and creativity. This internship experience has allowed me to apply these skills in a hands-on professional environment to encourage further development.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship has impacted my career goals by giving me another possible option to explore after graduation. I was not sure what career options would be open to an International Politics major besides working in politics or the government, but working in Development has given me another avenue to explore. This career field incorporates a variety of majors with the goal of securing gifts, impacting the Penn State community, and upholding the University's values. I have really enjoyed working in philanthropy and fulfilling the values of the University, so I think this internship may have steered my post-graduation career path more toward this type of work.

Liberal Arts Major(s): French and Francophone Studies, German, Global and International Studies
Minor: Linguistics
Hometown: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I am spending this academic year studying at the University of Freiburg through a direct enrollment program. I chose this opportunity rather than IES or similar programs designed for American students because I wanted to have a more authentic cultural experience of living and studying with German students.

The language and cultural competencies that I develop while living in Germany will be valuable assets as I pursue an internationally-focused career after graduation.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Spending this year immersed in German in an academic setting has so far been challenging but rewarding; I am learning how to thrive in an university setting that is very different from the one I am accustomed to in the U.S., and of course, my language skills have reached new heights since I arrived a little over two months ago.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The language and cultural competencies that I develop while living in Germany will be valuable assets as I pursue an internationally-focused career after graduation. Because Germany is one of the U.S.’s closest allies and a leader within the E.U., these skills will help me to stand out as a well-rounded and desirable candidate to any future employers, especially if I decide to engage in diplomacy work in Germany.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

My professors and advisors in the College of the Liberal Arts worked with me to ensure that spending three semesters abroad would be possible for my academic plan (I spent last spring semester studying in Senegal, and I am spending two semesters studying in Germany). Additionally, enrichment funding from the College helped to fund my travel expenses.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

As a Paterno Fellow, I have received plenty of financial and academic support for my extended time abroad, especially because my experiences abroad will contribute to the content of my honors thesis.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Political Science
Minor: French and Francophone Studies
Hometown: State College, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I arrived in Aix-en-Provence in September with the goal of improving my French skills and learning more about French society. Through this experience, I have had the opportunity to accomplish these goals, meet people from across the United States and the world, and explore the South of France.

I am able to return to the United States in a few weeks with an improved ability and confidence in speaking French and a much fuller understanding of French society.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Through living with a French-speaking host family, this experience has given me the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the French language and culture. I am able to return to the United States in a few weeks with an improved ability and confidence in speaking French and a much fuller understanding of French society.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

As someone who is double-majoring in Labor and Employment Relations, I've enjoyed learning about the differences in American and French work cultures through my Business French class. I feel like I now more fully understand the positives and negatives to French employment structure, and this is knowledge that I will carry with me as I pursue a career in employment law.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of Liberal Arts was very helpful in both helping me find a program that worked best for my majors and minors and in helping me fund this experience. Thanks to the enrichment funding I received, the financial burden on my family was lessened, and I was able to take advantage of more of the opportunities that living in Europe presents, like travel.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program has given me the skills to face the challenge of living and learning in another language. The skills I've gained from my honors classes have made me more adept at adapting to challenges and taught me to think about cultural differences in a broader context.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology, Spanish
Hometown: Elysburg, PA
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

As the lab manager in Dr. Levy's research lab, I attend weekly meetings with Dr. Levy to discuss the lab's projects, new applicants, and current trainings. I help to delegate tasks to over 20 undergraduate RAs and serve as a communication point between them and Dr. Levy and the grad students in our lab.

Learning to create solutions to problems with many moving parts in lab enhances my work in the classroom

How did this experience impact you academically?

Learning to create solutions to problems with many moving parts in lab enhances my work in the classroom. I also love getting to work with such a diverse team and delve into the field of personality disorders and attachment theory!

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience has enhanced my interpersonal communication and leadership skills. As a manager, I need to be able to see and empathize with the perspectives of every member of the lab, from first-year students to sixth-year graduate students. I have also learned a lot about mental health disorders and their treatments. As a future health care provider, I believe knowledge about mental health and communication skills are imperative.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The enrichment funding from the College of the Liberal Arts allows me to fully focus on my studies and research instead of worrying about the financial burden of attending college. Without the support I receive from the College, I wouldn't have had such amazing experiences.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

I knew I wanted to do research in the area of clinical psychology; this is the reason I joined Dr. Levy's lab. I am currently writing my thesis for the Paterno Fellows Program on the relation between Borderline Personality Disorder and Attachment Theory.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Political Science, Sociology
Hometown: Souderton, PA
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

My experience abroad in South Africa was both incredibly challenging and incredibly rewarding. It made me evaluate, more than ever before, the meaning of my identity as a white American and, consequentially, my place in the world defined by that identity. It also provided me with an opportunity to engage with cultures that I had never been exposed to before and to interact with individuals from all walks of life on a continent that I was visiting for the first time in my life.

This experience influenced the direction of my studies, as well as my plans for my future career

How did this experience impact you academically?

The alternative perspective that my professors and classmates at the University of Cape Town provided, as citizens of a country in the global South defined by its colonial past, created an academic environment completely different than anything that I had ever experienced before. This new context made me reflect on my identity as an American student who had learned essentially nothing about the continent of Africa up until this point; it made me think twice about the space I took up in any class discussion or conversation.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience influenced the direction of my studies, as well as my plans for my future career — I am now seriously considering continuing my studies after graduating from Penn State to focus on the politics of inequality throughout the world.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The enrichment funding that I received from the College of the Liberal Arts unquestionably helped to make my semester abroad possible. The award that I received helped to lessen the financial burden of the experience on my family and allowed me to fully immerse myself in a new culture without worrying about finances. I am incredibly grateful to my donors and to the College of the Liberal Arts for their support.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Spanish
Other Major: Public Relations
Minor: Global and International Studies
Hometown: Philipsburg, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I participated in the Stanley E. Degler Washington Program this fall. I participated in an internship at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts as a Public Relations Intern. My daily tasks included working with celebrities and journalists, writing press releases, copy editing Playbills for shows, and monitoring news media.

This internship made me a much better public relations professional and writer and prepared me for any kind of career in public relations because of the work I got to do

How did this experience impact you academically?

Through the Washington Program, I got to take classes while living in DC. I took three communications courses that made me a much better public speaker. As part of the classes I got to argue a Supreme Court case in front of practicing lawyers and received the Kathleen and John Collins Oral Advocacy Award. I also had the opportunity to record a TV segment in a real broadcast studio. My internship at the Kennedy Center impacted me academically by making me a much better writer, making me a better time manager, and making me work under pressure.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Because of the amazing experience I had, I hope to someday work at the Kennedy Center or another performing arts center as a public relations professional. This internship made me a much better public relations professional and writer and prepared me for any kind of career in public relations because of the work I got to do.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

My Spanish adviser worked with me to make sure I could have this experience and still complete my Spanish major and global and international studies minor. I also received Liberal Arts enrichment funding for this experience which I am very grateful for. Liberal Arts funding helped me to be able to complete this program without worrying about how I would pay for it.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Anthropology, History, Jewish Studies
Minor: Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies
Hometown: Philipsburg, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I applied for the Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program during my first year of college because I was interested in making connections in my field of interest and learning more about my desired career path. I have since changed my career interest from Archaeology to Museum Studies; however, my mentor has helped me along the way by reviewing my resumes and cover letters and putting me into contact with other professionals when she is no longer in her area of expertise. My mentor has been an amazing help to me, and I would highly recommend the program to anyone.

The Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program has allowed me to interact with a neutral experienced professional that wants to help me achieve my career aspirations

How did this experience impact you academically?

The Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program has allowed me to consider the classes and future education I might need in order to obtain my desired career goals. Speaking with my mentor has allowed me to think about programs or classes that would make me more marketable for certain internships or future educational opportunities. It is always great to have a second opinion on programs, and she is also able to tell me about programs she knows about and thinks I might be interested in.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program has allowed me to interact with a neutral experienced professional that wants to help me achieve my career aspirations. It can be difficult to speak to family, friends, and faculty about your future career aspirations because they can sometimes feel as though they know what is best for you. While my mentor also wants the best for me, she is usually more open to hearing about what I want to achieve professionally and helps me work toward achieving those goals.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The staff of the College of the Liberal Arts has gone above and beyond to make opportunities for mentors and mentees in the program to meet in-person through luncheons and other events. While talking on the phone or on Skype is a great way to interact with a mentor, being able to meet them in person is also an amazing opportunity. My mentor is not always available to meet in person, but I have been able to meet other students and mentors in the program that I might not have been able to meet otherwise through some of these events.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology
Minor: Global Security, Middle Eastern Studies, Hebrew
Hometown: Mount Kisco, New York
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

My mentor has worked with me since my first semester senior year. At first, our relationship was very structured, but it developed into a more casual-professional relationship. I reached out when I needed advice or a cover letter or resume review and when I wanted to chat about my future. He was always willing to meet up and help, and he is still helping me today!

My mentor helped me navigate the 'scary thought' of what to do after college

How did this experience impact you academically?

My mentor helped me navigate skills I should learn and courses I should take and gave me advice for the future. Importantly, he helped me understand how to present myself to employers and what would work best in my favor. Academically, he always supported me and encouraged me to go the extra mile in school.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

My mentor helped me navigate the 'scary thought' of what to do after college. While my career goals definitely changed from freshman year to now, my mentor provided me with the right steps, advice, networking practice and more to allow me to be successful in my career. He gave me unrivaled advice for my industry that I don't know if I could've gotten anywhere else.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I found my mentor at the Alumni Mentor Networking lunch! While the Alumni Mentor Program provided me with the tools for the program, it also provided the right spaces for the program to work (aka the networking lunch). The College of the Liberal Arts has been so supportive of the experiences that my mentor has helped me find and provided another set of eyes to check over resumes, cover letters, and more.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Spanish
Other Major: Security and Risk Analysis
Minor: Arabic
Hometown: Jenkintown, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I have the opportunity to talk with my mentor, Jenn, about everything from my resume to my coursework to my extracurricular activities! I've also learned a lot about her own work in the security sector, and we talk about how she's navigated working from home, travelling for work, and switching jobs to a slightly different field. I've greatly enjoyed talking to Jenn, and many of our conversations leave me feeling relaxed and ready to take on my college career and the days beyond!

I've greatly enjoyed talking to Jenn [my alumni mentor], and many of our conversations leave me feeling relaxed and ready to take on my college career and the days beyond!

How did this experience impact you academically?

Jenn has helped me navigate which courses sound the most interesting while balancing which courses might benefit my future career the most. We talked a lot about my Python programming course, as well as my ArcGIS-focused course.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Jenn helps me by letting me know that it is a-ok to be uncertain about your future; that sometimes, taking it slow is the best way to take things! She calms my fears about not finding an internship in time, not finding a job in time, etc. Her calming perspective helps me slow down, enjoy my college career, and find aspects of my classes that I might want to carry through to my life after graduation.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts and its Alumni Mentor Program have helped me find the perfect mentor who is compatible with my goals and my course of study. My first mentor in college was helpful, but as my career goals shifted to have more of a security focus, the Alumni Mentor Program worked with me to find me a new mentor who had experience in the field and could help guide me to potential careers.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

I would not have known about the Alumni Mentor Program if not for Liberal Arts Envoys (now Ambassadors), which I learned about in part through the Paterno Fellows Program.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Political Science
Other Major: Advertising, Master of International Affairs (integrated undergraduate-graduate program)
Hometown: State College, Pennsylvania
Chapel Executive Intern
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

By interning at Sumo, I had the opportunity to join a company that is “shaping the internet.” AppSumo is a leading company at the forefront of software development, internet services, and email marketing. Working in a small team of 26 people, I had the opportunity to hit the ground running from the start, surrounded by an environment of leaders and entrepreneurs in the field. As an intern, I co-managed email marketing accounts for the two highest-grossing revenue customers and was part of the Growth Team for a new app titled FAM, standing for Fully Automated Marketing.

Throughout the internship, I built upon my skill set of strict attention to detail, creatively, collaboration, and dedication - all facets I relied on for success in my academics.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Throughout the internship, I built upon my skill set of strict attention to detail, creatively, collaboration, and dedication - all facets I relied on for success in my academics. Utilizing the work effort I fostered during my time at Penn State, I was able to see how my dedication to school transitioned to my dedication and commitment to my career. Heading into this next semester, I have developed a more detailed expertise in time management, handling expectations, and delivering results for myself, my academics, and the start of my career.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship greatly impacted my career goals as the company hired me remotely while I complete my final semester of coursework to finish my degrees. Without pursuing this experience, I would be applying to jobs during my last semester of school. Looking forward to graduation, I will have a full year of work experience in my background. My career goals are further supported by my ability and background from this internship.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts had a direct impact on my success because without the enrichment funding, I would have financially struggled throughout the internship. Due to the generous gift and support from the Chapel Executive Internship Program, I felt uninhibited, shedding the stress of financial burdens from this experience. For the first time in my life, I did not have financial stress over my head. Arriving at my final semester, I am proud and grateful to say that I was able to experience an internship in the private sector while maintaining enrollment in the Integrated Undergraduate-Graduate Program and completing my time at Penn State with a master’s degree in international affairs, a bachelor's degree in political science, and a bachelor's degree in advertising. Due to the amazing and supportive enrichment funds staff, my advisors, support from professors, and Penn State as a community, I have found success greater than anything I could have imagined in my freshman year.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Biological Anthropology
Other Major: Biology
Hometown: Stafford, Virginia
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I spent two weeks over winter break interacting with tropical flora and fauna in Costa Rica as we hiked around lowland, montane, and mangrove forests. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions of organisms in each habitat zone, I conducted two group research projects and one independent project in the field with help from Costa Rican and Penn State faculty members.

I interacted with an incredible variety of animals, ranging from howler monkeys to glass frogs, learned about the plants and other organisms these animals rely on, and found out about human impacts on wildlife diversity.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Taking this class in Costa Rica allowed me to gain a more in-depth perspective about tropical ecology than simply taking a class in State College. In short, the course’s material perfectly incorporated my academic interests in anthropology and biology and enhanced my interest in the intersection between the two subjects. I interacted with an incredible variety of animals, ranging from howler monkeys to glass frogs, learned about the plants and other organisms these animals rely on, and found out about human impacts on wildlife diversity.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Although I have previously conducted research, those experiences have all been computational. Completing small field research projects in Costa Rica helped me gain a better understanding of the diversity of research methods I could use to answer complex evolutionary questions in an anthropology graduate program. This experience also gave me a broader appreciation for how culture intersects with biology and impacts conservation.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

My diverse academic interests have always been supported by the faculty in the College of the Liberal Arts, who have assisted me in finding and taking part in unique opportunities during my time at Penn State. I have also received enrichment funds to support these experiences abroad.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program has encouraged me to make the most of my academic experience through study abroad programs such as the one I took in Costa Rica. Furthermore, the program has challenged me to increase my intercultural awareness, aiding me in becoming a better anthropologist.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Spanish
Other Major: Security and Risk Analysis
Hometown: Northampton, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I had an amazing time exploring the country of Cuba and learning about the rich culture and traditions. I was able to explore new religions, music, and food throughout my time in Havana and across the country. The people I met, including my host family and professors, have left a lasting impression on me. I will always value the new relationships I formed. Ultimately, studying abroad in Cuba has given me the confidence and independence to explore.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience has altered my academic landscape by preparing me academically in ways that staying in the U.S. never could have. I was able to learn from dedicated Cuban professors about Cuban historical subjects, politics, and the arts. In addition to the real-world knowledge that I gained by taking classes at the University of Havana, I was able to vastly improve my Spanish capabilities. I am now confident and fluent in the Spanish language.

The people I met, including my host family and professors, have left a lasting impression on me. I will always value the new relationships I formed.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

My desire to work in the security world was fortified by my experience abroad and my language skills. I now have close to 4 months of experience in a developing country, where I was able to live like a local and understand the perspectives of Cubans. I am also able to understand the Cuban dialect and nuances. These areas of growth were awarded to me only by the opportunity of spending an entire semester abroad.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of Liberal Arts and my Spanish professors have allowed me to take advantage of this opportunity. Through the encouragement of my Spanish professors and advisors, I felt confident in my decision to choose Cuba. Their words of wisdom about the importance of choosing a non-traditional country allowed me to take this step. Furthermore, through the use of enrichment funds I was able to participate in day-to-day activities in Cuba. Without the funds I would not have been able to explore the country and participate in amazing cultural experiences.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

For my spring 2020 internship experience, I have been a community intern at the Bryn through the Cardinal Group. This internship is a marketing and leasing focused experience. The main goal is to use strengths that I already possess to help cultivate innovative marketing ideas and techniques. The goal of generating these ideas is to gain revenue in the company and create lasting relationships with prospects. Along with this process I am also responsible for learning the technical aspects of the job. This includes learning software, such as Excel and Entrata. I am required to do all of this while also maintaining a friendly, professional, and welcoming atmosphere for prospects. Lastly, I am required to learn how to create relationships with other businesses and organizations in order to maximize partnership relations.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience has taught me how to fine-tune the concepts I have learned in a classroom setting in order to build real world relationships. A key aspect of marketing is to build relationships in order to maximize profit. While learning this in class, I have discovered that these efforts take planning in order to have a clear course of action. This experience has allowed me to take the processes learned in class and implement them in a real world setting. I have been able to come up with my own marketing plans and events and actually see them come to life. I am now not only coming up with the ideas, but I am also putting them into action. 

This experience has taught me how to fine-tune the concepts I have learned in a classroom setting in order to build real world relationships.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience has opened my eyes to the world of leasing management and the key role that marketing plays in it. I have found a genuine interest in marketing. This experience has also taught me that a lot of a company’s success comes from successful marketing efforts. A successful marketing team can lead to a successful entry into the targeted market. This has completely changed my opinion on what field of work I want to go into. I would like to ultimately join a company that has a traveling marketing team so I can learn how to adapt to different marketing environments. I ultimately would like to oversee marketing strategies on a broader level. Through this experience I have also learned that I would like to play a key role in the innovation and implementation of new marketing concepts to stay relevant with the times. While I am not completely sure what the future entails, I know that I see marketing playing a key role in my future.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Throughout my college career, I have worked closely with my adviser to expand on my strengths to find my particular field of interest. I have always had an interest in Psychology, and through the many discussions I have had with my adviser, I have been able to discover the advantage my background in Psychology could give me in the marketing field. By taking Psychology NS marketing courses I have been able to find a happy medium. While working closely with advisers, I have also found a safe place in the Paul Robeson Cultural Center. There is an open-door policy they have in order to give students an opportunity to express their current tribulations along with getting advice on career paths. I have personally built a meaningful relationship with Carlos Wiley and he has been extremely encouraging in my exploration of career paths. Through these resources I have been able to have the privilege of gaining my internship in marketing.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Minor: Labor and Human Resources
Hometown: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

For the duration of the program, I am assigned to a committee in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. While on this committee, I work under an Executive Director and a Senior Research Analyst. My job is to assist them in their work as well as do several projects throughout the semester. The projects I have to complete are an interview with a representative, a bill analysis, a constituent letter, a formal portfolio, and an original piece of legislation. While there is no "typical" day in politics, as I often find myself given a new project with a higher priority, most of the time I conduct background research for committee hearings or new bills. I also draft cosponsor memos, look into and draft a response to constituent inquiries, write meeting agendas, and more. Often times, I will have the opportunity to sit in on meetings with the committee chairman as they talk with special interest groups or minority party members. At this point in the semester, I am involved heavily with researching and drafting my legislation. This entails meeting with my supervisors, stakeholders, and attorneys to help draft the bill. One thing I learned about working in politics is that you have to be ready to change direction or re-prioritize projects to fit changing needs of the committee or representatives very quickly.  

How did this experience impact you academically?

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has been very supportive, informative, and helpful throughout my Penn State career. I have met with and emailed Susan Knell over the years, and she has helped me to dramatically improve my resume. I have highlighted my strengths and accomplishments and discussed interview tactics prior to my interview for this internship. Furthermore, I have applied to and received enrichment funds for this program. Since I am taking the internship for credit, I had tuition and two rents to pay. The enrichment funds helped to alleviate that financial strain by lessening the cost. My internship class with Dr. Peter Miraldi also assisted me in identifying the goals of my internship and what I needed in order to succeed in this program. 

Liberal Arts Major(s): Political Science
Other Major: Advertising, Master of International Affairs (integrated undergraduate-graduate program)
Hometown: State College, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

As a project assistant for Dr. McClennen at the School of International Affairs and The Center for Global Studies, I am involved in different aspects of research, event management, and supportive administrative tasks. In terms of research, I am examining how to expand and/or replace the use of realist and idealist theories across universities. This involves gathering information from various universities, summarizing past critiques of international relations theories, and synthesizing the findings in a cohesive manner. Other research areas are laughtivism and non-violent communication.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience impacts me academically because I have the chance to work directly with the Director of Global Studies and tenured professor at the School of International Affairs. Having the chance to learn under her direction provides me with the opportunity to fine-tune my research abilities, hear about her past experiences, and learn the inner workings of a global culture and education center. In the realm of academics, I am learning more and more about non-violent communication, the concept of laughtivism, and globalized media trends under her research direction.

Having the chance to learn under her [Dr. McClennen's] direction provides me with the opportunity to fine-tune my research abilities, hear about her past experiences, and learn the inner workings of a global culture and education center. 

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience impacts my career goals because I have the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with a professor at the School of International Affairs. Learning under her direction, this internship fine-tunes my time management skills, research abilities, and provides the chance to build a personal, one-on-one connection with a professor acclaimed in the world of media, globalization, and activism.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has assisted in the sense that I can utilize this internship experience as class credit. This is extremely helpful because as an IUG student, I am simultaneously completing two bachelor's degrees and my master's degree. Not wanting to miss out on an opportunity to work for a professor, the College of the Liberal Arts has set me up for success to be able to achieve numerous experiences while fulfilling classroom requirements.

Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Minor: Sociology, History
Hometown: Potomac Falls, Virginia
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I chose the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) due to its option to spend six weeks in different locations. I spent the first six weeks in Paris, France and then six weeks in London, England. Unfortunately, due the coronavirus outbreak I was not able to complete my last six weeks in Rome. Despite this, I took every opportunity to explore and take in Europe as much as I could. I have taken weekend trips to Amsterdam (The Netherlands), Interlaken (Switzerland), Edinburgh (Scotland), and Dublin (Ireland).

I took every opportunity to explore and take in Europe as much as I could.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience has given me a new perspective on international politics. The professors from Paris and London offered invaluable knowledge and perspective on politics that I would have not learned had I stayed in America. As an international politics major, I think it is super important to understand and learn the perspectives of other nations besides the United States. Moreover, I was in Paris during the transportation strike and in London during Brexit. These are key political events on the international stage that I got to experience firsthand.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience will help my career goals because it has given me new knowledge and perspectives that will make me unique when applying and working in different jobs. Since my major is 'international,' going abroad has really given me that 'international' experience. Additionally, my job may require me to go abroad, and now I have the experience and knowledge of how to live in a foreign country.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts enrichment funds have helped me make my aspiration of studying abroad a reality. Funding is a big part of studying abroad, and the College of the Liberal Arts was really supportive and helpful with students' concerns about funding their experiences.

Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Other Major: Security and Risk Analysis
Minor: Chinese Language
Hometown: Yardley, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I worked and continue to work with a PhD Candidate, Michael Soules, on his dissertation. I am primarily tasked with researching the methods used by terrorist organizations to recruit civilians and submitting written memos on each group. He presented an opportunity for me to co-author a paper for publication on the role of child soldiers and youth wings in terrorist organizations and how the use of children relates back to overall recruitment methods.

This experience has allowed me to network with and get to know other faculty members, making connections with those who would be able to help me as I continue to pursue my studies

How did this experience impact you academically?

It has been an interesting experience to add on, and has challenged me academically. It pushes me to improve my critical thinking and analytical skills, while forcing me to adapt my time management to include this responsibility. It has made me a better student and has increased my ability to handle many responsibilities at once.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The possibility of having a publication would improve my credibility to future employers, and being a research assistant overall has provided me with valuable skills for my intended field. Particularly as I consider law school or a PhD program, this experience has provided me with the opportunity to dip my toes into higher-level academia and improve on skills I would utilize more frequently when pursuing higher education.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I found the opportunity through a faculty member. I reached out to her asking if she knew of any opportunities, and she put me in contact with Mr. Soules. This experience has allowed me to network with and get to know other faculty members, making connections with those who would be able to help me as I continue to pursue my studies.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program did not directly affect this experience. However, I know that if I reached out to any Paterno Fellows Program faculty for aid, I would be given as much support as I need to continue this experience and make it as beneficial as possible to my academic experience.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology
Minor: Bioethics and Medical Humanities, Biology
Hometown: Potomac, Maryland
Experience Time: Fall 2019

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I have worked in the CAN lab as a Research Assistant for a few years. This semester I was able to collaborate with another research assistant to restart two studies, and we were able to submit them for a conference. It has been a great experience as I was also able to gain more responsibility through the revival of these studies and experienced a unique side of research that I had never been exposed to.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Overall, this experience helped to improve and develop my interpersonal communication skills and coding skills. The communication and organization skills that I've used in the lab have become an asset in my classes as I continue to work with people from various backgrounds. I have also developed leadership skills that have not only helped me assist others in the lab, but have also helped me in classes.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

In the future I hope to continue to conduct research because my time with the CAN lab helped me develop a passion for research. I hope to be accepted into a research focused medical school or a MD/PhD program in which I can further develop my interest and passion for research.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of Liberal Arts has helped support this experience through enrichment funds as they have been very generous in financially supporting my passion for research.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology
Hometown: Upper Darby, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

During the spring semester with the funds that I was awarded, I was able to look at how PTSD can be coded and detected and how you can code someone's emotions based on the pitch of their voice. While not all of the data was fully collected due to the semester ending, I was able to notice that some emotions do affect the pitch of one's voice. Also during my experience, I was able to learn little tasks that will help me such as coding details and various technology skills.

I am excited to see what the future holds with our research and opportunities.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience allowed me to look more into the different effects of trauma and PTSD. By doing this, it gave me a wider view on how to look at those who struggle with this and how it can be portrayed in their voice alone without even seeing their facial expressions. Overall, when it came to my other psychology classes, I was able to take some experiences learned in the lab into the classroom setting. Being a part of the research lab allowed me to have better time management which then transferred to me being able to distribute my time to my school work. Also, during lab meetings, we would look into various studies on different topics which increased my knowledge overall.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience will impact my career goals by allowing me to increase my knowledge in the psychology field overall. This in turn will allow me to choose the right path to obtaining my Ph.D after completing my undergraduate years. My career goal is to work as a clinical psychologist with my own firm. This experience swayed my decision to focus on post traumatic stress disorders a little more. Overall the research experience will increase my chances of getting accepted into graduate school immediately following my undergraduate work. 

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The faculty and graduate students in my lab assisted me by teaching me all the skills that were needed to succeed, from simple tasks such as formatting a resume to coding relationship conflict or coding voice data. The Relationship and Stress Lab was very helpful. When I was looking for this experience, the staff was very willing to point me in the correct direction to find the lab. After having conversations and looking at the psychology website, I knew that Dr. Amy Marshall's lab was right for me. After I applied and was accepted, Dr. Marshall and everyone under her allowed me to succeed and grow. I am excited to see what the future holds with our research and opportunities. 

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology
Other Major: Rehabilitation and Human Services
Hometown: Zhejiang, China
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I am working as a student teacher in a classroom with 20 preschool children and three other teachers. Before the health crisis situation happened, I worked face-to-face with those children eight hours a day. I helped with taking care, creating activities and lesson plans, and communicating with families. After we started to work remotely, I have been working on editing the website for the classroom, recording lessons and activities for the children to watch, and doing some resource collecting for the teachers and families. 

How did this experience impact you academically?

I gained a lot of skills and strategies that I learned in courses, but didn't have the opportunity to practice before. This strengthened my knowledge and understanding about what I have learned academically. For example, I took a child psychopathology course last semester which talked a lot about the development of children. Instead of learning and understanding those development features through the textbook and lectures alone, I understood and applied them during this internship experience as well.

This experience confirmed my passion for and career goal of working with and helping children.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I am going to a graduate program for Prevention Science and Practice which will involve a lot of time working with young children and other educators in school settings. This experience confirmed my passion for and career goal of working with and helping children. In addition, it helped me to build skills that I will definitely need in the future, such as communication and teamwork skills. It also provided the experience of working with children and working in a school setting.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I really appreciate the help from the College of the Liberal Arts. First of all, I got a lot of useful information through the emails that come from the college. In addition, my adviser helped me a lot with organizing my courses and providing advice when I was having a hard time. I also attended a lot of events that were hosted by the College of the Liberal Arts which were very informative. The enrichment funds supported me financially during my internship as well.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Spanish
Other Major: Elementary and Early Childhood Education
Hometown: Jamison, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I was a kindergarten student teacher in a pre-k-2 elementary school. I was responsible for differentiating and providing equitable access to 27 kindergartners on a daily basis. I taught science, math, writing, and reading, as well as social and emotional skills. Throughout this experience, I constantly collaborated with my mentor teacher, student teaching supervisor, fellow student teacher, and other teachers in the school building. I loved student teaching in this setting because of the linguistic and cultural diversity that was present.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience helped me fulfill my student teaching requirement for my Elementary and Early Childhood Education major. It also helped me learn the daily responsibilities of a teacher and how to effectively engage learners of different abilities and backgrounds.

Having this experience working with linguistically diverse students has helped me further develop my passion and professional skills for teaching diverse learners.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience gave me the opportunity to interact and teach students of diverse backgrounds. Twenty six of the twenty seven students in my classroom spoke Spanish, so I was able to practice language learning strategies in the classroom to help students access the content I was teaching. In the future, I would love to be a bilingual and/or ESL teacher, so having this experience working with linguistically diverse students has helped me further develop my passion and professional skills for teaching diverse learners. My students taught me more than they will ever know.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts provided me enrichment funding to financially support this student teaching internship.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program encourages students to build on their cultural competence, which is something that I continued to develop during the student teaching internship.

Liberal Arts Majors: Economics, French and Francophone Studies, History
Minor: Jewish Studies
Hometown: Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I studied abroad in Montpellier, which is a small city in the south of France. During the program, I took classes at the University of Paul Valéry, which is a local university, as well as in the University of Minnesota Program Center. Additionally, I stayed with a host mom who taught me about French culture, and I was able to be fully immersed in the French language.

"...my time in France allowed me to experience living in France and helped me develop important skills that will be useful in any career."

How did this experience impact you academically?

Before going abroad, I was not confident in my French language abilities but knew that I wanted to get better, specifically with speaking and understanding the language. All of my classes were in French, and I also stayed with a host mom who only spoke to me in French, so I was fully immersed in the language. It was challenging at times, especially at the beginning when I wasn't as confident with speaking, but after a while I noticed that speaking was easier and my comprehension was significantly better. Without being fully immersed in the language, I do not think I would have improved as quickly as I did while in France.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Although I'm still unsure of what I would like to pursue after graduation, my time in France allowed me to experience living in France and helped me develop important skills that will be useful in any career. Through navigating the daily grèves (strikes) that shut down classes or the trams, as well as other things like setting up my phone plan in French, I was challenged every day and developed valuable problem-solving skills. Additionally, living in France and improving with the language made me more interested in pursuing a program like TAPIF or Fulbright in a Francophone country after I graduate.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has been immensely helpful in helping me succeed in this experience. I learned about the program from Heather McCoy, who discussed all of my options and helped me find the program that was right for me. Additionally, my French professors helped prepare me for being immersed in the language, as I know my time in France would have been much more difficult if I did not have the background in the language that I had.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

Paterno Fellows helped make the experience more affordable through grants, and they also helped me see how this experience could affect other areas of my academics, such as my thesis. Before being sent home due to COVID-19, I was planning on extending my trip to visit archives in Paris and Aix-en-Provence for my thesis. Although I was not able to complete this research in France, I will still complete it online and have developed an interest in pursuing research abroad, possibly after the pandemic or during graduate school.

Liberal Arts Major: Economics
Other Major: Finance
Minor: International Business
Hometown: Broomall, PA
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience.

Having never traveled outside of the United States or lived in a city, studying abroad in London at University College London was an amazing opportunity for me to step outside of my comfort zone, learn about another cultures, and experience city life. I was part of a direct enrollment program, so I completed Economics Courses with English students and students from all over the world. I had several weekends where I was able to travel around the UK, and even spend a week in Italy.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I had the opportunity to take rigorous economics courses and interesting cultural courses at UCL. My courses in London Architecture and the History of Madness were critical in receiving an elevated understanding and appreciation of the culture of London (and a lot of other areas in Europe). The economics courses I completed were very interesting, and I believe it was a good experience to learn through the UK higher education system that relies less on lecture and more on personal research. Additionally, I believe this international experience will assist me in graduate school admissions.

"My career goals now include a willingness and preference to pursue roles that have an international aspect to them."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This international experience has allowed me to more seriously consider financial employment roles that involve international travel. I believe I am significantly more confident in my understanding of world cultures. This international experience was a major point in my interviews with PepsiCo, where I will be working this summer in their strategic finance department. My career goals now include a willingness and preference to pursue roles that have an international aspect to them.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has provided immense support through semester scholarships, enrichment funding, and course evaluation. I certainly would not have been able to go abroad without the financial support of the College of the Liberal Arts. Additionally, the Economics course evaluator (and my former professor) was incredibly helpful in evaluating courses before and during my abroad trip.

Liberal Arts Major: International Politics
Minor: Business in the Liberal Arts, Dispute Management Resolution, and Global and International Studies
Hometown: Redlands, California
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience.

During the spring of 2020 I was fortunate to attend IES Barcelona and experience a one of a kind study abroad program. I was able to make the most of my time buy embedding myself in the culture of the city and the region of Catalunya by doing a homestead, attending classes at a prestige university, and constantly interacting with the locals and discussing issues that affect the city and the regions (topics included the immigration issue of Europe, the independence movement, and gentrification of the city).

How did this experience impact you academically?

The biggest impact this program has had on me is to inspire me to look into continuing my education abroad through graduate programs offered by universities not only in Spain but across the world. To be able to get a global perspective and an education is second to none. This program allowed me to explore opportunities I never could have imagined.

"The biggest impact this program has had on me is to inspire me to look into continuing my education abroad through graduate programs offered by universities not only in Spain but across the world."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience gave me more reasons to pursue my interest in labor and immigrant issues. Growing up Latino in California, these social issues were at the forefront of my daily life. However, I never thought these same issues could affect more than one place. Now knowing I can do my work in other parts of the world gives me all the reason to consider pursuing these issues as a career.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College was gracious enough to assist me in the process of getting to Barcelona. I was supported by my advisors who helped me pick out my courses. I also had help from the College in the form of funding which eased the financial burden of studying abroad.

Liberal Arts Major: Psychology
Minor: Dispute and Resolute Management
Hometown: State College, PA
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience.

I am working as an intern in the human resource department on a project assessing our company's third party moving vendor. This project allows me to use a lot of skills I've learned at Penn State such as data analysis, outlining Key Performance Indicators, and making and reviewing recommendations based on my findings.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience has given me a greater appreciate for what I have learned in my classes at Penn State and how I am applying this information to the workplace. Specific classes I would like to point out are Psych 281 and Psych 484.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship has given me the opportunity to gain first hand experience in a corporate office. Although I am not sure I want to work in human resources the rest of my life it has been awesome to actually see what goes on behind closed doors.

"This experience has given me a greater appreciate for what I have learned in my classes at Penn State and how I am applying this information to the workplace."

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has helped me succeed in this experience by preparing me through its awesome faculty. I have met a lot of great professors, teaching assistants, and advisers who have impacted my academic career path.

Liberal Arts Major: Criminology
Minors: Psychology and Sociology
Hometown: Eastchester, New York
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience.

I assisted Lorey Leddy, a lawyer at Murtha Cullina LLP, on a class action prisoners' rights case, regarding the violation of their rights under the Eighth Amendment. I was primarily tasked with analyzing documents about the environment in the facility, specifically regarding irregularities in the water and air quality. I also reviewed letters from inmates, noting any medical conditions or essential information they mentioned, as well as organized inmate data of the hundreds of inmates housed at Osborn Correctional Institution to ensure all potential class members will be informed of any updates throughout the case.

"This experience will positively impact my career goals by allowing me to increase my knowledge in criminology overall."

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience allowed me to learn more about the criminal justice system as a whole as well as how the court system works. In my classes at Penn State, I learn a lot about these systems in lectures, and I have gotten familiar with the basics. However, this experience has enabled me to directly learn in depth about the systems and processes.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience will positively impact my career goals by allowing me to increase my knowledge in criminology overall. I developed new skills and got familiar with an area of work that I have a particular interest in. Overall, this experience helped me understand the workings of what some lawyers do, and helped me realize that this type of work is something that I would definitely like to pursue in the near future.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Liberal Arts faculty have helped me make the most out of my internship. They have helped me identify the main learning objectives I should focus on as well as identify the transferable skills that I developed throughout this experience. They also taught me about networking and the importance of developing a strong professional relationship with my supervisor at Murtha Cullina LLP.

Liberal Arts Major: Communication Arts and Sciences
Hometown: Denver, Colorado
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I learned the ins and outs of the commercial real estate business while learning crucial skills such as underwriting, communication, and client management. One of the best experiences I have had while participating in my internship was being able to shadow the senior brokers. I was able to learn what clients are looking for in a property and to connect with some of the buyers in the market. It is crucial to learn these skills before entering into the business world.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This internship helped further my communication skills in a variety of ways. Talking and building relationships with clients is one of the keys to success in this field. If you are not personable with your clients, they may pursue another broker who they feel better meets their needs. Having an open and fluid line of communication is essential for creating lasting relationships within the business.

"This experience has allowed me to gain crucial knowledge and experience that will assist me when I enter the workforce."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience has allowed me to gain crucial knowledge and experience that will assist me when I enter the workforce. Being able to get a taste of the business has allowed me to set realistic goals such as making more that 15 deals a year and becoming a senior broker.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The Communication Arts and Sciences courses I have taken helped me a to create and maintain a very collaborative work environment.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Communication Arts and Sciences, Political Science  
Hometown: Clarksville, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer, I had the opportunity to intern with Healthy Democracy, a non-profit organization that aims to foster bipartisan deliberation and collaboration by bringing the diverse community of Oregon together to communicate effectively. Through my internship experience, I was given the chance to connect with public deliberation researchers and practitioners within the community, broaden the scope of my knowledge about the deliberation field. Much of my time was spent reviewing relevant literature and gaining awareness about the newly pertinent field of online deliberation.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I think this internship has been most impactful to my academic skill set because it has allowed me to improve upon my writing and reading comprehension skills, while also exposing me to relevant and interesting literature. Much of my job has consisted of reading and synthesizing literature, which has allowed me to practice reading critically and writing parsimoniously, which are both skills that are crucial to success within academia.

...it has given me the opportunity to connect with individuals who have jobs that align with my majors and interests. 

How will this experience impact your career goals?

As a senior this year, I went into this internship hoping that it would provide me with some clarity and insight about what jobs are available for people who are interested in work and research relating to the Political Science and Communication Art and Sciences disciplines. That is exactly what this internship has allowed me to accomplish, as it has given me the opportunity to connect with individuals who have jobs that align with my majors and interests. Being able to talk to those people about their work and the journeys that they took to get to the jobs they have has provided me with invaluable information and has been really inspiring to me as I begin to make plans for my own professional future.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I was awarded this internship through the Nevins Fellowship program, which is organized through the Liberal Arts class CAS 209: Democratic Leaders. The class focused on providing students with the knowledge and tools to work in democratic and deliberative settings and then provided students with funding to pursue an internship within democratic work. The class was taught by Dr. John Gastil, who not only ensured that it was informative and beneficial to those who felt they were ready to work in a professional environment, but was also engaging and fun. The class and Nevins Fellowship is an amazing opportunity for students to explore internship opportunities that they may not have had due to lack of personal funds or network and I am grateful to the College of the Liberal Arts and the Nevins Fellowship program for giving me and other students this opportunity.

For more information on internships for Liberal Arts students, visit our website. 

Liberal Arts Major(s): Communication Arts and Sciences
Minor: Political Science
Hometown: New York City, New York
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This internship has been a growing experience for me. I have learned the ins-and-outs of branding a business and how to successfully run one. The skills I acquired working with Melinda Maria will help me advance in all walks of life.

How did this experience impact you academically?

My internship has significantly improved my knowledge of social media marketing. I learned how to effectively attract customers to an ad, how to create them, and their importance. I also created content for the upcoming weeks and created an on-brand caption for our social media channels. Aside from this, I learned how to problem solve on a larger scale. I pushed myself to find the answers to my questions before going to my supervisor.

I learned how to problem-solve, help customers, create a product, advertise designs, and create a compelling brand. All of these skills will help me succeed in the future.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The lessons I learned and the skills I acquired from Melinda Maria will help in any field I hope to go into. I was working and learning in a variety of areas. I learned how to problem-solve, help customers, create a product, advertise designs, and create a compelling brand. All of these skills will help me succeed in the future.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of Liberal Arts has prepared me to effectively communicate. If it was not for the classes I was in, I would not have been as successful in my internship position. My classes were focused on communication, writing, and speaking articulately. Everything I learned from my classes helped me in this position.

For more information on internships for Liberal Arts students, visit our website. 

Liberal Arts Major(s): Letters, Arts, and Sciences
Minor: Labor Employment Relations
Hometown: Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I am learning how to run a small business. My internship consists of merchandising, buying, branding, and owning a business all-in-one. I am getting a one-on-one experience with this internship because Nicole does not employ anyone else other than herself. I am gaining knowledge and understanding of professional skills, good communication techniques, and branding ideas.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience changed my academic career. Being a Letters, Arts, and Sciences major, where I created my own major, this experience has been crucial. In order to be successful in the major that I created, I needed to show what exactly I want to do with it after I receive my degree. This internship has allowed me to gain knowledge and professional skills that I will hold onto for the rest of my life.

...this experience has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities and opportunities that there are in the fashion industry

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship has allowed me to gain knowledge about owning a business. While I may not have my own business in the future, the skills and knowledge I have acquired will be something I take with me into any business profession. I believe this experience has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities and opportunities that there are in the fashion industry and it is only expanding.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The advisors in the College of Liberal Arts helped me to succeed during this experience. During these unusual times, my advisors were willingly and open to answer my questions and help me succeed in this major. Their emails kept me informed and up-to-date and let me know what was going on in the college as well.

For more information on internships for Liberal Arts students, visit our website. 

Liberal Arts Major: Psychology
Hometown: Birdsboro, PA
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

Throughout the internship I have sat in on meetings with the full-time staff members who work with the basketball and soccer teams. I also am assigned to one full-time staff member whose primary sport is women's soccer. One project I have recently completed is an attendance analysis for the past six soccer seasons. I also learned how to use Adobe Photoshop.

How did this experience impact you academically?

So far this experience has not directly impacted me academically. However, because I am a psychology major, this internship has presented me with a very unique opportunity to see a different career path that interests me.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I think that after having this experience I might try to pursue a job in the field of sports marketing. I have always been very passionate about sports and this career path would give me an easy way to stay involved.

"I think that after having this experience I might try to pursue a job in the field of sports marketing."

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has helped me a lot by allowing me to do the internship while earning academic credit through LA 495. Without their help I would not have been able to participate and further my education.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Minor: Information Systems and Statistical Analysis
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer, I worked as a Business Analyst intern under the Information Systems Department at Meridian Bank, a commercial bank based in Malvern, Pennsylvania. As a virtual intern, I would often begin my workday at 9am by working on departmental tasks, such as data verification in Excel and analyzing reports in IBM Cognos. Right before noon, we would often have a few department meetings, where we discussed the bank's new projects. As I wrapped up my day around 5pm, I worked on intern tasks, such as attending book club, where we discussed chapter readings on a novel we were given to read. In addition, we had one in-person event, a community service project where we volunteered to clean up the Phoenixville community garden.

How did this experience impact you academically?

By being exposed to data programs such as IBM Cognos, SQL, and Microsoft Power BI, I will be able to transfer this experience towards my quantitative Economics courses, specifically econometric classes. This internship gave me a well-rounded perspective on data analysis that will enable me to quickly adapt to future courses. 

This internship gave me a well-rounded perspective on data analysis that will enable me to quickly adapt to future courses. 

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship further heightened my passion towards a career in banking, specifically anything regarding quantitative analysis. It has also sparked a curiosity in possibly attending grad school for quantitative finance in order to further pursue my education. 

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

This internship first began with my Liberal Arts mentor. I was initially unaware of the process of applying to internships, but my mentor helped guide me towards tailoring my resume and networking on LinkedIn. My mentor also encouraged me to attend Fall Career Days, where I was able to give my elevator speech to a worker at Meridian Bank, and the rest is history. 

Liberal Arts Major(s): Italian, Spanish
Minor: Portuguese
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I worked in a team with three other interns for DDAR virtually over the course of 3 weeks. During Monday through Friday, I worked on researching and writing a white paper detailing the creation of a digital fundraiser position at Penn State. On Fridays we attended virtual professional development workshops.

How did this experience impact you academically?

It made me realize the importance of continuing my education. Many of our mentors and coaches throughout the program encouraged us to pursue graduate studies, as it can equip us with the critical thinking skills necessary to be successful in higher education advancement.

I'm really passionate about justice and equity, and fundraising supports the causes that align with my values.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship has encouraged me to consider a career in development/advancement. I'm really passionate about justice and equity, and fundraising supports the causes that align with my values. As I enter my senior year, I now have another very feasible career path to consider following.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I heard about the internship via email, but my former English professor, Dr. Stephanie Scott, encouraged me to apply for the internship. The enrichment funds made this opportunity possible for me by helping to relieve the costs of living independently in State College over the summer.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

I love that the Paterno Fellows Program requires us Fellows to complete an internship and/or study abroad experience. Although I've already studied abroad, I thought about the values that the program practices and thought that I should not stop by merely satisfying the requirements. I wanted to really embrace the learning opportunities presented to me.

Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Minor: French and Francophone Studies and Applied Economics
Hometown: Bogota, Colombia
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I studied abroad in Paris at one of the IES study centers and was able to partake in an internship with Key Aid Consulting, a French consulting company.

How did this experience impact you academically?

As an international relations major, it is important for me to understand the dynamics between multiple countries, and to have at least a basic understanding of the nations I am particularly interested in. I gained a more thorough understanding and a different perspective on France and its relationship with Arab countries and with the European Union. Additionally, I was able to practice French like never before and I improved more by being in France for two months than I ever thought possible.

I now feel confident enough in my French that what was once a crazy idea of me living and working in France has become a possibility.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The prospect of working for a consulting firm caught my attention a while ago and in Paris I was able to do just that. Now I know what it is like to work in a consulting firm and I really enjoy it. Most importantly, I learned a lot about "Cash and Voucher Assistance," which is a modality used in humanitarian aid. Working in the humanitarian sector is a possibility for me, and if I decide to go that route, I will be an advocate for CVA because I believe it is the most effective, efficient, and beneficial assistance modality. Finally, I now feel confident enough in my French that what was once a crazy idea of me living and working in France has become a possibility.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

My advisor was of tremendous help to me, especially when it came to choosing which classes to enroll in, which can be tricky but of utmost importance. My French teachers were great and made sure I got the most out of each class by making sure classes were as interactive and engaging as possible. They also encouraged participation and welcomed new methods and students' comments on the class. This helped me because I was able to practice a lot and make many mistakes during classes, mistakes from which I learned. I also received enrichment funding for which I am grateful. I am appreciative of the College of Liberal Arts for having this initiative to aid students.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Criminology, Psychology
Minor: Sociology
Hometown: Commack, New York
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

As an intern, I had a virtual meeting every day where I met with ADAs in different units, such as human trafficking, domestic abuse, firearms trafficking, etc, to learn more about what they did. In addition, I attended arraignments virtually and wrote a policy paper on human trafficking education and prevention.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience impacted me academically because I was able to use what I had learned in class and apply it to real-life experiences and cases. I have also learned new information about the law that will help me in future classes.

This experience impacted me academically because I was able to use what I had learned in class and apply it to real-life experiences and cases.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This will impact my career goals because I learned a lot about the law and have networked with numerous people within Suffolk County.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts helped me find this internship because my Liberal Arts mentor and I brainstormed internship ideas together and the college helped me succeed because I was able to use the enrichment funds to buy business professional clothing.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Criminology
Minor: History
Hometown: Woodbridge, Connecticut
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

At the Center for Civic Design, I completed a research project that focused on voting rights after a criminal conviction.

How did this experience impact you academically?

From this experience, I learned how to conduct research on a large scale and present my findings.

I hope that I can use what I have learned during my fellowship to help improve the criminal justice system in the future.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

My internship has opened my eyes to the importance voting plays in our democracy. From my experience with the Center for Civic Design, I have learned that some citizens are denied the right to vote based on their criminal history and this can have major consequences for society as a whole. This is because civic engagement and voting can help create a successful reentry and reduce the likelihood of recidivism. I hope that I can use what I have learned during my fellowship to help improve the criminal justice system in the future.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The Career Enrichment Network has helped me with resumes, cover letters, and networking. Additionally, the Career Enrichment Network has helped me find opportunities in my field and prepare for interviews. I have also been assigned a mentor through the alumni mentor program, who has helped guide me through challenging career decisions.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology
Hometown: Needham, Massachusetts
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

Over summer 2020, I have interned for Riverside Community Care acting as a care coordinator. Through a contract with MassHealth, I work with qualified individuals to make progress towards goals that are important to them. In doing so, I collaborate with their providers to establish a care plan that works for them and their physical/mental health needs.

I have seen the impact of my work firsthand

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience has shown me the meaning of hard work. I have worked with a designated caseload throughout my internship where I have seen the impact of my work firsthand. This has motivated me to continue my education after my undergraduate studies, as this would allow for more certifications and opportunities to put myself in this position professionally.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This will impact my career goals because I understand what it is like to help an individual from my work. I want to work for the government to make organizational changes that can impact many individuals at once. This differs from my current role, as I am now only able to make a difference on an individual level.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has liberated me to make the most of this experience. I have been able to volunteer extra hours at my internship because I can afford my living expenses without working another job. This has also allowed me to allocate time to my schoolwork, as I was able to better plan my weeks surrounding my internship and school.

Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Minor: French, Digital Media Trends and Analytics
Hometown: Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

Social Enterprise Institute provides consulting for local nonprofit organizations by helping to create an earned revenue model. I conducted market research, wrote reports and data analyses, and helped to plan and implement their social media, including webinars and workshops.

This experience helped me understand what skillsets are most marketable to workplaces

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience helped me understand what skillsets are most marketable to workplaces and expanded my understanding of business, consulting, conducting market research, and writing reports that I covered briefly in classes. This opportunity also challenged my analytical and critical thinking skills, building upon what I learned my freshman year. I was able to use some of the transferrable skills that I learned within my freshman year through the College of the Liberal Arts.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Having an internship is the most important aspect of determining how my skillset is best used and what work and workplace I find most enjoyable and rewarding. Working for Social Enterprise Institute solidified that working with nonprofit organizations is rewarding for me, but I would also like to explore working in the public or governmental sector as well. Participating in an internship also builds my credibility with future employers, as I already have work experience.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I received enrichment funds, which helped me to have peace of mind when I had costs associated with my internship, such as traveling, my living situation, and much more. I am grateful that it was not a concern for me when many internships do not offer significant compensation.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

Though Paterno Fellows did not directly impact my chances at obtaining an internship, being a part of the program gave me an edge in the workplace, as it provided me with credentials that many other candidates did not have.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology 
Hometown: Frenchtown, New Jersey
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I worked this summer within UPenn's Department of Family Medicine and Community Health. The main project we worked on, HarvestRx, is an initiative aimed at meeting the food insecurity needs of prenatal women in the Philadelphia area. While working alongside physicians and MPHs, I participated in the preliminary planning process to get the project off the ground. I've truly enjoyed working alongside the team and doing what feels like grassroots level work. I'm excited to continue the experience in the fall as we enter the project's recruitment and data collection phases.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I’m someone with a firm belief in the power of experiential learning. Sometimes the best learning happens outside of the classroom. Ever since childhood, I’ve had the itch to explore new terrain. Working this summer allowed me to further explore the applied side of psychology, public health, and public policy. If anything, the experience has pushed me further in new directions. It’s instilled in me a newfound perspective on independent learning. Instead of waiting to be spoon-fed information, I’ve started to go to the library. And instead of being assigned homework to do, I’ve learned what it takes to create my own.

...experiences like this have helped me better understand how I can combine my background, unique interests, and character objectives to affect real change.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I've tried to think thoughtfully about each class I take and each experience I have. Experiences, both big and small, have a real impact on our future directions. But no matter what path I pursue, I hope to become someone who acts with kindness and knows how to communicate effectively. It's no easy undertaking, I know; however, experiences like this have helped me better understand how I can combine my background, unique interests, and character objectives to affect real change.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I take great pride in being a student of the College of the Liberal Arts. It's the entrepreneurial culture, the institution's ethos, and the students who have given me hope for the future. The enrichment funds have not just supported me financially, they've helped me in ways one cannot measure with money. The College has allowed me to realize that my goals—however quirky and farfetched—are possible.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology
Minor: Business in the Liberal Arts
Hometown: Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer, I spent my time working with the Beautiful Social Research Collaborative, a nonprofit-focused digital media consultancy. Working with the Beautiful Social Research Collaborative, I planned social media and website strategies, and wrote and edited materials for virtual and in-person academic workshops and presentations. Given the pandemic, I completed my internship virtually.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience challenged me to apply what I have learned in the classroom to areas outside of my major. During my time with the Beautiful Social Research Collaborative, I was able to specifically apply leadership psychology to an event that they hold yearly. Through this, my interest in the area of industrial and organizational psychology grew, due to the fact that I could take my skills into the real world and apply them to concrete issues.

This experience challenged me to apply what I have learned in the classroom to areas outside of my major.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Thanks to my internship with the Beautiful Social Research Collaborative, I have solidified the idea that I want to work in a role that somehow leaves a positive impact on the world, as well as the fact that I want to work in the world of industrial and organizational psychology. Being able to apply my psychological interests in a meaningful way has enabled me to further determine where I want to go career-wise. I have also learned I can incorporate my love for volunteerism, service, and psychology into my professional life.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts provided me with funding for my unpaid internship, which enabled me to accept the offer. As someone who typically works during the summer, being without a source of income was far from ideal. Due to the funding I received, I felt comfortable accepting the offer and was able to gain a meaningful professional experience.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program focuses on service and communication (among other goals), both of which I too was able to focus on during my time with the Beautiful Social Research Collaborative. Working with a nonprofit media consultancy, I gained the valuable skills of learning how to communicate effectively though social media and websites, as well as how to communicate in an academic setting, via academic conferences. Applying these skills to a nonprofit setting was extremely valuable to me, and I look forward to applying my skills to other endeavors in the future.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Criminology
Other Major: Master of Public Policy (integrated undergraduate-graduate program)
Minor: Communications Arts and Sciences, Rhetoric
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

Ameelio is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide free communication between families and their incarcerated loved ones. With the title of Growth Manager, I managed diversity growth within the user base by collaborating with historically black colleges and universities and their corresponding campus newspapers. I also led a successful Maryland Outreach Project in which local user growth experienced a 200% increase. In addition, I identified partnership opportunities within the criminal justice academic and professional community through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls, emails, and client visits. Finally, I utilized marketing strategies for client acquisition, interviewed users to determine areas of improvement, and collaborated with senior management and other marketing teammates to align our internal goals with new and existing partner relationships.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I have learned a lot through this internship. My internship with Ameelio involved a lot of research components, including, but not limited to, researching communication and mail policies in prisons, effective outreach and marketing strategies, and the impact of costly prison communication on families. One of the biggest things I have learned is how expensive communication is in the prison system and how much there is a need for something like Ameelio's free communication service.

...my experience with Ameelio has increased my curiosity and passion for advocacy work.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

In terms of career goals, my experience with Ameelio has increased my curiosity and passion for advocacy work. I loved helping people and hearing the stories of others. Part of my duties was doing in-person outreach. I was in the heart of Baltimore talking to those who have been impacted by crime and know firsthand how expensive communication with an incarcerated loved one can be. One of the most impactful experiences I had is when a 16-year-old boy came up to me while I was tabeling. He told me both of his older brothers were in prison and his family can't afford to communicate with them. He thanked me for Ameelio's service and said it will be a life-saver for his family.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The enrichment funds helped me tremendously as I had to get a new computer and upgrade my wifi to keep up with the constant technological requirements.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Global and International Studies
Other Major: Supply Chain Management and Information Systems
Minor: International Business
Hometown: Export, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer I have been working as an Indirect Procurement Intern at Estee Lauder. Though the program was forced to be conducted remotely due to COVID-19, I have spent six weeks learning about the company culture, indirect procurement as a whole, and specifically, the role of sustainability within the company's strategy.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience has given me a deeper understanding of procurement, a core competency and major class within my major of Supply Chain. Additionally, because I worked on the travel procurement team within a large multinational company, I was able to understand business functions from a more global perspective supporting my second major of Global Studies.

...it has been very influential for me to meet and network with leaders working cross-functionally and in a global capacity

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This has impacted my career goals by enlightening me on how broad an area indirect procurement is. I have learned of many areas within this function that are of interest to me that I didn't know about before. Additionally, it has been very influential for me to meet and network with leaders working cross-functionally and in a global capacity.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Having the funds from the College of the Liberal Arts has helped me cover my living expenses during these extenuating circumstances. Although the funding is not paying for my apartment in New York City as I had originally expected, I am using the funds to live with my sister and cover my bills while there.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The emphasis of the Paterno Fellows Program on outside enrichment experiences since my entrance to the program has greatly encouraged me to pursue opportunities like this one and the funding provided from the college has enabled me to follow this dream of working here.

Liberal Arts Major(s): English
Minor: Political Science
Hometown: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I am working as a Field Organizing Intern for PA Auditor General Eugene DePasquale's U.S. Congressional campaign in PA's 10th Congressional district, which is one of the most contentious and highly-funded elections in the country. In this role, I'm calling independent voters to persuade them to vote for Eugene, working with regional Democratic partners to arrange and manage voter registration drives, and co-leading a volunteer op-ed writing initiative, for which we train voters on how to write favorable political commentaries and submit them to local and regional newspapers.

How did this experience impact you academically?

As an English major, this experience impacted me academically by refining my writing and speaking skills in a dynamic, real-world, and high-stakes Congressional campaign environment, where I had to survey the competitive landscape and respond on the fly with written and verbal persuasive arguments--whether to appeal to a general audience via newspaper or win an individual vote one-on-one. As an English major who is also pursuing a minor in Political Science, this experience also furthered my academic goals of learning about the political process in a way that will prove invaluable in the future. As our communications director, Kunal, once said, "You can't do anything in the campaign world unless you've been a field organizer. Otherwise, none of it makes sense."

I have gained the experience and made the connections that will advance my career substantially in the political world.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Over the past two summers, I have worked for local and state-wide Democratic Committees, but my internship for Eugene DePasquale for Congress was my entry into politics with federal consequences. After completing my internship, I have gained the experience and made the connections that will advance my career substantially in the political world.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

It is due to the generosity of a donor who provided me with financial assistance in the form of enrichment funding that I was able to complete my unpaid, yet invaluable, internship this summer, which otherwise would not have been possible.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Global and International Studies, Political Science
Hometown: Waynesboro, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I worked under the guidance of an immigration lawyer to fill out paperwork, interview clients, and compile documents in order to help refugees attain citizenship.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I learned much more about the legal system in this country which is extremely beneficial to me because I plan on attending law school.

I learned much more about the legal system in this country which is extremely beneficial to me because I plan on attending law school.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Two career areas I am considering are government and immigration law. Having experience working with refugees will help me craft policies based on a first hand understanding of the US immigration system if I am involved in government in the future. Additionally, I am working under the direct supervision of a lawyer who is practicing the type of career I would want if I were to be involved in immigration law.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I have been given a scholarship to help cover the cost of the Penn State course that I am paying for in order to get credit for this internship.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Other Major: Finance
Hometown: Allentown, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer, I interned with Liberty Mutual Insurance, and more specifically with the Investments division. I worked mainly with the Global Fixed Income team and traders, learning about the investment portfolio and the credit market. I was also involved with new issue orders, project planning, data analysis, and credit research.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I was deeply immersed into the world of fixed income. At Penn State, I previously only had experience with the public equity market through the Nittany Lion Fund, so to be working with the Global Fixed Income team and following the markets daily (especially during the pandemic and the recent bounce-back rally) was really interesting. I also learned about other areas of investing, which means that I will return to campus with not just a better theoretical knowledge of finance and economics, but also a practical one.

I also learned about other areas of investing, which means that I will return to campus with not just a better theoretical knowledge of finance and economics, but also a practical one.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship was crucial to my career goals. As someone who strives to enter the financial services industry, understanding debt and the credit market is highly important. Additionally, to have a brand name and detailed experience on my resume as a rising junior will only make me a more unique candidate for future positions, and show the passion and knowledge I have for economics and finance.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I think the main benefit of the college has been through taking a course on International Trade, and through the enrichment funds provided. The financial support really helped in making things more available to me, such as being able to afford an additional mouse and keyboard, which may sound trivial, but ended up being the most vital pieces of equipment I used. Ordinarily, such equipment would not be in my overall budget.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Criminology
Hometown: Monmouth County, New Jersey
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

The National Security and Intelligence Summer Program is affiliated with the Intelligence Community Centers for Academic Excellence Program, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and co-hosted by Penn State’s Center for Security Research and Education and the Applied Research Laboratory. Students in the program have the ability to hone in on research and education that centers around becoming a national security professional and a well-rounded intelligence risk analyst.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience allowed me to put all of the skills I learned in the classroom to use. It was an amazing opportunity that challenged me and educated me as a person.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience was the perfect stepping stone for my career because it allowed me to hone the skills I had learned in the classroom and apply them to my field. 

This experience was the perfect stepping stone for my career because it allowed me to hone the skills I had learned in the classroom and apply them to my field. During my internship, I was able to read more books that pertained to certain security topics and I perfected my ability to analyze.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has really helped me gain not only this experience, but also my extracurriculars at school. My advisor is always extremely willing to help me and the staff is nothing but supportive and compassionate.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Other Major: Community, Environment, and Development
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer, I had the opportunity to work (remotely, due to the COVID-19 pandemic) with WasteZero’s Pay-As-You-Throw municipal waste reduction program as their summer 2020 intern. My projects included researching gaps in household level waste data, as well as designing a marketing strategy for their Benefit-Corporation status in order to successfully obtain funding from investors dedicated to B-corps with environmental and social governance principles. My internship also included fully redesigning WasteZero’s website and program materials, such as communicating how their curbside waste reductions program functions and how it is funded.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience was very informative on an academic level because it allowed me to hone my research, writing, and communication skills.

This internship will help bolster my career in the environmental realm. It also provided me a real-world experience within a company that aligns with my interests.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship will help bolster my career in the environmental realm. It also provided me a real-world experience within a company that aligns with my interests. Being an intern at WasteZero exposed me to a professional environment that expanded my knowledge of running a company that works in the sustainable development industry, provided me with the data management skills I need to effectively communicate and analyze company results, allowed me to hone my marketing and communication skills when interacting with stakeholders and company partners, and provided me with a leg-up for my future goals of working in environmental law and investment programs. This internship also helped me understand the ins and outs of local public utility programs, which are essential intervention points in achieving more sustainable communities; something that is integral to my professional goals.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of Liberal Arts' Summer Enrichment Funding program provided me with generous funding to help me participate in this unpaid internship.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Anthropology, History, Jewish Studies
Minor: Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies
Hometown: Philipsburg, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer, I worked as the virtual Curatorial Affairs intern for the Tennessee Holocaust Commission. My work consisted of transcribing letters and documents, conducting research for upcoming exhibits and programs, and creating educational curriculum for the Commission’s current Living On exhibit. I also participated in weekly professional development workshops and had the opportunity to speak with different museum and non-profit professionals.

How did this experience impact you academically?

My work this summer allowed me to develop a deeper connection with the history of the Holocaust and survivor testimonies. While it is crucial to know the history of the Holocaust and learn about it in a classroom setting, this summer made me realize the importance of connecting the history of the Holocaust back to the testimonies of individual Holocaust victims and survivors. I will continue to take classes about the Holocaust at Penn State, but my experience this summer has encouraged me to continue to seek out individual stories that I might not necessarily learn about in class.

My internship this summer reaffirmed my passion for Holocaust education and its continued remembrance; however, the weekly professional development workshops allowed me to expand my career interests.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Prior to this summer, I only wanted to pursue a career as a Museum Educator at a Holocaust or Jewish history museum. My internship this summer reaffirmed my passion for Holocaust education and its continued remembrance; however, the weekly professional development workshops allowed me to expand my career interests. While I am still interested in pursuing work in the field of museum education, speaking with various museum professionals this summer allowed me to realize that I can still work in museum education, but I have more career options than just as a Museum Educator.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

This summer I was supposed to be interning in Berlin, but the cancellation of that program due to COVID-19 in mid-March had me in a panic. The Career Enrichment Network, however, was able to provide guidance and advice that helped me devise a plan for applying to domestic internships. I am very appreciative of their help and encouragement, which allowed me to find this internship.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

I am extremely grateful for the funding the Paterno Fellows program provided me. Their financial support allowed me to participate in this internship and gain such a valuable summer experience.

Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Minor: Russian
Hometown: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I was scheduled to complete an internship at a gender-based violence NGO in Cape Town, South Africa this summer, which was unfortunately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I was fortunate enough to intern with Mosaic remotely this summer. I worked on developing their online counseling program, creating gender-based violence workshop manuals, and updating their evaluation and monitoring documents pre- and post-services.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I conducted a lot of research into gender-based violence and how it affects different demographics of adult women, youth, and men. I worked on my technical writing while creating manuals for workshops and counseling content, which was a different type of writing than I have ever engaged in before.

I have always wanted to work on issues affecting women's political and social rights, so I hope to use this experience as my first step into working on these issues professionally.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience gave me a window into working on GBV issues in an international context. I have always wanted to work on issues affecting women's political and social rights, so I hope to use this experience as my first step into working on these issues professionally.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has always been a support for me professionally and financially. As this was a part-time position with a time difference, I was unable to work in the summer. The College provided much needed enrichment funds that allowed me to live throughout the summer without worrying about finances.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program always encourages students to pursue professional opportunities that enrich you as a student and young professional. I have always felt that encouragement to look beyond myself and see how I can challenge myself in the ways the Paterno Fellows Program expects of its students.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Global and International Studies, Labor and Employment Relations, Latin American Studies, Spanish
Minor: Portuguese
Hometown: Port Matilda, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

Trafika Europe is an online literary site that features contemporary European writing in modern English translations. This past May, Trafika Europe launched Trafika Europe Radio, the very first European “literary” radio station. The organization seeks to maintain a literate, creative space where writers, publishers, translators, and readers can interact beyond borders. As an Editorial and Outreach Intern, I helped foster collaborations with universities, newspapers, and cultural networks across the 47 countries in the Council of Europe in order to promote the content and mission of Trafika Europe Radio.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Although I have always appreciated the art of storytelling, my love for reading faded when I came to college. My internship with Trafika Europe refreshed my passion for literature and introduced me to authors from across the globe. One of my tasks was to edit interviews and excerpts from European writers. This experience not only gave me the practical skill of transcription, but it also allowed me to explore unique perspectives through analyzing texts. It taught me academic skills such as critical thinking, comprehension, and close-reading. I also was responsible for contacting cultural centers and media outlets about partnership or publicity opportunities. This task improved my ability to convey ideas in a clear manner both verbally and through written communication.

My internship with Trafika Europe Radio helped further my cultural competency and overall understanding of the diverse identities represented throughout Europe. This experience reaffirmed my passion for global awareness and diplomacy.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

My experience with Trafika Europe Radio has solidified my career goals. In five years, I see myself working for the federal government in a position related to human rights, international development, or global workers’ advocacy. In order to achieve and excel in those fields, it is vital to have a developed knowledge of history, literature, and foreign affairs. My internship with Trafika Europe Radio helped further my cultural competency and overall understanding of the diverse identities represented throughout Europe. This experience reaffirmed my passion for global awareness and diplomacy.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has allowed me to explore a variety of interests without feeling pressured to commit to a particular discipline. I have been afforded the opportunity to hold multiple concurrent majors within the College of the Liberal Arts, all of which complement each other in unique and enriching ways. All of my advisors have been supportive of my ambition both in and out of the classroom; they have provided me with the tools and resources I need to succeed as a student at Penn State.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program has supported me in all of my ambitions whether they be related to research, study abroad, or internships. I found Trafika Europe Radio through the Undergraduate Research and Fellowships Mentoring Office, which was highlighted in a weekly newsletter that PFP sends out to admitted students. Their emails are consistently full of amazing opportunities for every interest and background.

Paterno Fellow helps launch first European literary radio station

Liberal Arts Major(s): Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Minor: Global Health
Hometown: Washington, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I am currently a community development intern at the American Cancer Society, representing the Greater Pittsburgh Region. Although my internship experience is virtual, I still believe I am getting the full experience, as I still get to work on community projects, engage with my supervisor and my fellow employees, and advocate for cancer research. Through volunteer and group management, social media administration, and community outreach, I have been helping individual Relay for Life teams join forces with one another in order to foster an inclusive, tight-knit, cancer-fighting community - even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This internship has allowed me to take information I have learned in both liberal arts and biobehavioral health settings and apply it to real-life issues.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This internship has allowed me to take information I have learned in both liberal arts and biobehavioral health settings and apply it to real-life issues. Even though I am still in the midst of my internship, I can feel my confidence, knowledge, and capability growing, which I can then translate into the rest of my academic studies and my future career endeavors.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

As a women's, gender, & sexuality studies major and a global health minor, I hope to pursue health advocacy - especially for women and LGBTQIA+ people - as a career. The American Cancer Society has reaffirmed my interest in pursuing a healthcare-oriented career. The organization has also allowed me to become more immersed in the promotion of healthcare research, which is something that I may want to engage in during my post-grad career.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The PSU College of Liberal Arts has not only supported me in finding internship opportunities, but also in succeeding in them. My current Internship Experience course (LA 495) has kept me on track with my internship duties, and it has also allowed me to track my progress, interests, and goals.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Communication Arts and Sciences
Minor: Kinesiology
Hometown: Dillsburg, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

Over the past two months I have had a wonderful experience working under and shadowing Scott Sidwell. He has forced me to ask questions I never would have thought to answer and allowed me to research the athletic department and opportunities to improve the way the athletic department functions. I am given a new brand of the department to research each week.

[This internship] was one of the most impactful experiences if not THE most impactful experience I have had in my four years at Penn State.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Being a senior, I have a complete understanding of how to use my time wisely. Even though there was thorough research that needed to be done by both Tuesday and Thursday each week, it did not have a negative effect on my other classes. Overall, from a learning perspective, having ideas, creativity, and the ability to think critically were vital within my internship. Therefore, it was one of the most impactful experiences if not THE most impactful experience I have had in my four years at Penn State.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Working alongside multiple individuals who have endless experience within the athletic department is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I want to be involved with athletics for the rest of my life, whether it is working directly with student-athletes in welfare and development or within the external or internal operations side of things where I can create and observe objectives for the school I work at. Either way I am making connections and learning things I have never known, all while being forced to think critically.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I found the internship by myself using the connections I made over the past four years within the athletic department at Penn State. However, my athletic academic advisor, Joey Ianiero, posed it as a possibility which became a reality.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Political Science
Minor: French, Business with the Liberal Arts
Hometown: Collegeville, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

Starting in May 2020 up until the election in November, I interned virtually with the Centre County Democratic Committee to spread democratic ideologies, get out the vote, and promote endorsed candidates. At first, I did voter/donor research, wrote call scripts, phone banked, created newsletters, designed mailers, and created content for their social medias. About halfway through my internship, I was given the opportunity to lead a Social and Digital Media Task Team that ran the CCDC's social media accounts and develop strategies to spread our message (in addition to my previous responsibilities). I managed a team of over 30 volunteers that researched issues, created digital content, and followed a post schedule.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience was a great opportunity to take what I've learned so far in my classes and apply it to a real life election. I used what I learned about game theory and campaigning in my classes to develop strategies to promote our endorsed candidates. I also used communication skills that I learned in my ethics classes to create calls to action. This experience showed me how the concepts I learned in classes can be applied in real life scenarios.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I've always wanted a career in politics, though I was never quite sure what facet of politics that would be in. This experience impacted my career goals immensely, it showed me that I might want to pursue a career in campaigning.

This experience was a great opportunity to take what I've learned so far in my classes and apply it to a real life election.

I really enjoyed the fast pace nature of the job, and I loved getting to work with volunteers/voters and candidates alike. This internship also gave me the opportunity to advocate for what I believe in and influence others, which is extremely important to me. After I graduate, I would love to continue working in campaigning and social/digital media management and content creation.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Around the same time I was applying for this internship, I was matched with my mentor through the Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program. He really encouraged me to go for it and he gave me tips for my application and edited my resume for me.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows program gave me the knowledge and coursework to really excel in this internship. If it weren't for my honors and ethics coursework, I don't think my work with their social media would have been as effective.

Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Minor: Arabic, Spanish, Middle Eastern Studies
Hometown: State College, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

As an undergraduate research assistant in the Children, Media, and Conflict Zones lab, I conducted research on how children living in conflict zones can use different media to create change. I also studied how Sahrawi youth living in refugee camps in Algeria receive an education and how they often have to leave their homes at a young age to study abroad in order to complete their education.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Through my research, I have learned about different cultures that I had never been exposed to before. As a result, I have become more aware of different issues and potential solutions that are not often addressed, such as how to provide an education for children who live in refugee camps or how media may be used to help children of disenfranchised groups advocate for themselves in conflict zones.

Before working as an undergraduate research assistant, I had no interest in attending graduate school, but after this experience I have decided I would like to pursue a master’s degree.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Before working as an undergraduate research assistant, I had no interest in attending graduate school, but after this experience I have decided I would like to pursue a master’s degree. I learned that a lot of important change in policy can be guided by research, particularly in the social sciences.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has helped me in many ways. Faculty in the College have helped me develop my writing and research skills, which allowed me to apply to this experience. The College has also supported me by providing me with funding to work in the lab.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

Through the honors curriculum of the Paterno Fellows Program, I was able to gain the reading and writing skills necessary to work in a lab. Additionally, the faculty I met through these courses provided me with advice and support as I searched for research opportunities and continued to provide support as I was working.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Minor: Business in the Liberal Arts
Hometown: Doylestown, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I was a Target Store Leadership intern this past summer. I worked at the store-front in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and was paired with an Executive Team Lead. She acted as my mentor throughout the whole process. I worked in the speciality sale department and assisted a team of 30 team members, merchandized clothing to drive sales, and learned the overall process of what it takes to run a Target store.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience put a lot of the concepts I was learning at the academic level into action. I learned about how different supply chain channels affect the business, different requirements Target Headquarters sends out to their stores, how to analyze sales, and how to drive those sales through merchandizing the store. I also learned how the basic structure of running a Target works, like how the HR teams makes the schedule and deals with conflict, and how we process sales based on the hour, day, week, month, and quarter and how that affects the processes going on at the store-front level.

I learned a lot about how to run a business, especially in retail, and it has encouraged me to pursue a retail job at the corporate level to bring the skills I have learned at the store-front level to the bigger picture.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I learned a lot about how to run a business, especially in retail, and it has encouraged me to pursue a retail job at the corporate level to bring the skills I have learned at the store-front level to the bigger picture.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I used Nittany Lion Careers to find this opportunity. I met with a Liberal Arts career coach about three times throughout the fall semester of 2019 to go over my resume and to find the best avenues to get this internship. I also took advantage of Liberal Arts Career week, especially the employer resume reviews. I found that to be one of the most helpful things to utilize because you have an employer looking directly at your application, telling you what they are expecting, and giving you extra tips to help you stand out.

Liberal Arts Major(s): English
Minor: French
Hometown: State College, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I worked as an intern for The Hemingway Letters Project, which is producing a comprehensive, scholarly edition of all of Ernest Hemingway's letters, being published by Cambridge University Press. I searched primary (such as online sale listings of letters and auction catalogs) and secondary sources for letters by Hemingway that have never been published before, as well as letters that have been published but are not yet accounted for in our master archive. After finding these letters, I accessioned them, which is assigning each letter a code and uploading the letter to an electronic archive. In addition to accessioning, I updated a comprehensive bibliography, scanned multiple primary and secondary source documents for use by researchers, and authenticated Hemingway quotes.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I was able to earn academic credit for the internship, which helped me complete requirements for my major. In addition, I was able to learn more about a well-known author who is a large part of American history and literature, an author whose work I had read in my high school English classes.

Through this internship I was able to see a lot of the small but vital parts that go into publishing a book... This experience has further prepared me for the editing and publishing world in which I want to pursue a career.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Through this internship I was able to see a lot of the small but vital parts that go into publishing a book, specifically an academic and scholarly one. This experience has further prepared me for the editing and publishing world in which I want to pursue a career.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Dr. Verna Kale, Assistant Research professor of English at Penn State and the Associate Editor of the Project, helped me succeed through training me to work as an intern, explaining things to me when I didn't fully understand something, answering any questions I had, and checking up on me and how I was doing with the work. The Enrichment funds helped me through covering some of the expenses that came with working for the Project, such as the internet bill since I worked remotely, and the tuition cost since I was able to get academic credit for the internship.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Criminology, Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Minor: English
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Fall 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

For the last three months, I have served as a writer with the Borgen Project. A non-profit organization based in Seattle, Washington, the mission of the Borgen Project is to alleviate extreme poverty around the world by making the issue a focus of American policy. I have published several articles on an array of topics and have raised $500 to support lobbyists and those doing the work on the ground in impoverished countries. I have called, emailed, and written my Congressional representatives urging them to support legislation to benefit those living below the poverty line.

I thought I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my career, but this internship changed that...the work and research that I have done over the last 12 weeks has shown me that I want to expand my research and lesson plans to incorporate foreign studies and policies.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I have learned so much through this experience. I have always been an advocate for helping those in need, but after this internship, I am able to provide concrete reasons as to why we should assist third-world countries. Such as, providing access to modern medicine controls the population, countries that can properly educate their youth are less likely to become terrorist nations, the more countries that rise above the poverty line are more potential trading partners for the United States, and the list goes on and on. International affairs mirror so much of American society and I am so lucky to have learned as much as I did.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I thought I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my career, but this internship changed that. I still plan on doing research and teaching--that much has stayed the same; however, the work and research that I have done over the last 12 weeks has shown me that I want to expand my research and lesson plans to incorporate foreign studies and policies.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I was lucky enough to be a recipient of Liberal Arts Enrichment Funding! This internship required each of its interns to raise $500 to be put towards lobbying and medical advances for impoverished communities. The funding I received helped boosted me to meet that $500 goal.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Anthropology, Communication Arts and Sciences
Minor: French
Hometown: Brewster, New York
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

For the Spring semester I am working alongside Barb Edwards, Jeremy Engels, and the rest of the Paterno Fellows Program staff as a social media coordinator. My responsibilities include designing and publishing social media promoting the program's events and opportunities on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. As the PFP social media intern, I have the opportunity to see how professional social media accounts are run and how to create impactful and engaging social media campaigns.

I am able to develop real life experience that will help me enhance my skills and forward my career.

How did this experience impact you academically?

As a Communication Arts and Sciences major, I am able to put skills I've developed in the classroom to use with this internship. It's one thing to learn what is most effective and engaging in online communication, but it's a wonderful opportunity to put that knowledge to work and support the Paterno Fellows Program in the meantime.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

After graduation, I hope to enter the nonprofit workforce in the capacity of a development associate whose responsibilities include designing and managing social media content to promote the organization's mission. As the PFP social media intern this semester, I am able to develop real life experience that will help me enhance my skills and forward my career.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I've been fortunate to have been awarded compensation from the Liberal Arts Enrichment Funds so that I am able to dedicate my time and skills to this internship.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

As a Paterno Fellow myself, it has been very rewarding to work behind the scenes as the PFP social media intern and to understand the important behind-the-scenes logistics of running the program. During my time working with the Paterno Fellows Program, I hope I will help in bringing this community of Fellows together, highlighting the program's incredible opportunities for current and future Fellows, and celebrating my Paterno Fellow peers.

Liberal Arts Major(s): German, Global and International Studies
Minor: Economics
Hometown: Ecuador
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

As an assistant project manager at ICOPMED, I was in charge of structuring the central format of a new study abroad program to Ecuador that would be hosted by TurisConsulting, one of the sub-companies of the firm. For this project, I connected the company with possible host institutions like the State University of Cuenca and also negotiated with other tourism agents for the extracurricular activities from the program. Additionally, I translated the companies' websites from Spanish into English.

During this internship, I learned how to properly communicate with clients and business partners.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Working 15 hours a week did not seem like a significant distraction for me. While in the first month of January my class duties and work responsibilities did not interfere with each other, once I started to have exams and major school assignments, my day would fly by. This internship quickly taught me to strengthen my time management skills, and I learned that sometimes I needed to give up extracurricular activities, like social gatherings, in order to manage all my academic and work obligations.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

During this internship, I learned how to properly communicate with clients and business partners. I would prepare all the information necessary for the meeting, call, or conference and make sure I answered people's questions while documenting any information my supervisor asked me to get.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

My adviser, Tom Spencer, guided me through the various options that I had for internships as the pandemic canceled my initial plans of going abroad and also completing an internship experience in Dublin. He made sure to put me in contact with the appropriate person to request approval for my internship for LA 495.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

Through the Paterno Fellows Program, I learned about LA 495, which allowed me to complete this internship for credit even though the internship was a non-Penn State option.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Communication Arts and Sciences
Hometown: Marlboro, New Jersey
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I have the opportunity to work with many of the most popular influencers and music artists. I help to control their social media profiles, write copy for the Universal Music Group social media platforms, and help with promotional campaigns for music artists.

Working at CrowdSurf has given me the necessary experience and tools to succeed no matter where I land.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Writing copy for UMG has impacted me the most academically because it has made me an overall better writer. This experience has not negatively impacted my academics because the supervisors at CrowdSurf are very accommodating. They understand that I am a student first and will give me all of the necessary time that I need to complete my schoolwork. 

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience has opened the doors to the entertainment industry as a whole. I am not sure exactly what it is I desire to do in this field, however, working at CrowdSurf has given me the necessary experience and tools to succeed no matter where I land.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Faculty here at Penn State, especially Dr. Peter Miraldi, have been very helpful! I required internship credit in order to participate at CrowdSurf, and Dr. Miraldi helped me get it very quickly and smoothly!

Liberal Arts Major(s): English
Other Major: Physics
Hometown: State College, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I searched for and accessioned documents for the Hemingway Letters Project, a multi-institutional effort to publish Ernest Hemingway's letters. My internship duties also included compiling resources to produce a detailed log of Hemingway's life, attending project meetings, and lightly proofreading documents; highlights included locating a forged letter, learning delightful fun facts about Hemingway and his four wives, and finding an auction listing for a very expensive fishing cap.

How did this experience impact you academically?

The work I did for the project was detail-intensive, requiring acute attention to clues in documents and instructions. The onus was on me to get each detail right, every time; this project developed a rigorous, analytical approach and special kind of attention which I look forward to using on future English projects, essays, and research.

The internship gave me a small glimpse of the work that goes into the collecting, editing, and publishing of a large-scale academic text.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The internship gave me a small glimpse of the work that goes into the collecting, editing, and publishing of a large-scale academic text. I was drawn to the project because I was curious about the process (and Hemingway, of course); I learned a tremendous amount about the versatile, detail-oriented systems required to publish a new volume of letters, an interesting set of skills which will hopefully be useful if I ever publish a peer-reviewed, academic text.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I found a flier for the internship while wandering around Burrowes as a freshman (when wandering in person was still something one could do) -- I immediately reached out to the contact in the English department, who was incredibly kind and helpful. I also received help from the department's internship coordinator, who read a number of resume drafts (some quite messy) and pointed me in the right direction. I was also awarded enrichment funds which partially offset the cost of academic credits for the internship and reallocation of time.

Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Other Major: Journalism
Hometown: Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I am working as a live video production intern for Penn State Athletics. I learned how to use professional video cameras, operate replay and director's board, as well as chyron. The experience has been positive so far, and I enjoy going to the games.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I learned a lot about video production that will add to my experience and enhance my résumé. Video production, depending on the position that you are in, can be very fast-paced. Knowing how to handle multitasking is important.

"I hope that with this experience, I will become more marketable for the workforce and a stronger candidate."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

To achieve my dream job and work as a communications officer for UNHCR, I needed to be proficient in live video production, as this is a requirement for the job. I hope that with this experience, I will become more marketable for the workforce and a stronger candidate.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts helped me by providing an enrichment fund. This internship is unpaid, and the support you have provided helped me fund this amazing experience.

Liberal Arts Major(s): German, Sociology
Other Major: International Affairs
Hometown: Dongguan, China
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

In this internship, I completed project reports for the company, conducted research for the organization, and transferred reports from articles into reportable formats using Canva, which is a new application that I learned to use during the internship. This provided me with insights into the internal arrangements of a nonprofit organization.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience aided my academic experience because it has shown me why certain things taught in class are important to learn, and it is also rewarding when I applied skills I learned in class into this internship.

"It showed me a glimpse of what it is like to work in a professional sphere in a nonprofit organization..."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The internship experience has been a truly special experience for me. It showed me a glimpse of what it is like to work in a professional sphere in a nonprofit organization, and it has helped me explore potential career paths I can take in the future.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has financially aided me during the completion of this internship (since it is an internship that I would have needed to pay to be a part of). It has significantly helped lower the financial burden on me especially during the pandemic, so that I can focus on completing the internship without stressing, doubting, or questioning whether it was worth it financially to complete this internship.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Hometown: Ardmore, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

Joining the Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program was single-handedly the best decision I made in my four years at the university. I was lost in my career journey and joining the program allowed me to not only make lifelong connections, but also allowed me to find direction in my career.

How did this experience impact you academically?

My mentor and I were focused mainly on my career goals as I joined as a second semester senior, but my mentor was there for me to answer any questions I had about school and provided great resources within the university which allowed me to succeed further in my studies.

"Joining the Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program was single-handedly the best decision I made in my four years at the university."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience was the sole determinant of my career path. My mentor and I met every Thursday where she introduced me to members of her network who gave me advice about my resume, interview tactics, and planned out my job search approach. This all led me to finding a position with a great company, and one that I am excited to begin.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts paired me with Marcy and that was the biggest help of all. I think I lucked out with getting paired with her as I have now found a great connection for future advice, but I also found a great friend as well.

Liberal Arts Major(s): English
Minor: Communication Arts and Sciences, Women's Studies
Hometown: Minersville, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This semester, I had been meeting with my mentor, Linda Belfus, who has been one of the most helpful mentors I've had at Penn State. She's helped me grow my network by putting me in contact with her other mentees, who have shared their experiences with the program with me and shared career advice with me as well. Linda has also helped me tailor my resume to fit my career interests.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience has impacted me academically by showing me how important it is to take classes you enjoy but that also could prepare you for your potential future career. It has also shown me how important it is to build a network at Penn State so that you have time to develop and hone these relationships.

"It has shown me how important it is to build a network at Penn State so that you have time to develop and hone these relationships."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience has impacted my career goals by helping me prep for interviews, giving me career advice, etc. that has changed the trajectory (in the best way) of what career I see myself pursuing. I initially thought I wanted to pursue a career in publishing or journalism, but I think I see myself heading into marketing or advertising post-graduation.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I found out about this experience on the College of the Liberal Arts website. The College of the Liberal Arts helped me succeed in this experience through the help of Lauren Granese. Lauren has been such a great resource for me to have over the last year; she is always able to answer any questions I have or point me in the right direction. She has been just as crucial to me having a positive experience with the Alumni Mentor Program as has my mentor, Linda Belfus.

Liberal Arts Major: Criminology
Minor: Security and Risk Analysis
Hometown: Poolesville, Maryland
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

In the fall of my freshman year I applied to be matched with an alumni mentor. I filled out a survey about myself and my goals and a couple months later I was matched with an attorney in Pittsburgh. We have called on the phone multiple times and generally email back and forth when I have questions about the criminal justice field. It has been a really great experience and excellent practice in networking!

"My mentor has been a terrific help with guiding my choices of coursework and offers great encouragement."

How did this experience impact you academically?

My mentor has been a terrific help with guiding my choices of coursework and offers great encouragement.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

My mentor has connected me with professionals in the legal field from detectives to the Attorney General of Pennsylvania. She even went above and beyond and helped me obtain a virtual internship with the Office of the Attorney General (PA). I know I can depend on her for career guidance or networking.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of Liberal Arts Career Enrichment Network matched me with my mentor and many other alumni who have valuable experiences to my goals!

Liberal Arts Major(s): Chinese
Minor: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Hometown: Oradell, New Jersey
Experience Time: Summer 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I was paired and networked with mentor Benjamin Stewart, a Liberal Arts alumnus who graduated in 2015 with dual degrees in both Russian and Spanish. I met with him several times throughout 2020 and 2021, while Ben was living and working in the Ukraine and gained valuable insight into what I could potentially do with a degree in Chinese.

How did this experience impact you academically?

My mentor and I covered a wide range of topics including a potential master's program following graduation; pursuing a double major; assistance with the Critical Language Scholarship application; advice regarding study abroad, and what life is like working and living as an interpreter within a foreign country.

"Having a mentor is a bit like looking in a mirror. Not at who you are currently, but who you could potentially be with a Liberal Arts degree."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

We have talked about several career goals. Ben has been incredibly insightful, easygoing, readily-available, accommodating, and an excellent resource and contact for a language major. As I enter my last year at Penn State, I hope to continue the partnership I've developed with Ben.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Lauren Granese did a masterful job in matching my major, career goals, and personality with Ben's. I'm very grateful to have been a part of this mentorship program. Having a mentor is a bit like looking in a mirror. Not at who you are currently, but who you could potentially be with a Liberal Arts degree.

Liberal Arts Major(s): International Politics
Other Major: Security and Risk Analysis
Hometown: Hanover, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Spring 2020

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

The Alumni Mentor Program was a very significant part of my Liberal Arts experience. I was first paired with my mentor, Kevin, during my sophomore year. I had recently changed my major and was unsure what type of career I wanted to pursue. Kevin helped me weigh out my options and was extremely pivotal in helping me secure an internship in the Intelligence Community. He was always willing to help me prepare for interviews, review my resume, and very often provided me with recommendations to excel throughout my time at Penn State.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I switched to the College of Liberal Arts during the second semester of my sophomore year, so I had not yet taken all of the necessary prerequisite classes like my peers. Kevin helped me choose classes that would help me excel in the Intelligence Community and even discussed some of the classes that he took during his time at Penn State. I knew that if I had any questions about what classes would benefit me the best that I could talk to Kevin.

"The Alumni Mentor Program had an extremely positive impact on my future career."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The Alumni Mentor Program, especially my mentor Kevin, had an extremely positive impact on my future career. As a sophomore, I was not quite sure what specific career I wanted to pursue, but Kevin helped me narrow down my options and choose the best career for my strengths and interests. As an intelligence professional, Kevin had real experiences in the career field that I wanted to go into, and he was able to share his experiences with me. Even though I recently graduated, Kevin and I still stay in contact and I have been relying on him for career advice. I am extremely grateful for Kevin and all the help he has given me to help me find my dream job.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I heard about the Alumni Mentor Program through a friend who had had a great experience with their mentor. The staff in the College of the Liberal Arts helped me sign up for the program and matched me with the perfect mentor.

Liberal Arts Major: Economics
Hometown: Volant, PA
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I analyzed and researched investment opportunities for clients based on their personal needs and parameters and within their risk tolerance. Using data and market trends to provide investment choices for clients who had specific goals for their portfolios was my main duty as an intern. I also attended meetings with clients and investment product sellers and learned what information is vital for making the best investment decisions.

"This experience will help me search for jobs and find a career in the financial world and my experience here has given me the opportunity to see what it takes to be successful."

How did this experience impact you academically?

This internship allowed me to connect my knowledge of macroeconomics to the stock market and understand the connections between the overall global market and individual markets and companies. The work I did was detail intensive and I paid close attention to the analytical aspects of the market. This detailed approach will help me with future courses in this area of study and in my career.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience gave me a small window into the financial world and the work that goes into building investment portfolios for clients with all different needs. I learned a tremendous amount about the details that are required to conduct research and follow trends within the market and within the global economy. This experience will help me search for jobs and find a career in the financial world and my experience here has given me the opportunity to see what it takes to be successful.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of Liberal Arts guided me through the process of gaining credit for my experience and was very flexible with all the deadlines of my application. Dr. Peter Miraldi was a big help with any questions I had about the class and how this would impact my curriculum.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Hometown: Newtown, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer I am serving as an intern in the Office of Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania's First District. In this role, I answer constituent phone calls, assist with office administrative work, attend hearings and events in support of the office, and conduct legislative research and organization.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This internship has had a great impact on me academically. I have begun to learn more about what policy areas I am interested in and the skills needed to work in politics and government. This will enable me to better shape my academics toward my interests and goals.

"I have begun to learn more about what policy areas I am interested in and the skills needed to work in politics and government."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience will impact my career goals by giving me a more complete understanding of the inner-workings of a congressional office and the skills needed to succeed. I have also been able to grow my professional network.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

What I have learned so far in the classroom from the College of the Liberal Arts has helped me succeed very much. I have been able to use the many skills I have acquired at Penn State to really contribute to the office. Also, the enrichment funds made available by the College of the Liberal Arts have enabled me to undertake the expenses associated with an internship in Washington D.C.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology
Minor: Arabic
Hometown: Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I worked beside 7 other interns at a DoD-sponsored research institute in support of USSTRATCOM to transform a sophisticated academic war game that investigates a possible Russian conflict with Ukraine. The scenario focuses on a suspected Russian strategy of employing low-yield and ultra-low-yield nuclear weapons. The intent is to discover paths for de-escalation.

How did this experience impact you academically?

My lead mentors were the former Chief Scientist at Air Force Global Strike Command and former USSTRATCOM Strike Advisor to the President. Their academic expertise of strategic deterrence and nuclear warfare enlightened me on the importance of my academic achievements if I hope to play an influential role in maintaining peace with our adversaries.

"It is of the highest importance that I reflect intensely on what I have learned and maintain close contact with my internship mentors for professional purposes."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The military leadership that enables this institute to provide senior military officials with the most accurate and timely research available displayed for me the caliber of person necessary to facilitate business in this critical field. It is of the highest importance that I reflect intensely on what I have learned and maintain close contact with my internship mentors for professional purposes. While I am still unsure as to whether I will pursue strategic deterrence further, I am certain that as a future Army officer, the skills I learned here are entirely transferable.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I was given this internship entirely based on my efforts within the Army ROTC program. All credit for my professional and personal development, leadership training and academic proficiency that resulted in my being awarded this opportunity should be fully accredited to the program cadre.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Other Major: Mathematics (Systems Analysis)
Hometown: Singapore
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

At Minitab, I work in the Marketing Department assisting the Americas and APAC team with daily marketing tasks, such as marketing planning, statistical analysis, translation work, persona building and development and seeking out advertising partners. It has been a great experience as I have had the opportunity to work with many brilliant people.

How did this experience impact you academically?

As a non-business student studying technical majors, it has been a refreshing change. I enjoy applying my social science critical thinking skills from my economics studies and the statistical skills from my mathematics major to effectively solve problems. Academically, it has been rewarding to see my studies being tied to my internship.

"The team at Minitab has been essential in helping me find what I enjoy doing..."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I hope to find a job in analytics, research, or data after graduation. The team at Minitab has been essential in helping me find what I enjoy doing as we are often allowed to explore our interests and determine if we want to be placed in a certain project.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Stacey from the Career Enrichment Network was a huge help as she helped me secure the needed internship credits in order to be approved for CPT work authorization.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Communication Arts and Sciences
Hometown: Northbrook, Illinois
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

At Fehr Financial, I have been able to gain work experience and enhance business communication skills. This experience has allowed me to learn under successful financial advisors and consultants. This has enhanced my strategic planning, analysis, and overall understanding of what this job entails. Choosing to interview the President was also something that I found beneficial and I received lots of crucial information.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience impacted me academically positively in regards to time management. I was able to balance class as well as real life professional tasks that has allowed me to be a better overall student. The experiences have given me a new appreciation for the importance of my academics because I was able to see how they translate to the professional world.

"This internship impacted my career goals most in a networking perspective by allowing me to connect and build relationships with many successful financial advisors."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship impacted my career goals most in a networking perspective by allowing me to connect and build relationships with many successful financial advisors. The opportunities that can bring to my career are endless. Utilizing members as references or for advice will go a long way.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I was told about this opportunity from an adviser. The adviser was able to relay all the information I needed regarding the LA495 program. I am extremely thankful for this opportunity and believe it will impact me in a positive way down the road.

Liberal Arts Major(s): English
Minor: Media Studies
Hometown: Chatham, New Jersey
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer, I served as a press intern for United States Senator Robert Menendez, working virtually and occasionally in the Jersey City, NJ office. My responsibilities included drafting press releases, compiling editorials for the senator to read, completing weekly communications team reports, writing social media captions and planning post dates, researching NJ journalists and elected officials, and formatting daily news clips about the senator for our staff email list.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience allowed me to explore a connection between my major and minor: English and Media Studies, because it was a heavily communications-based job, and involved some professional writing as well. It also taught me the ins and outs of Microsoft Word and Excel, allowing me to use those programs more efficiently in the future for academics.

"I am grateful to have experienced working in a lawmaker's office to further explore my interest in pursuing law."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I was interested in a political internship because I have an interest in a legal career. While working in politics is not my first choice in a career path, I am grateful to have experienced working in a lawmaker's office to further explore my interest in pursuing law.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

I applied for and was granted this position during the semester where I was enrolled in English 202B with Dr. Heather Holleman, who wrote me a wonderful letter of recommendation. I also improved my writing skills immensely in her course, and part of why I was hired was from submitting writing samples I completed during her class. She also taught me how to perfect my resume and cover letter.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

Without Paterno Fellows, I never would have been enrolled in a Schreyer English course, and I likely would not have met Dr. Holleman. I am very happy I was able to take all honors English courses throughout my time in the program so far.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Minor: Health Policy Administration
Hometown: Mineola, New York
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

Tradeweb is broken up into three divisions: Dealerweb, Tradeweb Institutional, and Tradeweb Direct. I joined Dealerweb which handles the wholesale side of business and acts as an inter-dealer broker (IDB) to primary banks like Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, etc. Fintech is a growing industry that is changing the way banks are doing business, and only the surface has been touched so far!

How did this experience impact you academically?

As an economics student, a major point of discussion is markets and how efficient markets are currently. As students we are curious to see how our education is being applied in the real world. Interning at Tradeweb provided me with the opportunity to see how technology is changing the fixed income market the potential for growth in this industry.

"Interning at Tradeweb has shown me the opportunities and also the cool new technologies in the industry in real time."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Coming in as a freshmen I knew I wanted to do work in finance, but I had no idea specifically where. Interning at Tradeweb has shown me the opportunities and also the cool new technologies in the industry in real time.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The best part of being in the College of the Liberal Arts is how open-minded and accepting all the faculty are to new educational or enrichment opportunities. Everyone here at Penn State wants to make sure you are taken care of and feel like you are a part of our community.

Liberal Arts Major(s): History, International Politics
Minor: Global Security Studies
Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

The Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program has definitely changed my life for the better. It introduced me to my alumni mentor, and now overall life mentor, Sharon Callahan. Through weekly Zoom calls, resume reviews, and general conversation, Sharon has made me feel confident about the future that I want to have for myself. A future that I did not think was possible. I have visited Sharon in D.C., where we have talked about career prospects and how I can best prepare myself for the possibility of working within the federal government and fulfilling the national security needs of our nation. Most recently, Sharon has helped me identify internship opportunities and to secure a national security scholarship that will allow me to focus on my studies and not worry about finances. She really is the parent that I've never had! The magnitude of impact that Sharon has had in my life is indescribable.

How did this experience impact you academically?

As a first-generation college student, it was extremely difficult to acclimate to college. It was even more difficult to have a solidified support system throughout my time at Penn State. Sharon has given me the support and confidence that I've never had or felt before. Through discussions about the classes that she's taken, the language that we both have taken, and general tips on navigating the academics of college, I have been able to refine my study practices and the classes that are most important to the career field that I want to eventually find myself in. Sharon has guided me on presentations that relate to national security as well as provided general academic assistance to successfully navigate college on my own.

"The magnitude of impact that Sharon has had in my life is indescribable."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

There are a plethora of national security opportunities that reside within the federal government. It would have been impossible to navigate without Sharon, who is a seasoned expert and federal bureaucrat in the realm of national security. I know exactly what I want to do now, and Sharon has provided me the tools that I need to apply to the correct positions and specialties. I originally had immense anxiety about finding a job that I would love after college, but Sharon has alleviated so many of my concerns. I know what to expect when it even comes to the technical aspects of employment with the government, such as security clearances and qualifications. With her constant motivation and check-ins, we have identified areas that I would thrive in.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Lauren Granese and the College of the Liberal Arts matched me with a mentor who has changed my entire future for the better. With the emails and the updates, I was able to identify the program and successfully take advantage of a program that exists to help students. I have been able to cultivate a meaningful and worthwhile relationship that has supplemented my collegiate experience in the best way possible.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Labor and Human Resources, Psychology with a concentration in Business
Minor: History
Hometown: York, Pennsylvania
Chapel Executive Intern
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This experience as an intern with Hershey Entertainment and Resorts allowed me to gain valuable experience and learn more about my future career path. During this internship, I gained experience in working with employees of a company as well as helping to facilitate these operations within the company. I also gained valuable skills throughout this internship, such as responding to employee inquiries about work-related issues and company policies, managing phone calls and emails, handling scheduling adjustments and attendance records, and so much more!

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience has impacted me academically because it has allowed me to put into practice concepts related to my academic field of study. This has helped me to relate my work experience to the concepts that I am learning in class, which has helped me to deepen my level of understanding about my academic studies. Gaining this experience has taught me even more about this field of study which has allowed me to have an even stronger understanding of the field. I will continue to relate the knowledge that I have gained from my internship experience to my academic courses.

"As a result of this experience, I now feel even more prepared to pursue a career in this field."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience will impact my career goals because it has taught me so much about different topics within this field and about the operations of a company. As a result of this experience, I now feel even more prepared to pursue a career in this field. Furthermore, I feel much more knowledgeable about this career field and equipped to apply this knowledge to my future career.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has helped me to succeed in this experience by informing me of the opportunities available to students within this College. This has helped to enhance my experience and gain valuable knowledge that I will use throughout my career. I am very grateful for this opportunity and for all that I learned throughout my experience.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Minor: Business and Liberal Arts, IST
Hometown: Suwanee, Georgia
Chapel Executive Intern
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

My role as a capital markets intern was to work closely with the Director of Capital Markets. We analyzed company financial data and prepared deliverables for the CEO in order to make better company financial decisions.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Overall, this internship greatly influenced my undergraduate education because I was able to learn more about mortgages and the overall financial industry. Although I was only able to obtain a small glimpse of what the mortgage industry was like, just listening to the mortgage officers talking with their clients was great insight to how the industry operates.

"This greatly influenced my future job searches, as I will now look for not only company goals and operations, but also the culture of the company."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Our CEO always stressed that the number one customer for UMortgage is not homebuyers, but the employees. To him, happy employees mean better production and overall better work atmosphere. This greatly influenced my future job searches, as I will now look for not only company goals and operations, but also the culture of the company.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

A Career Enrichment Network staff member reached out and encouraged me to apply for the Chapel Executive Internship award when I originally applied for general Liberal Arts enrichment funds. If it weren't for the guidance of the staff member, I never would have  been able to be considered for the Chapel Executive Internship Program funding.

Liberal Arts Majors: Economics, Psychology
Hometown: United States
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I am so thankful to be a part of the Alumni Mentor Program. I was perfectly matched with Mary Claire Schneider, who is always there to support and encourage me to pursue my goals. She is always willing to help me prepare for an interview, practicing questions and showing me how to stand out from other applicants. I have been able to ask her countless questions about her time at Penn State and how best to prepare for a future career with a Liberal Arts degree.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I am academically stronger because I have a mentor who helps me find my college work/life balance. After talking with Mary Claire, I learned to reach out to professors regarding research opportunities rather than waiting to see them posted. She has also recommended specific courses which she finds relevant in her career.

"My mentor has been able to connect me with other alumni who have helped me to explore and learn about different career paths."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The most important thing I can take away from my experience with the Liberal Arts Career Enrichment Network is access to Penn State alumni. Through these connections, I've realized that relationships are just as important as getting good grades. My mentor has been able to connect me with other alumni who have helped me to explore and learn about different career paths.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has so many resources that I have used, as well as connecting me with my alumni mentor, Mary Claire. I have been able to get my resume reviewed and targeted for each opportunity and application. I have also received funding from the College of the Liberal Arts to support the psychology research I am doing this summer!

Liberal Arts Major(s): Global and International Studies, Italian
Minor: Women and Gender Studies
Hometown: Easton, Pennsylvania
Chapel Executive Intern
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

At Lou Reda Productions, I worked as head intern and a creative assistant. As head intern, I hosted virtual team meetings and development meetings, coordinated conference calls between my creative director and pitch contacts, and oversaw multiple different pitch decks.  As creative assistant, I researched pitch ideas for documentaries and specials, pitched my own ideas to my creative director, and assisted in the development of a proposal for an exhibit for the WWII Museum in New Orleans as well as a pitch deck for a WWII Italy three part series for National Geographic.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Through this experience, I was involved in invested research in the Italian WWII campaign. I had access to hundreds of hours of footage and worked with numerous experts on the campaign. Furthermore, through the pitch process, I vastly improved my presentation skills and my comfort with presenting on the fly. Through the pitch deck editing process, I not only improved my editing skills, but learned about writing with an audience in mind. One of my pitches, a special about the 2018 Winter Olympics US Curling team, titled "The Rejects", who won gold, might actually get picked up by Peacock!

"LRP is not just something that will look good on my resume— it was an experience I will cherish forever."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I learned so much about the way the film industry works, and while I am unsure of if I want to work in the film industry, I gained invaluable experience working with professionals in various different fields, such as WWII experts and Emmy-nominated/winning filmmakers. I worked with incredible people who truly took the time to teach me about professionalism, the intricate process of film-making, and making connections wherever I am. LRP is not just something that will look good on my resume— it was an experience I will cherish forever.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts was essential in helping me obtain the funding that allowed me to experience this wonderful opportunity. I worked with LRP full time and would not have been able to work another job while focusing on this experience to the best of my ability.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Philosophy, Political Science
Other Major: Italian
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Chapel Executive Intern
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer I interned for WSFS Bank within their Personal Banking department. My experience mostly focused on cultivating client relationships, meeting monthly sales goals, processing transactions, and informing our customers on financial products. The experience itself has been quite formative. WSFS Bank allowed me to explore the different areas of banking and even provided the opportunity to speak with their head of Commercial Banking. All in all, I received a robust introduction into the banking industry and the professional skills necessary as well.

How did this experience impact you academically?

From an academic standpoint, the experience has allowed me to explore different avenues in terms of graduate school. For example, I am now open to pursuing an MBA and a JD. I am interested in attending graduate school at some point in my career in order to receive a leadership or management position. This experience was instrumental in considering a graduate education and understanding how that would compliment my career goals.

"This experience has had an influential impact on my career goals. I am now more aware of the vast opportunities that exist as potential careers post graduation."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience has had an influential impact on my career goals. I am now more aware of the vast opportunities that exist as potential careers post graduation. The internship allowed me to explore different areas that exist within banking. In fact, I was able to speak with different employees in various departments in order to receive a better understanding of what their work entails! As a result, I am now more equipped to apply to specific positions that are of interest.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has given me the tools and resources in order to succeed in this experience. Receiving enrichment funds from the College of the Liberal Arts was the reason that I was able to participate in this internship. So, having this internship will certainly help me find a full time career as well! Most importantly, the coursework in the College of the Liberal Arts has provided me with critical thinking skills which can be utilized in a professional environment!

Liberal Arts Major(s): Philosophy, Political Science
Minor: History
Hometown: Alexandria, Virginia
Chapel Executive Intern
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This past summer, I completed an internship as a Store Manager at the Kohl’s in Kingstowne, Virginia. In this role, I was tasked with becoming part of the store’s executive team, overseeing all facets of the management of the store, as well as helping with the renovation the store is currently undergoing to put in a Sephora, as a result of Kohl’s new partnership with the beauty chain.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This internship has influenced my undergraduate Liberal Arts education by granting me a unique experience in an industry very different from that which I am studying, which will consequently enhance my perspective both inside and outside of the classroom.

"[This experience granted] me a unique experience in an industry very different from that which I am studying, which will consequently enhance my perspective both inside and outside of the classroom."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I still intend to work for a year or two after graduation before attending law school. Although I have received a full-time offer from Kohl’s, I hope to spend this intermediary period working either in consulting, teaching, or doing missionary work for the Catholic Church.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The enrichment funds provided by the Chapel Executive Internship program provided great assistance towards the successful completion of my internship.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

The Paterno Fellows Program affected this experience by giving me the skill to multitask in a variety of ways, a vital skill in store management.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Spanish
Other Major: Supply Chain
Minor: International Business
Hometown: Summit, New Jersey
Chapel Executive Intern
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I am a supply chain intern for Crate and Barrel, where they have me observe their current practices and recommend changes that could improve their processes. For example, my main project pertains to improving shipping accuracy out of the Cranbury, New Jersey distribution center. I watch how they go about shipping and implement processes such as more frequent scanning of products for visibility and a checklist for leads and supervisors to fill out to maintain accountability for their daily responsibilities.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This experience helped me get a deeper appreciation for my Spanish classes. In the spring semester of 2021, I took SPAN 410 and SPAN 497, which helped me improve my vocabulary with regards to business in Spanish and my fluidity in conversation. These things proved extremely helpful because I speak to people daily in Spanish at my internship, so these classes prepared me for my time at Crate and Barrel.

"...I took SPAN 410 and SPAN 497, which helped me improve my vocabulary with regards to business in Spanish and my fluidity in conversation. These things proved extremely helpful because I speak to people daily in Spanish at my internship..."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience has greatly impacted my career goals in a few ways. First of all, I truly love using Spanish day-to-day, and I find that to be something I would love to continue doing. Second, I am exploring continuing my career at Crate and Barrel, which is very exciting.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Receiving emails from the College of the Liberal Arts helped me find this experience. It was very clearly explained so I felt comfortable applying and moving forward with my application. The advertisement of the enrichment funds has also changed my summer, and I am so grateful to the College of the Liberal Arts for bringing this fund to my attention through email.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Labor and Employment Relations
Minor: World Literature
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Chapel Executive Intern
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

During my Human Resources internship at TJX Companies, I primarily worked with the Talent Acquisition team. My project was to optimize the weekly New Hire tracking and Retention report to be more productive for the HR team. I learned how to use TJX’s Applicant Tracking System, Indeed, and LinkedIn as a candidate source pool. I interviewed candidates for our Warehouse Associate position. Then, I scheduled the applicants for our pre-hire assessment, which included a math assessment and a drug screening. I also sourced and interviewed candidates for our Loss Prevention position. Additionally, I gave orientation tours for warehouse associates and I’ve completed my HR candidate life cycle and retention project for my internship. 

How did this experience impact you academically?

My major classes have impacted the way I understand the HR role of a company. During my internship, I’ve been able to see how the theories I learned in class affects HR and how HR functions within a business. Additionally, I got to understand how the union interacts with HR and how both entities work together to reach common ground. This taught me how important it is to have an open mind within a business.

"This internship has cemented my desire to work within Talent acquisition as a Recruiter. Seeing the candidates go through the full recruitment process...is something that I look forward to as a Recruiter." 

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This internship has cemented my desire to work within Talent acquisition as a Recruiter. Seeing the candidates go through the full recruitment process, from being recruited to being hired, is something that I look forward to as a Recruiter. My co-workers in Talent Acquisition made my internship so fulfilling for me. They were always willing to help me with the different processes and give me great feedback on my work. This experience was amazing for me and for my career. I’m very grateful for this internship and I appreciate everything that the Chapel Executive Internship Program has done for me.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Katie Wysocki encouraged me to apply for the Chapel Executive Internship Program as I was looking for funding for my experience.

Liberal Arts Major(s): History, Political Science
Minors: Global Security
Hometown: Lansdale, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

As a Congressional Intern in the House of Representatives, I assisted the staff with administrative work, answered calls from constituents regarding their questions and concerns, and assisted the legislative staff with research covering various policy areas. I also worked on a co-sponsorship proposal project throughout the summer, where I researched a piece of legislation and wrote a proposal for the office to potentially co-sponsor.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Academically, this internship gave me the opportunity to apply the skills I have learned in my Liberal Arts classes at Penn State to a work environment. Specifically, the writing skills I have developed in my History and Political Science courses allowed me to write daily memos and briefs effectively as well as learn more about professional writing. The communication and leadership skills I gained in this internship will aid me in the future as I bring the insights back into the classroom.

"Through working with constituents and seeing 'how the sausage gets made' of the legislative process, I believe continuing to work in public service will grant me satisfaction in my career."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience greatly impacted my career goals. This internship in the House of Representatives strengthened my desire for a future career in public service. Through working with constituents and seeing "how the sausage gets made" of the legislative process, I believe continuing to work in public service will grant me satisfaction in my career.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts was extremely helpful in allowing me to succeed in this internship. Funding from the College of the Liberal Arts was critical in allowing me to cover the expenses of living in Washington D.C. Internships in public service are certainly not the highest paid opportunities, but the enrichment funds allowed me to focus on this experience and expand my horizons in public service, for which I am grateful.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Anthropology, History, Jewish Studies
Minors: Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies, Middle Eastern Studies
Hometown: Philipsburg, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer, I interned with the Jewish Cultural Historical Museum in Willemstad, Curaçao, as their Curatorial and Web Content Development Intern. I designed a proposal and submission guidelines for the museum’s forthcoming rotating temporary exhibit, “Jewish Curaçao: One Story at a Time,” and wrote the text for the museum’s first website. I spent about six weeks of my internship working remotely and two weeks working on-site in Curaçao.

How did this experience impact you academically?

Interning with the Jewish Cultural Historical Museum this summer allowed me to utilize and expand upon my current knowledge of Jewish history. The experience also allowed me to interact with nearly 400 years of Jewish life in Curaçao through scholarly articles, museum text, one-on-one conversations with community members, and by visiting religious and historically Jewish places in Curaçao. Through this internship, I not only grew as a Jewish Studies student, but it made me realize some of the existing gaps in my knowledge of Jewish history and Judaism in general. The internship has encouraged me to see what classes or knowledge I need to focus on in the future to minimize some of those gaps.

"Interning with the Jewish Cultural Historical Museum allowed me to confirm my passion for museum work and gain hands-on museum experience."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Through various classes and study abroad experiences at Penn State, I have found my passion in the preservation and continued education of Jewish history. Once I graduate, I intend to work in either museum education or public programming at a Jewish history or Holocaust museum. This summer, I was able to see the innerworkings of the Jewish Cultural Historical Museum, as well as other museums I visited while in Curaçao, and explore various museum professions. Interning with the Jewish Cultural Historical Museum allowed me to confirm my passion for museum work and gain hands-on museum experience.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts allowed me to both find and fund this internship. I was connected with the museum through Katie Wysocki in the College of the Liberal Art’s Career Enrichment Network and professor Dr. Howie Smith in Criminology. Additionally, funding from the College of the Liberal Arts and the Jewish Studies Department allowed me to be able to travel to Curaçao and gain this hands-on experience. I am extremely grateful for the professional and financial resources available in the College of the Liberal Arts that allowed me to find this experience and make visiting the island a reality.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

One of the things I love about the Paterno Fellows Program is that it encourages its students to take advantage of a variety of experiences, such as internship, study abroad, research, etc., while at Penn State. Being a Paterno Fellow has both encouraged and helped me to pursue all of those experiences and then some. I am so grateful for the support of the Paterno Fellows Program in all of my endeavors.

Liberal Arts Major: Economics
Minors: Spanish, Smeal Certificate
Hometown: New Canaan, CT
Chapel Executive Intern
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

The opportunity not only lived up to my expectations, but it tested me in ways that benefited my overall development as a person. My objectives focused on identifying, qualifying, and tracking new leads through prospecting to grow my team's business partners. I constantly worked to exceed my quotas and collaborated with my team to ensure we maximized our profitability. In addition, I develop skills with essential tools such as Salesforce & Outreach Sales Enablement Platform, both of these programs assisted me in driving new business opportunities for North America.

"The internship has provided me with incredible business to business experience and has further developed my technological knowledge, and time management skills."

How did this experience impact you academically?

This opportunity has provided me with an unmatched experience that influenced my drive to succeed in the future with my career as well as to achieve my academic goals. It has proven to me that hard work pays off and with the right mindset, I can achieve my academic goals.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This opportunity has challenged me to adapt and succeed with a variety of tasks. The internship has provided me with incredible business to business experience and has further developed my technological knowledge, and time management skills.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Being selected as a Chapel Executive Intern was an honor and truly helped me in being able to complete my internship.

Liberal Arts Major(s): History
Other Major: Print and Digital Journalism
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer, I was a remote communications manager for Global Girl Media. I researched, wrote, and created content for their various social media pages. During my internship, I got to know a lot of interesting people and learned about the importance of media training for young women of color.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This internship taught me how to be a better researcher. I learned how to find resources related to film and media for future posts.

"Working for a global nonprofit, I got to see how organizations collaborate worldwide and change the lives of the people they help." 

How will this experience impact your career goals?

Through this experience, I met a lot of great people who are doing important work in the film industry. Working for a global nonprofit, I got to see how organizations collaborate worldwide and change the lives of the people they help. My experience solidified my interest in nonprofit work and it's definitely something I want to pursue after graduation.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

With my enrichment funds, I was able to feel more secure about my finances since I was an unpaid intern. It really showed me how much the College of Liberal Arts wants its students to succeed no matter their situation.

Liberal Arts Major(s): History, Political Science
Minor: Global Security
Hometown: Lindenhurst, New York
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

For the month of July, I studied abroad in Stockholm, Sweden. I took a course titled: "Political Extremism and the Threats to Democracy." We discussed Swedish and American politics. When I wasn’t in class, I was exploring the beautiful city and learning about Swedish culture and history.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I am writing my senior honors thesis on the Swedish Democrats, so this course allowed me to learn more information about this political party. We discussed why this nationalist and populist party was growing in Sweden. My class also met someone who worked for the party. All of this will help me write my thesis.

"Immersing myself in a different culture has expanded my world view, which will be beneficial in my future jobs."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I want to work in either policy or intelligence work within the United States government. Immersing myself in a different culture has expanded my world view, which will be beneficial in my future jobs.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The enrichment funds allowed me to explore Sweden outside of the classroom, which is very important. My thesis advisor gave me recommendations of where I should go while in Sweden. This helped me learn more about Swedish culture and history.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

I knew I always wanted to study abroad, but the Paterno Fellows requirement forced me into actually doing it and I am glad it did.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Psychology
Minor: Business
Hometown: Shamokin, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

Over the summer, I worked in a rural health clinic where I performed basic office duties like copying and faxing papers. I also was able to shadow a psychiatric nurse practitioner and licensed social worker and observe their clients' sessions with their consent.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I learned a lot about the counseling process, different intervention strategies for different psychiatric disorders, empirical methods of evaluating clients' mental status and their appropriate applications, and what it's like to work as a mental health professional. I was able to apply concepts I learned in the classroom to real world examples.

"This experience will help me apply to graduate school programs in clinical psychology and jobs in the field."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This experience will help me apply to graduate school programs in clinical psychology and jobs in the field. The hands-on experience also taught me how to operate in a mental healthcare setting and "leave work at the office," an incredibly important skill to learn when working in a position prone to burnout.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The generous enrichment funding provided by the College of the Liberal Arts and its' benefactors allowed me to make the most of my internship experience. I was able to focus on the work without worrying about overworking myself at a side job to provide gas money.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Economics
Other Major: Community, Environment and Development
Minor: Music Performance
Hometown: State College, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

My internship was with Penn State Extension, where I partnered with an organization in Philadelphia named Norris Square Community Alliance (NSCA). This organization offers assistance to members of the neighborhood. Norris Square is a poor neighborhood in Philadelphia that is currently facing a lot of challenges due to gentrification and lack of support from the city. In my position, I assisted NSCA with their youth program and community outreach initiatives. I also worked on a project to help the organization better understand what businesses are in the neighborhood and what assistance they need.

How did this experience impact you academically?

In both of my majors at Penn State, I have learned about poverty and development issues. Through this internship, I got to see these issues first-hand while having my educational background to remind me of why many things are the way they are. The internship has also sparked my interest in learning about these topics as I wrap up my senior year at PSU.

This experience will be beneficial to me as I look to build relationships with people from around the world.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

This was my first hands-on experience with community development work. This experience taught me to work with all types of people and to be very kind and accepting of different cultures. In the future, I hope to do work with communities who struggle. This experience will be beneficial to me as I look to build relationships with people from around the world.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The enrichment funds helped me with the extra costs that were associated with living in the city for a summer. I am so grateful to Penn State for this assistance.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Criminology
Minor: Sociology, Security Risk Analysis
Hometown: Montrose, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I worked with the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center and completed research into the 2014 Peshawar Army School attack, including background investigation, motive, and risk analysis. This culminated in the creation of a research proposal and formal presentation to professional staff and supervisors.

How did this experience impact you academically?

This internship allowed me to continue exploring research while learning to combine theory with practical application. I also had the privilege to work with Penn State Harrisburg to obtain academic credit for the experience as well, and being able to meet Penn State faculty and staff beyond University Park helped me understand just how far the Penn State family reaches.

This internship allowed me to continue exploring research while learning to combine theory with practical application.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I now have experience with the expectations for federal reports and research. As I worked with a partner, I also now understand how teamwork transfers into the workplace.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

Beyond the gift of enrichment funds, Penn State Harrisburg staff (specifically in the Homeland Security Program) were instrumental in my experience. Special thank you's to Alison Shuler and Dr. Alexander Siedschlag for their support and guidance.

How has the Paterno Fellows Program had an impact on this experience?

Being a Paterno Fellow meant that I was interested in pursuing this experience for academic credit. Because of this, I was able to meet and work closely with Dr. Siedschlag on a weekly basis to ensure that I was learning and growing throughout the summer. While the internship itself was incredibly influential, being able to obtain academic credit to fulfill a Paterno Fellow requirement was also much appreciated.

Liberal Arts Major(s): Communication Arts and Sciences, English
Hometown: West Chester, Pennsylvania
Experience Time: Summer 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

This summer, I was granted an internship where I worked as a journals production intern at the PSU Press. I worked closely with production managers who sent me assignments that enriched my skills with reviewing and editing, navigating Adobe Photoshop, and communicating with other interns, coworkers, and authors. I witnessed the production process more intimately than ever before and now understand each step thoroughly because of my engagement.

How did this experience impact you academically?

My time management skills, attention to detail, and effective organization in general greatly improved over this summer experience.

I witnessed the production process more intimately than ever before and now understand each step thoroughly because of my engagement.

How will this experience impact your career goals?

I am currently pursuing a career in the publishing industry. This internship experience reassured my hope of working towards editorial and production positions in particular once I graduate.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of Liberal Arts has provided me with great resources and advisers since the start of my freshmen year. My academic adviser Julianna Chaszar and the internship coordinator Dr. Steele Nowlin have helped me with not only my academics but kept me consistently updated on events and opportunities within the College of Liberal Arts.