'(N)SO excited to meet you': Get to know orientation leader Cora Sisk

New Student Orientation program plays a key role in helping first-year students navigate transition to college
Student smiling wearing a PSU-Disney themed tshirt

Cora Sisk, a fourth-year corporate communication major, shares her experiences and advice for incoming students.

Credit: Morgan Sewack

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 Cora Sisk 

Cora Sisk is a fourth-year student majoring in corporate communication

Q: Why did you choose Penn State Scranton? 

Sisk: I chose Penn State Scranton because it is a great college for my major. It also is a school that has helped me develop many skills. 

Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to new students? 

Sisk: One piece of advice I’d give is to try new things and never turn down a club or organization. Being involved in clubs and organizations is one of the best things to happen in college to meet new people and friends. 

Q: Why should new students get involved on campus? 

Sisk: Students should get involved so they have things to do outside the classroom and to take a break from homework and to have fun.  

Q: What’s one must-have item or life hack for surviving your first year of college? 

Sisk: One must-have item or life hack is always having friends in different classes and clubs because you never know when they may be able to help you with different things. 

Q: What’s been your favorite Penn State Scranton memory so far? 

Sisk: My favorite Penn State Scranton memory so far is getting to represent us as a Disney College Program participant.  

Q: How has being an NSO Leader impacted your college experience? 

Sisk: Being an NSO leader impacted my college experience by teaching me more skills and to look into different opportunities that may benefit me in the future with my career and experiences.  

Q: What’s one thing you wish you knew before starting college? 

Sisk: One thing I wish I knew was to not be afraid to join clubs or put myself out there because I was very shy when I first started college.  

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.