By Hannah Beachy
As my senior year brings my time at Penn State to a close, I can’t help but reflect upon my experiences and memories in college. Unlike most of the 2026 graduating class, my college career did not start at University Park or even at a Penn State campus. Instead, my first two years as a college student took place in Oakland, at the University of Pittsburgh.
As a central Pennsylvania native, Penn State felt all too familiar to me, making it an automatic no for me when it came time to look for colleges in high school. It all felt too familiar to me. The landscape and the weather were the same, and a large majority of my high school and hometown attended PSU. Looking for a break from all three, I was led to Pitt.
Although I enjoyed my time at Pitt, I ultimately decided the school and my major were not for me. I love the City of Pittsburgh, and I am so grateful for the experiences, memories, perspectives and friends it gave me but again, I needed a change. In the midst of a crash out over a bad Bio 2 grade, I applied to Penn State as a communications major and decided it was an all or nothing situation. Either I get rejected and stay in Pittsburgh, or I get accepted and move to State College.
Fortunately, I got accepted, and with the transfer a major change came. Both academically and personally. It was difficult for me to accept defeat as a failed STEM major, since all I wanted to be since I was in pre-school was a doctor. My future, as I had planned it out in my head, would no longer become a reality for me. The change and uncertainty were a lot to overcome, but I am grateful to have friends that eased the transition
I decided to transfer to Penn State because of the Bellisario College of Communications. I liked how they combine the opportunities and resources of a large university with the personalized feel and support of a small school. I was drawn to facilities like the Media Center and the opportunities I knew the school could provide. Within Bellisario is an amazing array of professors who care for their students and help support their success to the best of their abilities.
Upon my arrival, I was able to join a handful of the countless student-run organizations, including Happy Valley Comm. I’ve gained exposure and experience in the field of communications that has helped me figure out my interests and envision a future after graduation.
Outside academics, Penn State has built and maintained an impressive alumni network. Through many guest lectures and speakers, I have been able to connect with a large number of professionals who never cease to teach and support me. Penn State does a great job at building and maintaining its community. Reflecting on the last four years has made me realize that the change from Pittsburgh and from being a STEM major was what I needed. Penn State not only offered me more opportunities as a communications major, but it felt a little more like home. A Penn State student will always be a proud Penn State fan, and a “WE ARE” never goes unanswered.
Happy Valley Comm 