Taylor Puskar
	Mechanical Engineering
	Class of 2014

Hometown: Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania

High School: Seneca Valley High School

Extracurricular Activities: Women in Engineering Program Orientation, THON, FreshSTART, IM Sports

Why did you choose to come to Penn State? As a high school student, I was looking for a school with a large sense of community, fantastic academic programs, and a learning experience. Penn State embodies all of these aspects and has exceeded my expectations on all levels. I chose to attend The Pennsylvania State University because I knew I would be receiving a world class education, as well as opportunities to get involved in many other activities of my interests.

What has been your best memory as an engineering student? As a female engineering student, I participated in the Women in Engineering Program Orientation. This program allowed me to meet other engineering students and have fun while learning. This experience helped me find my excitement for engineering at Penn State and is still one of my best memories as an engineering student.

What advice would you give a first-year engineer? My advice to a first-year engineering student would be to take advantage of everything the university and engineering department has to offer. If you don't know if you will like something, just try it! Opportunities to get involved in a variety of things are plentiful and part of the Penn State experience.

What do you plan to do after graduation? Upon graduation I plan on pursuing a career as a design, manufacturing, or test engineer. I have not decided exactly what area of industry I would like to pursue a career in, however am interested in everything from automotive to biomechanics.

What has been your best experience outside of engineering at Penn State? Outside of engineering, my involvement in the Penn State Dance Marathon has been one of the best experiences I have had. As a committee member I have had countless memorable experiences that are all centered around finding a cure for pediatric cancer. Knowing that I have the opportunity as a Penn State student to make the difference in the life of a child is rewarding in ways I never imagined.