Penn Staters know the real measure of success goes beyond the classroom. Success is gained by asking questions, seeking the unexpected, collaborating on solutions and always staying open to new perspectives. Together, we impact the world.
Ellie Wheeler, Marley Stonesifer, Noi Nuria Maeshige, and Jasmine Ward (left to right) wait for their next take in the Engineering Design and Innovation Building.
“At Penn State, students from all walks of life, with all kinds of passions and dreams come together to create something larger than ourselves,” said Noi Nuria Maeshige, senior musical theater major. “Having an open mindset or being open to new thoughts always takes the initial idea a step further.”
"Lights. Camera. Action!" The film crew focuses on Jasmine Ward in the John J. Cahir auditorium in Walker Building for the opening scene.
Jasmine Ward, junior acting major, is involved in the Presidential Leadership Academy, a student organization that teaches members how to navigate nuance to develop leadership fundamentals. “We have discussions and debates that allow me to share my perspective on a topic and hear opinions from people with backgrounds different than mine. I enjoy bringing new ideas back to the classroom, or trying new communication methods from what I learn.”
After wardrobe, Kade Brennan Leous helps the director block out the next scene.
Kade Brennan Leous, second-year theatre major, takes advantage of Penn State’s community – nearly 760,000 strong – who are driven to make a difference. “At Penn State, I’ve found a community whose members support one another. Everyone’s viewpoint is unique and necessary for innovation. I've met so many incredible individuals and perspective has allowed me to grow my understanding of myself and of the world.”
“Quiet on set!” Professor Gregory Huff, Ellie Wheeler, and Owen Smith (left to right) observe the crew as they started filming in a state-of-the-art electrical engineering laboratory.
“I collaborate every day,” said Owen Smith, senior musical theatre major. “The video is about taking different perspectives and combining them to make something new and strong, and that has consistently been my experience at Penn State and in my program.”
The video production continued filming into the early hours of the morning, filming the soccer scene at Jeffrey Field until 2 a.m. to capture the perfect shot.
Ellie Wheeler, senior human development and family studies major, practices collaboration and teamwork in the classroom and on the field as a women’s soccer player. “My experience at Penn State aligns with the video’s message in a lot of ways. Being an athlete, you are always working together towards a common goal by listening to other people’s ideas and perspectives to team up and find a solution.”
Penn State is a community inspired by pushing past limitations while exploring real-world opportunities like entrepreneurship, philanthropy, research, internships and more.
Recognized student organizations.
Intramural and club sports.
Best Public Schools for Internships (Princeton Review, 2024).
Majors that reimagine the world.
From the "We Are Penn State" cheer to the “world's best student section,” traditions are a source of pride and connection for our global community.
Learn about the beginnings and legendary symbols of some of Penn State’s traditions.
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