Nathan Noel graduated from Penn State this spring with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in sociology. Credit: Kate Kenealy. All Rights Reserved.
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — What does it really mean to “find your place” at a place as large and diverse as Penn State?
For Nathan Noel, who graduated this spring with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in sociology from the College of the Liberal Arts, the journey to self-discovery hasn’t followed a straight line, he said, but was forged through numerous clarinet rehearsals, late-night hotline calls, and the quiet strength of being someone others can count on.
Born and raised in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, Noel had his eye on the mental health field as early as middle school, he said.
“I took a psychology class in high school, and I was hooked. From there, I realized social work could bring together my love for mental health and my growing passion for social justice and advocacy,” Noel said, noting that realization led to his sociology minor — a conscious choice to understand not just individuals, but the systems that shape them.
Noel’s college journey, though, didn’t begin with instant clarity.
“My first year was tough. I had more free time than I knew what to do with, and I was unsure on where I fit in,” he said.
But instead of forcing things, Noel waited, realizing that “I had to be patient and figure things out as I went. And eventually, I did.”
Noel became a counselor with local crisis hotline Centre Helps, a vital resource for those in need.
“I joined in my second year, and it’s been the best supplement to my courses,” Noel said. “I’ve learned so many skills I’ll take into my future career.”
Through hours of listening, offering resources and helping people feel seen, Noel said, he discovered that the classroom was just one part of his education.
“It’s also where I’ve met some of the most amazing people. I highly recommend for those interested to consider this unique opportunity with this organization,” he said.
Meanwhile, he said, he found outlets for other passions, including becoming a clarinetist in the Penn State Blue Band, a position he earned the second time he auditioned after being turned away his first year.
“I was on the fence about trying again. But I did, and I’m so glad,” Noel said. “Band is a huge commitment that people don’t always see — rehearsals, performances, balancing schoolwork —but it’s all worth it. Game days will be something I never forget. and Blue Band has allowed me to meet some of my greatest friends that I will have for the rest of my life.”
While his days were filled with music and service, his nights were spent as a resident assistant (RA) in Penn State’s residence halls — a role he held for two years.
“It’s allowed me to support first-year students the way I wish I’d been supported,” he said. “Being an RA has taught me leadership, patience and how to be a resource for others. This experience has allowed for me to build relationships and act as a resource for first-year students.”
In the classroom, Noel’s academic highlights included courses like PSYCH 470: Abnormal Psychology with Associate Teaching Professor of Psychology David Wimer, where mental health theory met the real-world experiences of a licensed therapist, and PSYCH 490: The Art and Science of Psychotherapy with Associate Teaching Professor of Psychology Maria Vinca.
“We did weekly mock therapy sessions in class,” Noel said. “We’d give and receive feedback — it was such a valuable experience in developing therapeutic skills.”
As he started to look toward life after graduation, Noel said, he leaned into another valuable resource — the Liberal Arts Career Enrichment Network. Through resume review events and one-on-one career coaching with staff members like Dayna Wenger and Lauren Granese, he was able to refine his graduate school application.
“Lauren Granese was especially helpful with my personal statement,” he said. “The network played a huge role in my application process.”
The work paid off, and Noel was accepted into his top choice — the University of Pittsburgh’s master of social work program.
“Pitt’s program is ranked highly, and they offer different certificate options that align with my interests,” he said. “Plus, it’s in Pittsburgh — the city closest to my heart. When I got in, and they offered me a scholarship, I was set on going there.”
Once he completes his master’s degree, Noel said he would like to pursue a career as a licensed clinical social worker working in mental health therapy.
“The great thing about social work is how many doors it opens,” he said. “I’m especially drawn to working with individuals, families and groups. I want to help people directly.”
Looking back, Noel said, he doesn’t define success by accolades or titles. Instead, it’s his journey — the struggles, the waiting, the growth — that he’s proudest of.
“I’m most proud of both my patience and involvement,” he said. “My first year didn’t go as planned, but I knew I had to be patient and figure things out as they go. And with time, I was able to truly find my place here at Penn State, and can say that I appreciate all of my experiences here, as they got me to where I am today.”
His advice for students feeling unsure about their path?
“Give yourself grace. Most students don’t know exactly what they want to do, even if it seems like they do,” he said. “And use your resources — career counselors, professors, advisers. Know that you have many people in your corner supporting you.”
Kathy Swidwa