Isabella Touseull, a third-year elementary education major, shares her experiences and advice for incoming students.
DUNMORE, Pa. — Starting college can bring a mix of excitement and nerves, and student leaders play a key role in helping first-year students navigate that transition. As part of Penn State Scranton’s efforts to welcome the class of 2029, it's introducing its New Student Orientation (NSO) Program leaders through a series of Q&As.
Orientation leader Isabella Touseull
Isabella Touseull is a third-year student majoring in elementary education.
Q: Why did you choose Penn State Scranton?
Touseull: Having a mom as an alumna of Penn State Scranton, I was always brought up loving Penn State. Beyond that, I would attend the Nittany Cub Summer Camps when I was little and always dreamed of becoming an alumna myself.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to new students?
Touseull: One piece of advice I would give new students is to get involved on campus and throughout the community! College is a change from high school, but in the most amazing way!
Q: Why should new students get involved on campus?
Touseull: Getting involved on campus not only helps you become a better student, but you make so many new friends and get so familiar with your campus! Knowing your environment and the people around you makes the experience better!
Q: What’s one must-have item or life hack for surviving your first year of college?
Touseull: One life hack for surviving your first year of college would be to listen to people, especially ones who have been there before you. You are not always the smartest person in the room and taking advice from someone can change your whole experience for the better so that one day you can teach new and incoming students as well.
Q: What’s been your favorite Penn State Scranton memory so far?
Touseull: I have a lot of favorite memories at Penn State Scranton; some include meeting my boyfriend in the game room my first year of college, becoming a Lion Ambassador as well as a club member to many different clubs, maintaining a 4.0 grade-point average (GPA) and making dean's list, to name a few!
Q: How has being an NSO Leader impacted your college experience?
Touseull: While this is my first year as an NSO leader, and from my experience of being a Lion Ambassador as well, I can say that being able to see new students tour our campus and ponder the decision for college makes a world of difference to be able to share knowledge and even personal experiences that help them make the choice to come to Penn State Scranton!
Q: What’s one thing you wish you knew before starting college?
Touseull: One thing I wish I knew before college was that the nerves fly away when you come to Penn State! Live in the moment, get involved and have the best possible college experience!
New Student Orientation
New Student Orientation is designed to help incoming students and their families get to know Penn State Scranton. This interactive event covers everything from academics and advising to financial aid, billing and student services. Stay tuned for the rest of the series as NSO leaders introduce themselves and share their tips for making the most of the Penn State experience.
