UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As a first-generation college student, Cameryn Allen, a third-year student majoring in psychology, did not know about all the resources and support systems available to her as a Penn State and College of the Liberal Arts student.
But an email from Patty Klug, director of the Roz and Gene Chaiken Center for Student Success, inviting Allen to join a first-generation student committee presented her with the opportunity to learn about the “endless” opportunities within her reach as a student.
“The fact that Patty randomly sent that email to me, in the simplest way possible, unknowingly supported me,” said Allen. “That is when I learned that being a first-generation student is a thing and that there are other students like me here.”
From there, she took the initiative and began learning about opportunities she wanted to pursue, like studying abroad and joining change-making organizations. Dayna Wenger, student and alumni relations coordinator and career coach within the Career Enrichment Network, noticed this drive and determination while discussing specific study abroad opportunities with Allen, during a career coaching appointment.
As a result, Wenger nominated Allen for the student liaison position on the Liberal Arts Alumni Society Board. Unbeknownst to the Philadelphia native, Klug had also nominated her for the position.
“I was honored that both of them nominated me for this,” said Allen. “I did not know this position existed prior, but I recognized that if you have to be nominated, then this was an opportunity that could be very impactful in our community.”
After learning that the role would allow her to represent Liberal Arts students and bring attention to their needs, Allen knew she was the “perfect fit” for the role.
“I am not scared to speak up,” said Allen. “They chose me for this role to explain what is going right, what is going wrong and what needs to be improved. I am confident enough to say these things in a room full of people who are more superior than I am, which could be intimidating for some.”
Although the board’s first meeting isn’t until Oct. 20, Allen has been busy gathering information for it. Among other things, she’s taking note of complaints, compliments or ideas from her fellow students that she can present to the board.
Allen said her goal is for students to know they do not always have to seek out extracurricular types of organizations for support, but can also go directly to the college.
“Within our college, there are organizations like the Chaiken Center or the Enrichment Network, which are different ways to get involved on campus,” said Allen. “The College of the Liberal Arts seeks to help and encourage students to be more involved.”
Although she stressed the importance of getting involved, Allen said mentors also play an important role in a student’s life. The possibility of fostering relationships with more mentors as she embarks on this new role excites her.