Computer science student pursues passion for 3D printing through LaunchBox

MEDIA, Pa. — Hunter Becker, a third-year computer science major, reflects on his Penn State Brandywine experience so far and how his involvement has helped him succeed.

“I chose to attend Penn State Brandywine because it’s close to home, and my mom really liked the school. She really liked the idea of me going to Penn State without having to go to University Park,” he said. “I also transferred here from a nearby community college, and I liked the small campus and tight-knit feeling it had, and Brandywine has the same feeling.”

Becker has always known he wanted to major in computer science, as he’s always been fascinated by computers, robotics and coding.

“I really enjoy computers and coding; it’s one of my hobbies. Coding is also a very marketable skill that I knew I could turn into a career,” he said. “I figured with a computer science degree, I would be able to get a great job while also doing what I enjoy.”

Becker is involved with the Brandywine LaunchBox and the Entrepreneurship Club. He also has his own startup business that he founded with the help of the Brandywine LaunchBox called Kawi Prints LLC, a 3D-printed-goods company.

“I first heard about the Entrepreneurship Club and the LaunchBox at the involvement fair in the fall. I met with Tony Mattei, the director of entrepreneurship and digital marketing, and Tejas Chigurupati, a second-year student, and they told me about what they were and how they could benefit me,” he said.

“Given the multitude of hobbies I have with 3D printing, I figured I would start my own small business, and the LaunchBox has really helped me out with that. Tony helped me register my LLC with the Entrepreneurship Assistance Clinic. I would say he’s been my greatest support here at Brandywine because of his help with my company.”

Since getting involved with the Brandywine LaunchBox, Becker has been able to make 3D-printed keychains for Brandywine events. In the fall, he made keychains for the Donors Scholars Celebration, and he also made keychains for the LaunchBox to give out at various events.

Becker noted how he is looking forward to the opening of the LaunchBox Makerspace on campus in the near future, as he will be able to use its resources for his startup business. He also mentioned how his time with the Brandywine LaunchBox has benefited him greatly, as he’s able to see other people’s perspectives and collaborate with others.

“I enjoy getting to see people’s perspectives on how they run their businesses. I’ve absorbed so much from seeing how other people run their startups,” he said.

Becker said the most valuable lesson he’s learned during his time at Brandywine is the importance of taking initiative to get things you want.

“If you want something, it’s not going to come to you. You have to go for it,” he said. “For example, with my company, I put a lot of hours into the work I do, and I think having that drive has helped me immensely. You need to take initiative for the things you need and want.”