Brandywine business student: Beyond the classroom

MEDIA, Pa. — When Alexander Jermacans arrived at Penn State Brandywine as a first-year student, he faced one of the biggest decisions of his college journey: choosing a major. Like many students, he said, he felt the pressure of picking the right path from among dozens of options where each one had the potential to shape a different future. Torn between multiple interests and career possibilities, Jermacans found himself navigating a process that can feel overwhelming, confusing and personal. 

With interests in marketing, finance and accounting, settling on just one felt impossible, he said. After taking a variety of introductory courses and speaking with his college peers, Jermacans discovered he had a strong interest in the business world. 

“Being a business major at Penn State Brandywine gave me time and options to take different classes to see what I liked,” said Jermacans, now a fourth-year student. 

Penn State Brandywine offers a major in business that combines academic excellence with real-world relevance. For Jermacans, choosing a major initially felt overwhelming, but the support of dedicated faculty and the opportunity for hands-on learning made all the difference, he said.

“With every major offered at Brandywine, there is something for everyone,” said Jermacans. “I had the chance to attend very informative events during my time on campus.” 

One major turning point in Jermacans’ academic career thus far came in an unlikely place, he said: math class. 

“I really struggled with math all throughout middle and high school,” explained Jermacans. “I had Professor (Kimberly) Schultz (lecturer in mathematics) for my first math class at Brandywine, and she was able to unlock whatever math block I had in my brain. I was very successful in that class.”

In addition to the strong faculty support, Penn State Brandywine offers a variety of resources and events to enhance student learning while preparing them for the future. Jermacans took his experiences and is applying them to his future endeavors. 

Over the summer, Jermacans was an intern for United States Liability Insurance (USLI). He worked on their lead generation team inside the customer distribution department. Jermacans helped in identifying other businesses across the country and sold them insurance.

“There were a lot of skills that I learned in my business courses at Brandywine that I used at USLI,” said Jermacans. 

A lot of courses offered at Brandywine help to set students up for success no matter what major they are involved in. Specifically, courses in business have been helpful for students anywhere from looking for a summer internship to writing professional emails and resume help. 

“My internship at USLI made me interested in possibly working in the world of insurance,” said Jermacans.  

With experience under his belt, Jermacans said he is excited to continue his academic career in the world of business. While continuing his internship throughout the semester, Jermacans plans to gain more experience while also expanding his network.

Looking back, Jermacans said he is grateful that he allowed himself to explore all of his options and extends that piece of advice to all students.

“Keep your options open,” he said.

The business major at Penn State Brandywine helps to empower students to excel at the highest level. With opportunities to build professional networks, gain real-world experience and explore personal passions and strengths, students are set on a path towards long-term success.