Majors: Finance and Accounting
Hometown: Fredonia, New York
Scholarships: Class of 1922 Memorial Scholarship; Lawrence and Elizabeth Held Scholarship; Presidential Scholarship; Intrieri Family Student Scholarship; Penn State University Discover Award
Why he chose Behrend: Proximity to family, access to sports, and networking possibilities of Penn State Alumni. I originally planned to transfer to University Park after two years but decided to stay at Behrend because of the Intrieri Family Student Managed Fund and friends I had made on the swim team and within the Black School of Business.
Why he chose his majors: I’ve had a lifelong interest in finance and the income potential it offers. When I was young, I frequently read about investing and bonded with my grandfather over it.
Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Being appointed president of the Intrieri Family Student Managed Fund after having worked through the ranks over the years (associate analyst, analyst, lead analyst).
Challenges overcome: In my senior year of high school, I broke my hand one week before our biggest swim meet of the year. This was devastating and it was difficult to get back in the water when I started swimming at Behrend. I’m more than glad that I did. I achieved most of my goals over the last four years, and that has been very rewarding.
Campus involvement: President of the Business Analytics Team, captain of the 2024-2025 Men’s Varsity Swimming Team, and president of the Intrieri Family Student Managed Fund.
What’s free time? Being on a sports team, having a double major, and being involved in several extracurriculars is tough, but I have been able to handle it well. When I get into the workforce and I have fewer responsibilities, I’m not sure what I’ll do!
What you’d be surprised to know about him: I have strong communication skills in high -stress situations. Being on a sports team can be pretty taxing, and I have been there for people when they are not in the greatest mood and need coached up. Same thing for group projects in my upper-level finance classes and my intermediate accounting class.
Kick or swim: Originally, I wanted to play soccer but missed the try-out deadline, so I joined the swim team.
Top priority in coming years: Paying off student loans and making new friends in Nashville. I have always easily made friends with my teammates, so having to go about meeting people in a different way may be a challenge.
Advice for first-year students: Take advantage of living next to a Great Lake. Go to the bayfront and to Presque Isle State Park. The grey skies can get you down in the winter, so get outside and enjoy yourself when you can.
Ronan has accepted a position with Mariner Wealth Advisors. He will work at the company’s Nashville, Tennessee, location after his graduation in May.