Behind the desk: Life as a student worker at Penn State Brandywine

MEDIA, Pa. — At Penn State Brandywine, students have the opportunity to work part time in a variety of campus departments. These different roles allow students to gain real-world experience while contributing to their daily operations as college students. For second-year student Kyra Martin, the Office of Advising and Career Service has offered her not just employment, but the chance to learn and grow her network beyond the classroom.  

As a psychology major with a double minor in peace and conflict and human development and family studies, Martin’s newest role is office assistant for advising and career services.

“I typically handle scheduling appointments, delegating tasks and managing events,” Martin said.

The Office of Advising and Career Services has provided Martin with more than just a part-time job; it also has connected her with a mentor. Having been homeschooled through high school, Martin initially found the transition to college difficult to navigate. During that adjustment period, she often spent her free time talking with Dennis Dozier, administrative support assistant in the office. Dozier has become a trusted guide and source of encouragement.

“He has helped me transition smoothly, find my voice and learn to speak for myself,” said Martin.

Before becoming a student at Brandywine, Martin knew the campus held the potential for her to grow as an individual. From the moment she set foot on campus, Brandywine became home away from home.

“I felt like this was the perfect place for me, from the location to the class sizes; I felt like I could really make an impact on this campus," said Martin.

As a resident of Orchard Hall, Brandywine’s residence hall, Martin enjoys being at the heart of campus life. Living on campus has helped her feel connected to other students, get involved and take advantage of all that is happening on campus.

“The residence hall is a big community where everybody knows each other and we get to attend a lot of fun events,” Martin said.

Another influential presence in Martin’s academic and personal journey is Marinda Harrell-Levy, associate professor of human development and family studies. Through thought-provoking discussions and engaging lectures, Harrell-Levy has challenged Martin to think critically and explore new perspectives that resulted in her decision to double minor.

“Dr. Marinda pulls things out of you that you did not even know were there,” said Martin.

Balancing academics, campus life and a part-time job is not always easy, but Martin said the experience has helped her develop important time management and communication skills.

Looking ahead, Martin plans to continue taking advantage of opportunities at Brandywine. Whether it is leadership roles in campus organizations or personal and career development opportunities, Martin is excited to see what else Brandywine has in store for her.

“I truly believe being at this campus has helped me develop so many skills by being able to network and put myself in rooms that I thought I didn’t deserve to be in,” said Martin.