Major: Political Science
Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Scholarships: Myron and Marlene Jones Open Doors Scholarship; Bunton Waller Scholarship; Michael Jude Woods and Tracy Kimes Woods Family Trustee Scholarship; Council of Fellows Leadership Scholarship; Edward P. and Barbara F. Junker Scholarship; Wagner Family Open Doors Scholarship; Lake Erie Trustee Scholarship at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College; and Pam and Greg Slusher Open Doors Scholarship.
On choosing Behrend: I wanted a Penn State education, and I chose Behrend for its affordability and size.
On choosing her major: I have always had a passion for politics and helping people. My parents always told me that I was going to change the world for the better, and that is what I want to do.
Her proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Becoming the Welcome Week Director with one of my best friends, Josiah Burkett, a senior Elementary and Early Childhood Education major. I was a leader for two consecutive years before becoming a director, so I really got to grow with the program.
Campus involvement: I have been involved in Sailing Club, Theatre and Theatre Club, Alpha Sigma Tau, Welcome Week, Panhellenic Council, Lion Ambassadors, THON, Pi Sigma Alpha, and the Concert Committee.
Awards and recognitions: I was awarded the Thomas H. Turnbull Award in 2023.
What makes her unique: I am well-versed and love to be active in my community. I am driven by my desire to succeed and make a difference, so giving up is not a word in my vocabulary.
People might be surprised to know: I work part-time at Erie Brewing Company in Knowledge Park, and despite my busy schedule with school, work, and extracurriculars, I do find time to sleep!
Career goals: I plan to continue my education and work my dream career, a job in the FBI.
Advice for first-year students: Take your time. As cliché as it sounds, college goes by quickly, and it is over before you know it. Get involved, make a name for yourself, and build your connections.
Parting thoughts: I love Penn State Behrend, and although I am ready to graduate, I am not ready to say goodbye.
Jenna plans to apply to graduate school and earn a degree in Homeland Security.