I've always been fascinated by the appeal of a big public state school - ample research opportunities, enormous school pride, and of course a premier education. Over the summer I had the opportunity to visit Penn State University's (PSU) flagship campus at University Park in State College, PA to learn about the programs and explore the campus. Did you know the university has their own ice cream shop?! Shut the front door! And yes, they have perfected your favorite summertime treat with science! 

Founded in 1855 as the Farmers' High School of Pennsylvania, Penn State's roots are truly American. They have an amazing agriculture program to which Berkey Creamery is a part of, as well as a powerhouse Division I football program. The Nittany Lions play at Beaver Stadium (4th largest stadium in the world) to which die hard student fans will camp nights before the game to snag a front row seat. I got to tour the stadium as a "football prospect" and the facility is very impressive say the least!  
With a student body of 46,800 (grad/undergrad) many prospective students may feel intimated; however, there's an incredible program called the Penn State Millennium Scholars Program (not to be mistaken with Gates Millennium Scholars) where students enter in as a cohort, receive individualized advising, research mentorship, as well as financial assistance (Full Tuition Covered!! *Note: May be combined with other awards up to the full cost of attendance for out of state students). The program is designed to increase diversity in STEM-related disciplines and prepare students as they apply for PhD programs. If you have the drive to be a trailblazer and want that big school feel without feeling lost - this program really helps you get the best of both worlds! You will need to interview for consideration, but it is a veryVERY small price to pay for the benefits you will receive should you be selected. For more information about the application and selection process click here.     

Here are some other highlights about PSU
  • Students can apply on the Common App 
  • In 2018, PSU offered an Early Action deadline of Nov 1
  • Yellow Ribbon School for Veterans
  • Nursing (no transfer option - select Nursing if that's what you choose to major)
  • Schreyer Honors College Priority Filing Date is Nov 1 (11/30 Deadline: More info here)
  • Earn your BS/MD in 7 years (11/1 Early Deadline; More info here)
  • The closest airport is University College Airport in State College, PA 

For more information contact Admissions
Penn State University
201 Shields Building, University Park, PA 16802-1294
Tel: 1-814-865-5471
Email: Admissions@psu.edu




Until next time, 

Irene, The Cosplay Counselor