Penn State Scranton's Corporate Communication student marshal, Sophia Birtel
DUNMORE, Pa. — Penn State Scranton is highlighting the campus' student marshals who will lead their fellow graduates during the 57th commencement ceremony procession on May 10 at The Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple. In this series, we will feature students selected as marshals for their academic programs. Join us as we explore their academic journeys, insights and advice for future students.
Student Marshal: Sophia Birtel
Major: Corporate Communication, B.A. and business minor
Q: What are your post-grad plans?
Birtel: After graduation, I’ll be stepping into my new role in social services this May, where I’m eager to apply my skills to support and uplift our community. At the same time, my fiancé and I have just closed on our first home together — an exciting milestone that has our weekends filled with painting swatches and dreaming up décor ideas. All while we’re in the midst of planning our wedding, from finalizing the guest list to choosing the perfect venue and details that will make our day uniquely ours. Balancing a new role, homeownership, and wedding preparations will certainly be busy, but I’ve developed strong project‑management and time‑management skills through my academic projects and internship experiences, and I’m confident I can juggle these milestones successfully, especially if I have the people I love by my side throughout all these adventures.
Q: What was your favorite memory at Penn State Scranton?
Birtel: Working with an enthusiastic group of other students to plan the Valhalla Veterans event is one of my fondest memories from my time at Penn State Scranton. Working as a team, organizing every aspect, and watching the event in support of our Veterans come to life was an amazing experience. It was more than just a project or class because of the enthusiasm and sense of purpose we had; it felt meaningful and influential. All of the effort was worthwhile when I saw the gratitude from the veterans and the campus community, and it served as a reminder of the strength of student-led initiatives when we have similar objectives.
Q: What was your favorite learning experience?
Birtel: The internship I had with the Student Leadership and Involvement office was my favorite educational experience at Penn State Scranton. Through practical experiences and actual campus efforts, it enabled me to apply what I was learning in class and advance my professional development in an environment of encouragement and support. I learned a lot about organizing events, reaching out to students, and the unseen efforts that go into making a campus community lively. Working closely with a committed team taught me how to manage various duties, communicate effectively, and adjust to new challenges—all of which aided in my career and personal development. My time at Penn State Scranton was genuinely shaped by this experience, which also helped me get ready for life following graduation.
Q: What experience prepared you the most for what is next?
Birtel: The experience that most prepared me for the future was my internship with the Student Leadership and Involvement office. In that role, I developed the ability to balance creative vision with realistic limitations, transforming early session brainstorming into fully executed events. Working with a variety of student clubs and organizations improved my ability to communicate, build agreement, and change course quickly when unexpected challenges arose. By creating thorough objectives, keeping an eye on spending plans, and evaluating outcomes to promote ongoing development, I also improved my project management skills. Above all, being a member of a supportive team helped me understand the importance of partnership and mentoring, giving me the confidence and useful tools I'll need to tackle obstacles in the future.
Q: Who at Penn State Scranton has supported you and how?
Birtel: During my time at Penn State Scranton, Program Coordinator of Corporate Communication Kelly Conlon-Mazzucca has been an amazing source of guidance and encouragement. She took the time to learn about my academic objectives and interests during our initial advising session, and she assisted me in creating a course schedule that would push me academically while still keeping me on track to graduate. She was always there to offer insightful advice and useful tactics whenever I had to make difficult decisions, whether it was picking courses of study, juggling work and school, or getting ready for internships. Beyond the classroom, Conlon-Mazzucca provided me with networking opportunities and insightful criticism on my professional efforts. Her trust in my abilities enabled me to push myself, and her unwavering support was crucial in converting my goals into reality.
Q: Do you have any advice for incoming students beginning their Penn State journey?
Birtel: As someone who recently finished my time here at Penn State Scranton, I can tell you that you're about to experience something very unique. I was both anxious and eager when I first got here, and I had no idea what the upcoming years would entail. But Penn State became more than just a campus — it became a home. Become involved as soon as possible. I wish someone had advised me this sooner. The small things, like greeting the person seated next to you in class, going to an event, or attending a group, may be the source of your most treasured memories.
Meet the Marshal series
Stay tuned for as we continue to highlight our student marshals for their outstanding accomplishments. Each individual represents the dedication, talent and spirit of excellence that define the Penn State Scranton community.
