From the Department Head - Spring/Summer 2024

This spring, MatSE awarded forty-six bachelor of science degrees to a unique group of students—the class of 2024. These were our COVID-19 pandemic students, who missed traditional high school graduation ceremonies and began their college careers during one of the most uncertain times in recent history.

Today’s undergraduate students possess unique skills resulting from their experiences with blended in-person and online education. Many have refined their time management skills, adapted to learning and working in different formats, and have experience in collaborating virtually. From virtual learning platforms to AI-driven tools, they have navigated an ever-evolving digital landscape. These students are passionate about social justice, climate change, and inclusivity. Many have entrepreneurial ambitions, and their ability and drive to innovate set them apart. Mental health awareness has also been a priority to them, and their empathy and compassion stand out.

I am happy to report that we are seeing a resurgence in enrollment numbers post-Covid, with an approximate 25 percent increase in incoming undergraduate students each of the past three academic years. This increase in enrollment can be attributed to numerous efforts by our students, faculty, and staff to promote and educate others on the materials science and engineering major. As such, we have expanded our outreach activities for middle and high school students; hosted a “Major Exploration” event on campus to heighten the visibility of MatSE for students considering a change of major; and the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences’ strategic communications team recently produced a new MATSE recruitment video that I invite you to view here.

Another crucial aspect, not only for recruiting but also for retaining undergraduate students, is building a community beyond the classroom and lab space. We are grateful to a generous alumnus for establishing a fund this year that will support many of our annual department events. Their gift will ensure that we will continue to bring our MatSE family together for events such as the MatSE Welcome Back Picnic, MatSE Ice Cream Social, Undergraduate Hot Apple Cider Bar, Undergraduate Hot Chocolate Bar, and MatSE Appreciation Day.

We take great pride in our MatSE alumni, who are the best recruiters we have for MatSE and Penn State. Alumni should never underestimate the impact their personal stories can have on young individuals in helping them discover the field of materials science and engineering and Penn State University. Many of our students are relatives of alumni or cite the influence of a MatSE alum in their decision to pursue a MatSE major.

MatSE is honored to be a home for the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Our commitment to providing a robust and diverse education, coupled with world-class resources and a supportive community, empowers our undergraduate students to excel and make meaningful contributions to their fields and society at large. As we look ahead, we are excited to continue nurturing talent, fostering collaboration, and providing impactful undergraduate research opportunities that will shape a brighter future for all.

WE ARE!

Susan B. Sinnott
Professor and Head of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering