Jacqueline
The college experience is truly invaluable in more ways than I find possible to count. Going to a college, especially a big one like the one in which I am enrolled, provides you with a new feeling of independence that helps one grow in so many ways. I'm challenged as an individual to strive my best with only myself to depend on in this new world of discovery. Of course there are times the frightening feeling of being on my own creeps up but I take that fear and convert it into energy and focus on it as inspiriation to do my best in everything I do. This is just one of the many lessons one learns as they grow. I look forward to an incredible experience this year as I learn not only values and lessons such as this but many more, with the knowledge that each one will contribute at least a little to the person I am striving to become in a world full of endless opportunites.
Shandna
What I got out of attending college is that I may have only one shot at success. By the glace of god, I am here. I learned to stay perisant and remain determined. I learned sacrifices must be made to stay in college and to keep going. I learned to accept sweet victory and bitter defeat graciously. I don't let people pressure me into doing things that with take this opportunity way. I know that the only way I can achieve my goals is by getting my education and that is reason why this experiences is so valuable. If I succeed, I may be able to expand on previous knowledge and guide the next generation to take what I learned to the next level. At the present, this experiences has been valuable because each day is struggle and by making it one more day gets me one step closer to finish. I can't be defeated unless I surrender.
Tim
I have gotten some lasting friends. I have also learned a lot about myself.
heather
I would not be where I am today without my college education. My degree from Penn State immediately qualified me for a career in broadcast journalism. I started work in my field 3 days after graduations. My professors prepared me for the reality of my chosen field. I didn't get rich as a radio and TV news reporter (which is why I am now pursuing an MBA) but I loved every minute of it. I met life long friends at Penn State. I also became independent, self motivated, curious and I found my true self.
Stephen
During the past five years, including my high school and first year of community college, I have learned much about myself and gained a greater knowledge of myself. Throughout my education I have changed what I would like to be hundreds of times and have finally decided upon a career in dental orthodontics by way of a business MIS degree. Although the schooling for this career is expensive and hard I feel it is the best match for me and am willing to go to great efforts in order to achieve my goals. I hope that in applying for as many scholarships as I can one day I will be able to own my own practice and fulfill my potential as a student and a successful human being.
Rozelinda
They call it "Happy Valley" for a reason. Penn State allowed me to fulfill my college dream. Never a dull moment, I was able to become active in the Greek Community and contribute to our society through philanthropic services. The student body exuded pride and passion and put their hearts into Penn State not only as a learning institution but also as a home away from home. The excitement I felt when attending football games or Penn State's Dance Marathon is unlike anything I have felt before, and I get the same feeling when going back to Happy Valley as an alumni. The experience has allowed me to build unique professional abilities such as social skills, organizational development, stress management, and the comprehensive knowledge learned in the classroom. These skills have set me apart from other college graduates when job hunting and am blessed to have been employed from the day I graduated. If it is possible to fall in love with an inanimate object, call me love struck. I have given my heart to this college and it has reciprocated, and for that, I will forever be filled with Penn State Pride.
Colleen
I have gained so much from my college experience. I have gained perspective on what is really critical in the long run of life and what is important in the people closest to you. I have learned endless information and gained technical experience that has really prepared me for my venture out into the "real world." I have irreplacable friendships, memories, and knowledge. I was valuable to attend because there is no other way to prepare for a career. I wouldn't be able to enter the job industry to do what I want to do without my education. I have networked with potential business partners and employers and I have molded myself into an outstanding student, learner, and person.
Akeem
I have met amount of students who have similar visions. Who came came from thesame adverse area that I come from, but are working hard daily to stay in the school. College to me is an eye opener to different people and things this world have to offer. I wish everyone was able to attend college because it is not an experience I would like to miss. It is just simply the best thing in my life so far!
Josephine
Coming from Africa, I have always found life to be challenging; but,ever since my first year in college i have realized that you sometimes have to go above and beyond your own wits in orders to acheive your goal. I have also realized that sometimes we might no acheive our goals, but so long as we we learn from our mistakes, everything will be fine. My favorite discovries of all is that I've realized that I only find school interesting because of the challenges we face when we in school. These challenges make school more fun and interesting. As much as i may say i hate school at times, i still love attending college because I'm gaining both knowledge, intelligence as well as learning to cope and deal with people from different backgrounds.
Izzah
My college experience has been great so far. Learning for me is very important in order to succeed in this world, and Penn States provides the ultimate learning experience. To continue with this experince, however, I am in desperate need of scholarships.