SCHUYLKILL HAVEN, Pa. — What began as an opportunity to observe state government in action became a valuable leadership experience for Penn State Schuylkill student Alex Kull.
Kull, a fourth-year business marketing and management major with a minor in criminal justice, recently spent a day shadowing state Rep. JoAnne Stehr at the Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg. The opportunity, coordinated through Penn State Schuylkill's Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter, gave Kull an inside look at the legislative process while strengthening the leadership skills he will bring to his role as president of the Student Government Association (SGA) this fall.
Kull learned about the opportunity through Lisa Robinson, business lecturer and FBLA collegiate adviser at Penn State Schuylkill, who shared information with the chapter earlier this year. Interested in learning more about public service and government, Kull reached out to Robinson, who connected him with Stehr's office to arrange the visit.
"I found this to be a great opportunity to expand my network and a chance to learn something new," Kull said. "I wanted to see the inner workings of government and understand how bills, laws and resolutions are developed."
The day began with Kull meeting Stehr at her office in Harrisburg to review the day's schedule before attending a House Health Committee meeting. Kull later observed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in session, where he was recognized by the Speaker of the House, before returning for the afternoon legislative session.
Among the day's events, the Health Committee meeting left the greatest impression.
"Seeing how a committee meeting operates and how everyone worked together made me think about how I can lead student government," Kull said. "It inspired me to bring some of those practices into our meetings on campus."
The experience also reinforced lessons Kull has developed through his involvement in FBLA, where he has built leadership, communication and professional skills through competitions and service opportunities.
As he prepares to lead Penn State Schuylkill's Student Government Association, Kull said observing Stehr's leadership provided practical ideas for representing others effectively.
"It gave me numerous ideas on how I can properly lead and advocate for students and their needs and interests at Penn State Schuylkill," he said.
Stehr said she was thrilled to have Kull join her in Harrisburg and share his enthusiasm for learning about state government.
"He had the opportunity to observe a Health Committee meeting and the work taking place on the House floor,” Stehr said. “I also hope to connect him with some of our local beekeepers so he can continue exploring another one of his passions. Alex has a bright future ahead of him, and I truly enjoyed spending the day with him. I always welcome opportunities for students to visit the Capitol and encourage them to reach out — I am happy to share my experiences in the House of Representatives."
Kull said experiences outside the classroom have played an important role in preparing him for his future career. After graduation, he hopes to work in the nonprofit sector or in higher education, where he can continue serving communities through leadership and advocacy.
Penn State Schuylkill emphasizes experiential learning opportunities that allow students to connect classroom knowledge with real-world experiences. Through internships, leadership development, student organizations and partnerships with community leaders, students gain practical skills while building professional networks that prepare them for successful careers.