Road to Commencement: Natasha Agape

Major: Biology

Graduation Date: Dec. 20, 2024

As Natasha Agape prepares to graduate on Dec. 20, she reflects on her time at Penn State Brandywine and the unique experiences she had.

“I chose to come to Brandywine because of its proximity to home. I was able to commute to college rather than stay in the residence hall,” she said. “I wanted to save as much money as possible, and Penn State Brandywine was the most affordable option for me.”

During her time at Brandywine, Agape was very involved on campus. She joined the Multicultural Club, Forensics Club, Asian American and Pacific Islander Club, Lion Guidez and the National Society for Leadership and Success. She was also a Lion Ambassador and an orientation leader. She noted her involvement at Brandywine has helped her build meaningful connections.

“All of these organizations gave me the opportunity to network with other students of similar interests and create new social connections, especially in my early college years,” she said. “I’m always looking for a sense of community wherever I go, and joining these clubs – even if it was only for a short time – allowed me to create lasting friendships and support systems.”

Agape said one of her greatest accomplishments during her time at Brandywine was conducting research, specifically with Assistant Professor of Chemistry Anna Sigmon.

“I’ve been able to practice so many different lab skills that I’ve learned over the years, and I’m now able to apply them to my own independent research,” she said.

In Spring 2024, she completed research with Sigmund and Ndella Jagne (class of 2024) and presented the findings at the Student Engagement Expo and the Excellence in Undergraduate Research, Entrepreneurship and Creative Achievement (EURECA) convention. While at EURECA, she and Jagne won first place in the physical science category.

“Overall, conducting research has been a really invaluable experience that has definitely guided me in the right direction for my future.”

When reflecting on her favorite memory from her time at Brandywine, Agape recalled her study abroad trip to Ireland in Spring 2023.

“Traveling is one of my favorite things to do because I love to experience new cultures, meet so many different people and expand my knowledge of the world. We spent our time exploring the cities and countryside of Dublin, Belfast and Galway, which were all breathtaking,” she said. “Going to Ireland was a really unique experience to share with people I had built relationships with during my time at Brandywine.”

Agape said that one of the most valuable lessons she’s learned at Brandywine, and advice she wants to give to future Penn State students, is to surround yourself with people who support you.

“Surround yourself with people who truly bring out the best in you. That may take time, but it’s okay,” she said. “I’d rather have a small circle of supportive friends who make my time here worthwhile than a huge group of people who barely know me. Those few friends are really going to be the ones who help you and push you through all the challenges that college throws at you.”