Is Penn State worth going to? Balancing Education and Career Prospects

The decision to attend Penn State can be complex, as it largely depends on the academic field and individual career goals. This article explores the factors influencing the worth of Penn State, focusing on the value of the education received and the subsequent opportunities in the job market.

Education and Major Programs at Penn State

Harry, a former admissions officer and Penn State graduate, shares, "Like others have mentioned, it greatly depends on the major you intend on going into. If you are interested in Engineering, Nursing, Business, or Education, Penn State has prominent programs for these fields." While Penn State may not be an Ivy League school, it offers a range of reputable programs that can provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for their desired careers. For instance, Penn State's College of Engineering is consistently ranked among the top engineering schools in the nation.

Personal Experiences and Insights

The experiences of Penn State alumni highlight the university's strong education and reputation. Ms. Jane Myers, who received her Master's in Plant Pathology and worked as a PhD candidate in the same department at Penn State, notes, "I found that the education and subsequent ability to find a related career to be top-notch." Ms. Myers' insights indicate that Penn State can be an excellent choice for those pursuing career-oriented studies, regardless of the specific field.

Mrs. Myers also mentions her son, who is a senior at Penn State majoring in Broadcast Journalism with a Sports Journalism sub-program. "It's the best. He spends half his time behind the mic getting hands-on experience. He does play-by-play for every sport and does two sports-talk shows on campus radio," Mrs. Myers beams, emphasizing the practical opportunities available for students to gain real-world experience while still at university.

Career Prospects and Employer Perception

The reputation of Penn State can significantly impact a student's career prospects. Ms. Myers states, "I have always been positively recognized by my business peers for having degrees from Penn State." Education from Penn State is often held in high regard, even by corporate recruiters. Penn State is frequently ranked among the top schools in the United States in terms of its recruits, indicating that employers value the education and credentials earned from the university.

Ms. Myers also shares the story of her daughter, who chose the Schreyer Honors College at Penn State, majoring in biology. "Her honors classes typically had 10 students and were very demanding. She graduated as the principal author of 5 published articles in prestigious peer-reviewed journals." The Schreyer Honors College provides a rigorous and personalized learning environment, offering students unique opportunities for academic and professional growth.

Flexibility and Academic Freedom

For students unsure of their academic path, Penn State's flexibility can be a significant advantage. Mr. Myers, in his email to alumni, mentions, "One of the reasons why I applied to Penn State was that I could study almost anything there and receive a very credible degree." He further explains that he started as a Chemistry major but later changed to Computer Science, adding a second degree in Management Science without losing any credits. This flexibility allows students to explore and adapt their academic interests as needed, which is not always possible at every institution.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the worth of attending Penn State can be assessed by considering the quality of education, the career opportunities, and the flexibility offered. While Ivy League schools may be the top choice for some, Penn State offers a robust educational experience and a strong reputation that can open doors in the job market. Whether you're interested in STEM fields, liberal arts, or specialized programs, Penn State can provide a valuable and rewarding academic journey.

For more detailed information or to address any questions, feel free to email the author at jmyers at alumni dot psu dot edu.