Session: Successful Student Chapters:

This year the Pennsylvania State University student chapter, Nittany Chemical Society, has focused on increasing chapter growth through community outreach and promotion of professional development among students. The club organized a large virtual science night with many schools in the community to get young students engaged in chemistry through at home demos. The club began bringing in outside speakers from industry for the first time to share their experiences. We also collaborated with the chemistry department to develop student cohorts focused on graduate school and medical school to help guide younger undergraduates and educate them on potential career paths. Furthermore, the club has strengthened relationships with the chemistry department through creating department merchandise as fundraisers, holding a virtual professor meet and greet as well as a research networking event to encourage younger undergraduates to become involved with the department. These events have allowed us to exhibit student leadership at Penn State University within the chemistry department as well as have a positive impact on our local community.

Joseph Houck

Associate Teaching Professor, Penn State University

Appearances