Feature Stories

Hatch joined the PA Game Commission in banding young barn owls from a local farm—one of the happiest days of her life.

No Plan, No Problem

Taking chances and opportunities as they come, Penn State Altoona graduate Haley Hatch has forged a path into environmental education.

Jen Parrish’s vision for her future has nothing, and everything, to do with her sight.

A devastating health diagnosis once felt like the end of everything Jen Parrish dreamt of for herself. Now, about to graduate from Penn State Altoona, she is at peace and more confident than ever in her future.

Zachary Kowalski, a 2024 communications graduate, visits a shrine in Kyoto, Japan, during his time as an intern in the country.

A Trip to Tokyo

Long enamored by the culture, beauty, and traditions of Japan, Zachary Kowalski was thrilled when he was hired for a 2024 summer internship at Drill Inc., a marketing company in Shibuya, Tokyo. It would be the perfect way to immerse himself in the Land of the Rising Sun, broaden his skill set, and gain professional experience.

Penn State Altoona alumnus Jason Levinn poses for a photo on the PSU 2020 locomotive.

Alumni Spotlight: Jason Levinn

Alumnus Jason Levinn shares his experience as a student in Penn State Altoona's Rail Transportation Engineering program.

A female loggerhead approaching the beach to nest. All activities in these photos were performed under permission from FWC MTPs 216 and 226.

Chasing Turtles: A Summer of Conservation

The summer of 2024 was one to remember for biology graduate Nicole Flanders—one of sand, sunsets, and sea turtles.

Emotions in Art

Heidi Manfred is using her kind heart and artistic skill to create conversation about mental health.

Vet to Vet

Michael Balmforth first served his country. Now, the Army veteran is serving his college and his community.

Eric Liddick, author of this year’s Common Read book, on stage with Common Read program coordinator Laura Rotunno.

All the Memories that Remain

A conversation with Common Read author E. M. Liddick.

Horror Joy

Two Penn State Altoona faculty take a deep dive into horror in hopes of finding joy lurking in the shadows.

Jarrett Gardner, Sue Patterson, CAPS counselor Alyssa Luther Vasko, and student Kadyn Carey at the NCAA Inclusion Forum.

Building Belonging, Inviting Inclusion

Jarrett Gardner is using his status as a student-athlete to create a campus where everyone feels safe, welcome, and accepted.