Hi, I’m Grace and this is my Penn State story (so far).
I’m an advertising major in the Bellisario College of Communications, and I plan to minor in graphic design and digital media trends & analytics.
The main reason that I chose Penn State was because of its stellar communications program. I wanted to attend a school with a big alumni network, so that I could meet different people in my field and get exposed to tons of unique opportunities. Another reason that I chose Penn State was because of how many different ways I can let my passions fly. Penn State has an endless amount of ways to get involved, so no matter what you’re interested in, there is always a place for you to fit in.
I have always loved being creative—even as a little kid, I would write stories, make movies, and do crazy art projects. Now, as a freshman in college, I still love doing all of those things and Penn State allows me to pursue them. At the beginning of my first semester, I applied to Onward State where I am now a Staff Writer. I love to write (and my dream job is to be an SNL writer), so Onward State is the perfect place for me. It has helped me to meet so many amazing people, and I am so grateful that I get to be a part of it.
I also joined a THON committee during my first semester, which is a great way to get involved and meet new people. However, after a few weeks I decided that the committee life just wasn’t for me, and I decided to drop it. Penn State has so many clubs and activities that if you try something out and decide it’s not the right fit, you can easily find something new to join and test out different interests. I’m going to be a sophomore next semester and I’m super excited to join Second Floor Stand-Up, which is a student-run comedy club. If you have a unique interest just google “*insert unique interest* PSU” and I’m almost certain you’ll find a group of people at Penn State who share that same love and passion that you do.
During my second semester, I got the opportunity to become a social media intern at the Undergraduate Admissions Office. Penn State has so many jobs and internship opportunities for students—I found out about this internship through an email that was sent to every College of Communications student. After reading the email, I sent in my application, got called in for an interview, and the rest is history! One big tip that I have is to put yourself out there and seek opportunity; you’re never going to find an internship if you don’t look for one. If you are interested in finding an internship, talk to your adviser, connect with your college’s career office, and always read your emails! Penn State is constantly sending out information about unique opportunities that you can be a part of.
So, my best advice for incoming freshmen is as follows:
- EVERYONE is just as nervous as you are, so try not to worry too much. People are always looking for new friends (even second semester), so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone in your English class.
- Get involved! Seriously, go to the involvement fair and put your name down for anything that looks interesting. If you hear about a cool club halfway through the semester, email the president and ask if you can join. Getting involved really is the best thing you can do for yourself.
- It’s never too early to start thinking about your future. I know, I know, you’re just a freshman, but if you think you know what you want to do with your life in college and after it doesn’t hurt to start looking into internship opportunities, cool minors, research opportunities, study abroad, etc. The early bird catches the worm!
- HAVE FUN! You’re only a freshman once, so make the most of it.
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