One of the benefits students have at a major national research university like Penn State is not only learning from faculty in the classroom but also working alongside them -- in the laboratory or the library -- doing research. Undergraduate students like Christine Theberge and Josh Yeh, who are conducting their own undergraduate research, and those who hold research assistant positions have the opportunity to expand their knowledge in areas of academic interest while developing valuable research skills and relevant work experience. (more)
Penn State officials have enacted a significant revision to a policy overseeing the supervision and treatment of minors involved in University-sponsored programs or programs housed or held at any Penn State campus. Administrative Policy 39 (AD39) has been updated as part of the University's comprehensive review of all of its policies, particularly those that involve children in the wake of sexual abuse charges against a retired assistant coach. Titled "Minors Involved in University-Sponsored Programs or Programs Held at the University and/or Housed in University Facilities," the policy is part of a series of steps that reinforce Penn State's safety measures for children on campus and for the entire University community. (more)
Through the end of the fall 2011 semester, Penn State has conferred a total of 686,793 degrees. As of spring 2012 the University's total number of graduates should approach 699,780. This spring Penn State expects to award approximately 12,987 diplomas to students University-wide who are completing 609 associate, 10,491 baccalaureate, 1,311 master's, 131 medical, 219 law and 226 doctoral degrees. At University Park 16 students are expected to receive associate degrees, while 8,537 will be awarded baccalaureate degrees. Approximately 979 master's degree students are expected to graduate, as are 226 doctoral degree candidates. All figures listed are estimates as of April 9. Following is a compilation of commencement ceremonies and speaker information for Penn State's 24 locations. (more)
There are many benefits to exercise. But many individuals have difficulties finding the time to exercise five days a week given the demands of work and family. The term "weekend warrior" describes an individual who compresses his weekly activity into long durations on the weekend instead of exercising throughout the week.
Exercise improves and maintains muscle mass, endurance and mobility and can improve appearance and self confidence. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that all healthy adults ages 18 to 65 years engage in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes, five days a week. Similar recommendations exist for adults older than 65 years of age with the caveat that aerobic fitness, flexibility and balance be taken into account. (more)
Throughout the year but especially in summer, high school students and their families visit Penn State, strolling along streets and sidewalks while learning about Penn State history, notable buildings and other distinctive facts important to students -- all from tour guides their age. "Most prospective students have such a short window of time to really get a feel for the University," said Lion Ambassador President Katie Perugini, a senior public relations major from West Wyoming, Pa. "In no more than two hours we articulate the history, traditions, student life and services to offer prospective students and their families the most accurate glimpse of what their life could be like at Penn State." (more)
Despite moving from Beaver Stadium -- its home for nine years--to Hills Plaza in State College, Trash to Treasure enjoyed another extremely successful spring sale on June 4. A video showcases the huge strides the program has taken in its decade of community, kindness and success. Trash to Treasure is a major success on multiple levels. To date, the program has raised over $490,000. All proceeds benefit the Centre County United Way. It also has kept 1.5 million pounds of goods from going to the landfill. Trash to Treasure is a community effort that helps families afford used items thanks to the annual donations of 14,000 Penn State students and 28,000 hours of service from a dedicated team of volunteers. (more)
Welcome Week kicks off each semester by greeting thousands of new Penn State students with fun and informative events that introduce them to life on campus and all that comes with it. Beginning Friday, Aug. 19, and continuing through the weekend, a variety of activities will be happening around campus that will get first-year students acclimated to the Penn State experience. (more)
Penn State's Office of Judicial Affairs has changed its name to the Office of Student Conduct, effective July 1. "The name change better reflects the office's longstanding mission of partnering accountability with education, and communicates the role we play in leadership and character development," explained Danny Shaha, senior director of the unit. (more)
Over the past two weekends, commencement ceremonies took place at Penn State's 24 campuses. Photos from these ceremonies give a glimpse of commencement activities across the University system. This spring, Penn State awarded about 12,500 diplomas to students University-wide who completed associate, baccalaureate, master's, medical, law and doctoral degrees.
Programs that create some common-sense restrictions when young drivers get behind the wheel have helped cut the rate of deadly crashes by more than half. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) looked at fatal crashes among 16- and 17-year-old drivers. (more)