DUNMORE, Pa. — Penn State Scranton is highlighting the campus' student marshals who will lead their fellow graduates during the 58th commencement ceremony procession on May 9 at The Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple. In this series, we will feature students selected as marshals for their academic programs.
Below, Zamarra Vrabel, who is recieving a bachelor of arts degree in corporate communication, minoring in business administration, shared insights about her Penn State Scranton journey, future plans and advice for incoming students.
Q: What are your post-grad plans?
Vrabel: I will be forever grateful for my college experience, but I am excited to move on to the next chapter. I’ve been accepted into a position I’m extremely passionate about, and I can’t wait to start that journey. For now, I plan on celebrating graduation with the people I love and soaking in every moment of the next few weeks.
Q: What was your favorite memory at Penn State Scranton?
Vrabel: It’s so difficult to choose just one favorite memory from Penn State Scranton. Honestly, every day here was so much fun, and I truly consider campus my second home. Helping other students and watching them thrive on campus has been so rewarding. Being part of the campus life social media team pushed me outside my comfort zone. Working in the Student Services and Engagement office showed me how awesome it is to work with a great team.
If I had to pick just one standout memory, it would be the Leadership Week trip to Fuller’s Farm in 2025. That trip helped me build connections with other student leaders who became not just great colleagues, but some of my best friends. From late-night talks and karaoke to decorating for Matt Nied’s birthday and exploring nature in the pouring rain, it perfectly captured the sense of community that I value most about this campus.
Q: What was your favorite learning experience?
Vrabel: One of my favorite learning experiences was in my Intercultural Communications class. We had to create our own podcast by interviewing someone from a different culture. At first, I was nervous because I had never worked on a project like this before. In the end, I had so much fun with it, especially getting to be creative with the editing process. That project really helped me realize that it’s okay to try something different from what you are used to. The podcast ended up winning a few awards, which was really cool and rewarding. I still look back on it as a reminder that you never really know what can come from just putting yourself out there and doing your best.
Q: What experience prepared you the most for what is next?
Vrabel: As I graduate, I can confidently say that all the opportunities I’ve had have prepared me for what’s next. From planning events to mentoring students and building connections, each role taught me something valuable. Being really involved allowed me to experience a little bit of everything, and I truly believe it all played a part in preparing me for life after graduation.
Q: Who at Penn State Scranton has supported you and how?
Vrabel: The students, faculty and staff at Penn State Scranton have been incredible throughout my entire college career. I always knew I had a supportive Penn State family in my corner. The Student Services and Engagement staff helped me grow and become more confident as a student leader. They were always there for advice, support, or just a great laugh. My corporate communication professors, Dr. [Stephanie] Longo and Professor [Kelly] Mazzucca, always went above and beyond to ensure their students had strong resources and were prepared for the professional world. And to the students I’ve met along the way, so many of you have impacted my experience more than you know. Some have become my closest circle, and I know the memories we have made here will forever have a special place in my heart. Thank you to everyone who made this chapter so wonderful, it makes saying goodbye truly bittersweet.
Q: Do you have any advice for incoming students beginning their Penn State journey?
Vrabel: My advice to incoming students is to enjoy every moment and take every opportunity, because these four years really do fly by. Put yourself out there, get involved, and be someone who helps make Penn State Scranton not just a campus, but a home.
Meet the Marshal series
Stay tuned for as we continue to highlight our student marshals for their outstanding accomplishments. Each individual represents the dedication, talent and spirit of excellence that define the Penn State Scranton community.