Major: Nursing
Hometown: Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania
Scholarships: Penn State Provost Award, PNC Leadership Scholarship, TODD Scholarship
On choosing Behrend: I decided on Behrend because it felt like the right fit for me. It’s not too far from home. It’s not too big and not too small. Behrend has great people, and after I toured Behrend, I knew it was the place for me.
Why she chose her major: I knew I wanted to do something within the medical field. I was originally looking at physician assistant or a physical therapy program. My mom suggested nursing because it had a lot of opportunities and was a good foundation if I wanted to continue with my schooling. This led me to Penn State Behrend and Nursing.
Her proudest accomplishment at Behrend: My proudest accomplishment at Behrend was being selected to dance and represent Behrend Benefiting THON and Penn State THON in their 46-hour-no-sleep-or-sit dance marathon to raise awareness and funds for families experiencing pediatric cancer. This was such an amazing accomplishment, and I am glad to say I represented Behrend at THON.
On overcoming challenges: A lot of my challenges came from balancing work, school, clubs, and social life. Nursing school is tough as it is, but trying to be active in my clubs (while on multiple executive boards), work, and have time to hang out with my friends was definitely a struggle. Trying to find that perfect balance wasn’t easy, and at times I would just shut down. In the end, everything I did was worth it. I do not regret my decisions because it was a learning experience I can take and use for the rest of my life.
Campus involvement: Lion Entertainment Board (entertainment specialist on the LEB board for four years), Student Nurses Association of Pennsylvania (secretary), Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority (treasurer, president), Behrend Benefiting THON (special events co-chair), on-campus job as a night building assistant for almost two years in the Student Leadership and Involvement Office, Welcome Week guide and leader.
Awards and honors: Excellence in Leadership and Service award from Student Leadership and Involvement for “Most Outstanding Student Organization Officer” for my work with LEB.
What makes her unique: I think what makes me unique is my personality. I would like to think I am a hard worker, but also someone who likes to have fun! I enjoy making people laugh and having a good time.
What people might be surprised to know about her: I enjoy listening to a lot of rock/punk/alternative music.
Her top priority for the coming years: My highest priority for the coming years is continuing my education and getting experience in the field of nursing. I would like to attend a graduate program at some point in the future, but I want to work for a bit first.
Her passions: I am very passionate about my relationships. I don’t think I would have been able to get through college without my friends and family. I value and love these relationships so much. This is something I am truly passionate about.
Advice for first-year students: Get out there and get involved. Go to that event and talk to someone new. I used to go home all the time or stay in my room, but once I started joining clubs and being active on campus, I never wanted to leave campus. Behrend offers so many opportunities for personal and social growth. I would not be the person I am today if I hadn’t gone out and made an opportunity for myself. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. I used to be very shy and try to do everything on my own. Everyone at Behrend wants you to succeed, so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling in any way.
Megan will work as an Emergency Room nurse at AHN Saint Vincent.
Everyone at Behrend wants you to succeed, so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling in any way.
—Megan Bienkowski