Major: Biology
Minor: Psychological Science
Hometown: Hopewell, Virginia
Scholarships: Lincoln Trustee Scholarship, Provost Award, Penn State Academic Grant, Bunton Waller Scholarship, PNC Leadership Scholarship.
Why he chose Behrend: I chose Penn State Behrend because of its beautiful and inviting campus, which immediately made me feel at home. The natural surroundings created an environment where I knew I could thrive both academically and personally. Additionally, the students I spoke with before enrolling highly recommended Behrend and emphasized the unique opportunities it offers. They shared their experiences with hands-on learning and small class sizes that allow for close relationships with professors. Hearing about these distinctive opportunities, such as undergraduate research, solidified my decision to become part of Behrend.
Why he chose his major: Since I was a young child, I have dreamed of becoming a doctor. As I progressed through school, I was drawn to biology and the sciences. The more I learned, the more eager I became to understand the complexities of the human body, genetics, and medicine. My curiosity and passion for science fueled my desire to pursue a major that would challenge me intellectually while preparing me for a career in healthcare.
His proudest accomplishment at Behrend: My proudest accomplishment at Behrend has been successfully balancing academics, leadership, and research while making a meaningful impact on campus. From the start of my undergraduate career, I sought out opportunities to get involved, and I have thrived. Serving as president of Science Ambassadors, director of Welcome Week, and bingo chair of Lion Ambassadors allowed me to develop my leadership and organizational skills while fostering a sense of community among students. Additionally, completing two ecological research projects pushed me to think critically, manage long-term commitments, and contribute to scientific inquiry.
On overcoming challenges: Starting college at the age of sixteen was a challenging but transformative experience for me. Being younger than my peers, I had to quickly adapt to the academic rigor and social dynamics of college life while learning to balance coursework, extracurricular involvement, and personal responsibilities. Managing my time effectively and staying disciplined were crucial in navigating this transition.
Campus involvement: Lion Ambassadors (Bingo chair and social chair), Science Ambassadors (member and president), THON (fundraising captain), Behrend First Gens, Tri-Beta, Biology Club, Leadership Scholars, Welcome Week (guide, leader, director), and Alternative Spring Break
What you might be surprised to know about him: I’m a huge sneakerhead and love collecting streetwear!
His top priority for the coming years: My highest priority is getting into medical school and developing the skills and knowledge to become a compassionate and competent doctor. I am committed to excelling academically, gaining hands-on experience in clinical and research settings, and continuously improving my ability to connect with and care for patients. Beyond just earning a degree, I want to cultivate the qualities that define a great physician—empathy, resilience, adaptability, and a lifelong dedication to learning.
Advice for first-year students: College is a learning experience, and mistakes are part of growth. Don’t be too hard on yourself—learn from them and move forward.
Jason plans to attend medical school.
The students I spoke with before enrolling ... shared their experiences with hands-on learning and small class sizes that allow for close relationships with professors.
—Jason Chen