Penn State Scranton's psychology student marshal is Elizabeth Morris.
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: Elizabeth Morris
Major: Bachelor of arts in psychology
Q: What are your post-grad plans?
Morris: I plan to attend the University of Scranton for their Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's program. Afterwards, I hope to become a licensed therapist for children and adolescents.
Q: What was your favorite memory at Penn State Scranton?
Morris: I have so many great memories at this campus it’s hard to just choose one. One of the memories that comes to mind is when the campus held a free spring concert in 2022 with headliner Jesse McCartney! I had a ton of fun there. It was my first semester at Penn State, so it definitely made a lasting impression on me and the kinds of cool activities this campus holds. I would also say a lot of good memories stemmed from research meetings with my peers that were held every Monday. We had some great conversations and laughs in that designated time slot, and it was something I looked forward to each week.
Q: What was your favorite learning experience?
Morris: My favorite learning experience was definitely engaging in undergraduate research and presenting research at the National Council of Family Relations conference in Seattle, Washington. With the great assistance of Assistant Professor of Psychology Nicole Watkins, I was able to engage in independent research and submit my research to a conference on the west coast. Being able to present among professionals in the field and learn about a lot of the research going on in the field currently was an experience I will never forget. It truly solidified my love and passion for the field. Not to mention, traveling and experiencing Seattle in my down time was super cool!
Q: What experience prepared you the most for what is next?
Morris: There were a couple of experiences that prepared me the most for the future, and it’s hard to pick just one. I would say one of them was participating in research. Being able to grasp how research is conducted and the entire process behind it will be extremely beneficial to me in graduate school. Seeing the ongoing research in the field at an international conference allows me to go into my future career as a counselor ready to tackle what trends are on the upcoming. Additionally, working with peers on research projects will prepare me for working in groups among peers or coworkers in graduate school and even in my future career as a counselor. Lastly, "PSYCH 449: Basic Counseling Skills," taught by Adjunct Lecturer of Psychology Gina Romano, has sufficiently prepared me for my career as a counselor and what to expect as I head into graduate school for clinical mental health counseling.
Q: Who at Penn State Scranton has supported you and how?
Morris: Many staff, faculty and students have strongly supported me throughout my journey here at Penn State Scranton. The entire psychology department has thoroughly supported me throughout my academic journey, encouraging me and lending me advice on how to navigate schooling and career paths for my major. I truly am so grateful for all of them and the wonderful learning experiences and support they provided me. Specifically, Watkins has been and continues to be a huge supporter of mine. She served as my research adviser for about a year and a half, being there every step of the way and aiding me in my research journey here at Penn State. She always gave me great advice regarding my future in the field and was a huge help in my application to graduate school.
Romano has been a huge help to me as well by offering endless advice on graduate school and the career field of counseling. She is always a great person to bounce questions and ideas off as someone who has experience in the counseling world. Assistant Teaching Professor of Psychology Renae McNair and Assistant Professor of Psychology Bella Provenzano are also incredible advisers and instructors who offered amazing support and encouragement to me and all students. Additionally, I was a work study student in the Academic Affairs office for about three years. All the staff within that office and the surrounding offices have been extremely helpful and supportive of my academic journey and were always willing to help and talk about anything. I have gained great experience and memories working with these staff members and I am truly thankful for them for allowing me to work there and supporting me every step of the way.
Q: Do you have any advice for incoming students beginning their Penn State journey?
Morris: My advice for incoming students would be don’t just go to campus, attend class and leave. Connect with your professors and campus community. Engage in research, workshops, events, clubs, sports and extracurricular activities. There are so many great opportunities this campus has to offer! Your college experience will feel so much easier when you make connections with your professors, attend office hours and reach out for help when needed! Also, attending events here on campus and connecting with other students will allow you to create lifelong friendships and memories. Step out of your comfort zone and enjoy everything Penn State Scranton has to offer!
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.
