Pennsylvania State University

I attended Behrend for my first two years prior to transferring to UP. My fisrt year at Behrend wasn't the best because I was forced to live off campus and due to a limited amount of activities, making friends even for extroverts was difficult. After my sophomore year, I had become more comfortable there but I was definitely ready for something bigger.

A large group of my friends and myself all transferred to University Park together. We were able to join numerous clubs and gain invaluable research experience. The nightlife was awesome from $1 pitchers at the Gaff to the endless stream of downtown apartment parties and unbelievable tail-gating. I joined the sailing team and had a great time with a wonderful group of people. How many other universities in PA have sailing teams? (only a couple)

My advice to potential, future Penn Staters.... start at a branch campus if you are uncomfortable with a university as large as main campus. PSU is an awesome institution with great opportunities.... you have to take advantage of them. Join clubs, live on campus, do undergrad research, buy football season tickets, go to women's basketball games, play intramural sports, don't trust the advisors, take TONS of pictures with friends at the lion statue, talk to upperclassmen about what classes/professors to take, and take Professor Clemente's SOC 005 class. That is the full Penn State experience.I recently graduated from PSU and have discovered that there are alumni everywhere you go. Throw the PSU name out there and someone is likely to respond. You have the advantage that tens of thousands of people walk away from PSU each year having had 4-6-10+ wonderful years at State. Best of luck!

4th Year Female -- Class 2004

Social Life: A+, Perceived Campus Safety: C+

1st Year Female -- Class 2006

Individual Value: A+, Scholastic Success: F