UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Hunter Steach, a third-year student from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is making his mark at Penn State through a blend of academics and out-of-classroom experiences, including internships and student leadership. Majoring in political science with a minor in economics, Steach is also a proud Paterno Fellow and Schreyer Scholar, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence and leadership.

Steach’s decision to come to Penn State was made, he said, after visiting his older sister when she was a student.

“When my older sister transferred to Penn State University Park from a small liberal arts college, I saw her personal and professional prospects blossom. I began to visit more often and started to adore this community myself,” Steach said. “I began to realize that almost above all else, I wanted to attend a university with an unparalleled community. That is exactly what I have found here at Penn State and in the College of the Liberal Arts.”

A longtime passion for law and an interest in political science is what led Steach to the College of the Liberal Arts and a congressional internship with Rep. Dan Meuser of Pennsylvania’s 9th Congressional District this past summer.

“Working in Congress was truly a dream come true,” Steach said.

During his internship, he attended hearings and briefings, conducted research on legislation and offered tours of the U.S. Capitol Complex — valuable experiences that deepened his understanding of the legislative process. His dedication earned him the opportunity to represent Pennsylvania at the 2024 Republican National Convention, an unforgettable experience that he said further shaped his aspirations.

Steach credits the Liberal Arts Career Enrichment Network for making his internship possible through enrichment funding.

“Washington, D.C., is notoriously expensive, and this funding lifted the financial burden off my shoulders, allowing me to fully focus on my career development,” he said.

Steach also credits his liberal arts education for preparing him to chase his professional dreams.

“I have been taught to think critically through problems, communicate effectively and ultimately, become a well-rounded student,” he said. “As I plan to attend law school, my liberal arts education has been a catalyst in my growth for this next step and ensuring that I am well-prepared for the endeavors that lie ahead.”

Becoming a Paterno Fellow is a challenge Steach took on because he knew the program would help him grow, he said.

“I can confidently say that throughout my life, I have consistently undergone the most personal growth after pushing myself. The Paterno Fellows Program holds students to a higher standard of academic and leadership excellence — two things I have focused on building throughout my college career,” Steach said. “The program is full of some of my most-talented peers, and I truly love being a member of a community of such hard-working young adults.”

Steach has stepped into leadership roles outside the college as well, including chief justice of the University Park Undergraduate Association (UPUA), where he oversees the judicial branch and ensures fairness within the organization. Steach said his involvement in UPUA since his first year has only strengthened his passion for student leadership.

Steach’s passion extends beyond UPUA. As both a Lion Ambassador and a member of the Lion Caucus, Steach advocates for students and strives to give back to the Penn State community that has given him so much. 

“I feel that the least I can do is be an impactful student who makes the most of his time here,” he said.
    
Despite a busy schedule filled with leadership roles and academic commitments, which also includes serving as director of special events for Penn State College Republicans, Steach said he has learned to balance it all by staying organized and maintaining a positive attitude. 

“If you have fun with the things you are doing, you won’t feel burdened by the workload,” he said.