Andrew Placencia
- Student
- Automotive
From time to time, an extraordinary leader rises above the crowd. Rallies others. Exudes positivity. And shines by example. That’s Andrew. He’s a standout Automotive Technology Management student, proud ROTC cadet, and soon-to-be commissioned second lieutenant. Andrew is also president of the veteran’s fraternity Omega Delta Sigma. Supports military students as an on-campus veteran service assistant. And is first to volunteer when help is needed.
TAKING THE LEAD
Q&A with Andrew
WHERE DID YOUR PATH TAKE YOU AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?
After high school I worked at a car wash for a couple of months. Upon some self-reflection, I decided to enlist in the United States Army as an active duty soldier where I served for approximately four years.
WHY PENN COLLEGE?
When I was transferring out of active duty (being a full-time soldier), I was looking for programs that involved more hands-on learning that would enhance the skills I already had. I wanted something different than the traditional classroom.
WHAT LED YOU TO AUTOMOTIVE?
Ever since I was young, I had a fascination with and was introduced to a plethora of different vehicles. Growing up I would help and learn from my uncles with their cars and projects. My love for American-made muscle cars came from my mother when she bought a ’76 Ford Mustang. My fascination only grew after joining the military where I got to fix, clean, and drive certain armored vehicles.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR PROGRAM?
I like how the instructors have a passion in their line of work and they show it by the way they give their lessons. Also, how the program allows us to diagnose problems as if it were a real-life situation at a dealership. I love how the instructors will go out of their way to help a struggling student with problems they had with the lesson being taught.
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT ABOUT PENN COLLEGE?
My favorite aspect about Penn College has to be the hands-on experience. Getting to work on vehicles and diagnose real-life automotive problems, all while getting a grade for it is pretty amazing.
HOW DID YOU END UP GETTING INVOLVED IN ROTC?
DO YOU THINK YOUR ROTC EXPERIENCE CHANGED YOUR TRAJECTORY?
HOW HAS YOUR ROTC EXPERIENCE BENEFITED YOU THUS FAR?
WHAT ARE YOUR POST-GRADUATION GOALS?
My post-graduation goals are to be commissioned as an active duty second lieutenant for the United States Army. I will also be applying to be a Gold Bar Recruiter for the ROTC program where I will be assisting with recruitment. My career goal is to be an ordnance officer where I will make sure that weapons systems, vehicles, and equipment are ready and available, and in perfect condition at all times. I also hope to manage the developing, testing, fielding, handling, storage, and disposal of munitions.
Real-World Ready
Andrew Placencia
Awards
Recognizing excellence
Andrew's hard work and commitment over the past four years has not gone unnoticed. And we wouldn't have it any other way. He received the following honors.
- Commencement Student Speaker
Awarded to a student who possesses the ideal characteristics of a Penn College graduate: strong academic achievement, demonstrated leadership, positive campus involvement, and service to the College and/or community. - Lewis H. Bardo Memorial Award
Presented to a graduate who exemplifies the ideas of Lewis H. Bardo (devotion to duty, helpfulness to others, friendliness, and high ideals). - Patriot Award
Given to an exceptional military or veteran student hand-picked by the Veterans & Military Office.
Spreading joy
Annual Tree Decorating
Each December, the College's military family decorates the Veterans Holiday Tree outside of the Madigan Library. Andrew and his crew take pride in this annual tradition that pays respect to service personnel near and far.
Community Involvement
Giving back
Andrew and fellow ROTC students and mentors volunteered to staff an aid station at a community trail race that raised $20,000 to support the Salvation Army and Penn College’s Veteran and Military Services.