Luke Snyder

What student organizations and activities are you involved in?

I am President of the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences Student Council and am an active member of the College’s THON organization, as well as Campus Weather Service. Throughout these clubs, I have met some of my closest friends and have made unforgettable memories that I wouldn’t have made elsewhere.

What is the one Penn State activity that everyone should participate in, and why?

Hands down has to be THON! Whether it be through the College of EMS’ THON organization, or another organization, every Penn State student should get involved in THON. Penn State THON helps raise funds and awareness for those affected by pediatric cancer and raises millions of dollars every year through various fundraisers and activities during the school year. The year-long efforts culminate every February during THON Weekend, and the feeling of tens of thousands of students gathering for one incredible cause is truly unmatched.

What’s the best part about being an EMS student?

The number of resources and support available to you as an EMS student is unmatched. The EMS community is incredibly connected and tightknit and can help set you up for success, for whatever that looks like to you. The extensive faculty and staff available not only provide help, but they WANT to help you and see you be the best that you can be.  

What is one piece of advice you would give to prospective students?

It’s okay to be scared. My first year at school felt so isolating because I didn’t realize that everyone else was going through the exact same thing as me. It’s okay to not have it all figured out as soon as you step foot on campus. Heck, I’m in my sixth semester and I still don’t have it all figured out! Just remember to take it one day at a time, and to not be too hard on yourself. As hard as you may try, there is never going to be a ”perfect” way to do college, so have fun and enjoy it!

What opportunities has Penn State provided for you so far?

One of the most amazing opportunities I’ve been able to gain was studying abroad in Cusco, Peru! While obviously not a unique experience to just Penn State students, the accessibility of studying abroad is amazing. I was able to learn about various programs around the world that focused on different topics. I got to explore different time lengths of abroad trips, and was able to focus on sustainability goals when searching for the right program.