Morgan Bartholomew

The second I stepped foot on this campus, I knew it was my new home. I had visited many campuses in the past when going through college tours for my brother and even looking at some for myself. Penn College just felt different. When going through the tours for the specific majors, it was heartwarming to see that you can create a bond with your professor and classmates, and even work directly with your professor. When I learned within the first week (or even day) of being in class, you’d be in the labs working, I was amazed. Most schools don’t have you in the lab until your second or third year. I've always been somebody who wants to learn something hands-on and knowing that I wouldn't have to wait a year or two was a deciding factor.

Touring at Penn College is definitely what helped me decide I wanted to go into the field of plastics and polymers. I think hearing that the opportunities are endless in this career path and that you can spread your wings in all directions and still find something was a really relieving feeling. Also just seeing how passionate the professors are and how they truly want us to succeed and make a difference, feels amazing. Just being able to know that I could go to work and create something new or better than something that's already out in the world is awesome.

The fact that I can go into the lab or work every day and create something new or work to better a process is exciting. When you look at the world today almost everything has some sort of plastic component to it. I love being able to be out in public and notice these things that maybe I might not have before entering the field. It's exciting that I can also spread my wings in all directions. One day I could be creating kids’ toys and the next day I could be working on a life-changing medical device.

I think by helping show the world that there's more to plastics than environmental harm, and that there are ways to change that. One goal I have is to be able to make processes energy efficient and to help limit the footprint that plastic processing has.

I would tell them to really come to this college! Any professor, regardless of the major, truly wants the best for every student, and their end goal is to see us succeed. Also, the fact that the job placement after graduation is so high, is such a relieving feeling. I also appreciate that in your first couple of days, you’ll already be creating and making things. Another thing I would point out is the fact that since it is a smaller college, you get to know a lot of people. I've already been able to meet some of my best friends here!

I think one of the coolest things I've learned so far here is to step out of my comfort zone. In labs, my professors always push us to step to the front of the line and not be scared to run the machines or be the leader. I have been able to do all of these things and so much more just with a little push from my professors and even my classmates. Also, just learning all of the different processes and creating fun things in the lab (keychains, snowmen, bottles, etc.)

I worked as a Plastics Engineer intern at a company located in Clemmons, NC called Hayward. They are the leading manufacturer of pool equipment and products (pumps, filters, cleaners, etc.). I had the opportunity to work in a production facility which I have never done before. This role allowed me to gain knowledge and advance my design skills, automation, injection molding, 3D printing, and so much more. The whole experience was impactful! I worked with many different individuals, as well as connected with other interns with different backgrounds. The internship program had weekly meetings with different executives throughout the company. This was so inspiring because of the fact that we got to hear from individuals who were in our spot at one point and how hard they worked to move up and get to where they are now.

Don't be afraid to explore your options. This was my second summer moving away from home and I loved every second of it. It allowed me to gain industry experience and explore a new area of the country! It is also important to apply no matter what because any interview experience is good experience even if it isn't a position that you're in love with. I think it is important to take risks and try new things and see new areas, so that when I graduate I have a better feel for where I may want to end up.

Penn College has helped me design the career of my dreams by giving me the opportunity to work with amazing staff and equipment. It is always a great feeling when you speak with industry professionals, and they praise our college and our graduates. We truly learn so much, and having the hands-on experience is a gamechanger in industry. I am thankful for all who have invested in my Penn College experience - for pushing me to get outside my comfort zone and explore and for believing in me inside and outside the classroom.