Brandywine communications student gains leadership skills through involvement

MEDIA, Pa. — Penn State Brandywine third-year student Gabrielle Davis is paving her way to success by taking advantage of every opportunity on campus.

Davis, who is a high-achieving communications major with a corporate communications option, said she chose Penn State because of the close-knit feel it offers.

“Although it's a small campus, I really like the sense of community and engagement,” said Davis.

She also shared that being a student here has allowed her to build a strong and supportive network. Through her involvement on campus, Davis has connected with people from diverse backgrounds and had the opportunity to collaborate with them along the way. 

Aside from maintaining a 4.0 GPA and having been previously employed on campus, Davis said she applies her knowledge of corporate communications to many clubs on campus, including as president of Brandywine’s Marketing and Communications Club.

“I feel like I have the resources, and I wanted to be more involved in supporting people in my major,” said Davis.

In her role, she said, she coordinates events and initiatives designed to support students pursuing marketing and communications.

Davis is also involved with other key Penn State Brandywine organizations, including Brandywine Benefitting THON and the Student Government Association.

Balancing her many commitments is not always easy, Davis said, but her key to success is “staying on top of your work and engaging with your community.”

She further explained, “What I really like about Penn State Brandywine is the amount of care and support given by staff.”

Davis said she credits much of her growth to mentors Patton Vo, director of campus development, and Karen Theveny, assistant teaching professor, who she said encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone and helped her recognize her strengths.

Davis' advice to new students looking to find their own path is to go to the involvement fair, sign up for clubs and meet new people. After that, she said, everything will fall into place.

“If you have a passion," she said, "just get out there and do it.”