ABINGTON, Pa. — Penn State Abington students are sharing their stories and experiences in real conversations with the launch of "The Pawdcast," a student-produced podcast that offers an authentic look at life on campus. It's available wherever you stream your podcasts.
Recorded in the new podcast studio in the Academic Building, the podcast gives listeners an inside look at academics, campus life, career preparation, and the people who make up Abington's close-knit community just outside of Philadelphia. The podcast also gives students the opportunity to develop hands-on professional skills in digital media and content creation and leadership.
Episode 1, titled "Leading the Way," features Student Government Association (SGA) officers sharing their Abington Experience. SGA President Kadidiatou Bah reflected on being a first-generation Black and Muslim student and the sense of belonging she has found at Abington.
"It's important for me to share my college experience because I come from several different backgrounds. I want other students to know that no matter where they come from, where they live, or what they look like, college is possible, and they can have the college experience they want," Bah said.
By listening to the podcast, Bah hopes students explore the welcoming and supportive Abington community.
"I want students to see that there are people who share similar experiences. There are peers and resources on campus that they can lean on and turn to, and there are people here who want to help them succeed," she said. "I hope they realize that we are a community and a family that is here to support one another."
Student producer Sofia Coleman, who also is a member of Abington Chancellor Gary Liguori’s leadership development group, believes the podcast offers a fresh perspective about life on campus.
"This podcast personifies our campus. It allows for opinions and experiences from faculty and students that you might not get otherwise,” Coleman said.
"The Pawdcast" is co-hosted by Liguori, who wants the students to drive content focused on connection, belonging and student success.
"When we talk openly about what's on students' minds, including their priorities, their worries, and the solutions they come up with together, it helps all of us feel more connected and more like we belong at Abington,” Liguori said. “It's their platform, in their voices, and I’m excited to watch them share their stories, lift each other up, and support one another on the path to lifelong wellness and success."
“This is a chance to hear directly from our students about the academic, leadership development, and real-world opportunities that make up the Abington Experience,” Liguori continued.
About Penn State Abington
Penn State Abington, home to nearly 3,000 students in Greater Philadelphia, offers four-year degrees, the first two years of any Penn State degree, and NCAA Division III athletics. The Abington Experience launches students from campus to career through internships, leadership development, academic travel, and faculty-led research and creative work. Penn State Abington — where the city's energy meets the best of the suburbs.