Major: Early Childhood and Elementary Education
Minor: Special Education
Hometown: Erie
On choosing Behrend: I love the size of the campus, the close distance to home, and the friendliness of the faculty and staff. The professors really care about their students and want them to succeed. I also love that everything is within a fifteen-minute walk and that the campus is absolutely beautiful in any season.
On choosing her major: I started as an undecided major with plans to major in Psychology. I knew I wanted to work with children and help them become their best selves, but I eventually I realized that psychology wasn’t for me. I switched to ECEE and never looked back. I love what I’m doing now!
Her proudest accomplishment at Behrend: I am proud to have worked as a Resident Assistant for two years in Trippe Hall. I was also presented with the Pride of Residence Life award in my second year. The most rewarding parts of being an RA are the leadership skills I gained and the lasting connections with former residents, who are now good friends.
On overcoming challenges: In the fall of 2021, I had major surgery on my left eye after losing 60 percent of the vision due to a retinal detachment. I missed four weeks of school for recovery and had to adjust to life with impaired, distorted vision. I couldn’t have done it without the support from faculty members who were patient and understanding. Almost five years later, I am now able to do activities I never thought I’d be able to do, like drive.
Campus involvement: I have been a member of Tone-Acious, Behrend’s a cappella group, for four years and served briefly on the e-board. I am also a member of the Gender and Sexuality Equality Club (GASE).
Awards: Division of Undergraduate Studies award in 2021 and 2022; second place in the Personal Counseling Art Show in fall 2024.
What makes her unique: I love to play my ’80s synthesizer, the Omnichord, and sing. I own three different models of the Omnichord. My vintage interests extend to photography, shooting mainly on vintage Polaroid cameras, and collecting retro Nintendo video games. Painting and drawing in my free time help me relax after a long day. If I am not doing that, I enjoy making and designing stickers to give to my friends.
Her passion: I am passionate about breaking down barriers for people, especially children, to ensure equitable education for all. I believe all students deserve a good education that lifts them up to be their very best. I want to be that change that gives everybody the opportunity to succeed in their own meaningful way.
Her advice for first-year students: No matter what, never be afraid to be yourself. Fear of not fitting in or rejection can pressure you to be somebody you’re not. It’s OK to want to fit in, feel like you must put on a mask, and be different, but try to find a space where you can lower that mask and stop pretending. Let your light shine, because you might meet others who will love and appreciate that light.
After her graduation in May, Farran plans to find work as an elementary school teacher. She also hopes to attend graduate school in the future to obtain a master’s degree in education or in child psychology.