Chaiken Scholar builds community through campus involvement

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Iyana Burrows, a third-year student majoring in psychology and minoring in human development and family studies, turned her college journey into a mission of connection and growth, embracing student leadership across several campus organizations at Penn State.

As a first-generation college student from Philadelphia, Burrows did not know what to expect when she came to the University but knew it was where she wanted to be due to the countless opportunities and resources it provides.

“Just knowing that there is a place where you can go or person you can talk to that will be able to help you figure out those things along the way is very, very helpful,” Burrows said. “I feel like Penn State is that place; there's always someone or somewhere you can go to figure out the answers you're trying to get for anything on any topic.”

Over time, Burrows has found her purpose and passion in building spaces where students feel seen, supported and empowered.

On campus, she serves as president of the Students’ Restorative Justice Initiative, social media chair for Mindfulness and the Science of Happiness (MASH), and event planner for the Liberal Arts First-Generation Committee. In these positions she has created inclusive spaces for conversations and community building.

“My favorite event was planning the Round Table Talk for the First-Gen Committee, which was based on getting student perspectives, as well as staff and faculty perspectives, on Academic Advising in the College of the Liberal Arts,” Burrows said.

For her efforts as an advocate for first-generation students and her own academic accomplishments, Burrows received the 2025 Liberal Arts Outstanding First-Gen Student Award at the Liberal Arts First-Gen Mixer in March. The award goes to students who show advocacy, mentorship and commitment to inclusion around campus.

Burrows said it can be hard to feel seen or heard at large universities like Penn State as a first-generation student, so receiving the award was confirmation that the college sees her efforts.

“This award has pushed me to want to continue my studies and continue to advocate for first-generation students and advocate for people to receive a post-secondary education,” Burrows said. “Even if their families didn't attend school, it is very important to me knowing that if I made it this far, other people can feel that too.”

One resource that has played a key role in her success is the Liberal Arts Chaiken Center for Student Success. Burrows received a Chaiken Scholarship upon arriving at Penn State, awarded in recognition of her strong academic performance in high school.

Chaiken Center Director Patty Klug encouraged her to get involved by planning events for the Liberal Arts First-Generation Committee and to join MASH. Burrows credits the support she’s received from academic advisers, staff and students in the college as unmatched.

For Burrows, the people she’s met have made all the difference.

“Whenever I see anyone from the College of the Liberal Arts, they’re always so welcoming,” she said. “Whether it’s students, staff, or faculty, people are genuinely engaged — always ready to talk, to learn more about each other’s studies, and to support one another on our individual journeys.”

After graduation, Burrows hopes to open her own child care center.