Major: Biology

Graduation Date: May 4, 2024

As Jessica Gore prepares to graduate on May 4, she reflects on her time as a student at Penn State Brandywine and the unique experiences she had.

“Back home in Trinidad, schools never really pushed the SATs or coming to the United States for college because most students stay in the Caribbean to study," Gore said. "I did know a few people from Trinidad who studied at Penn State and thought the school looked really nice."

Gore said she also was really attracted to Brandywine because she could be studying abroad for school while being close to family who live nearby.

“One of my aunts lives close by in Philadelphia, so when I chose a Commonwealth Campus to attend, I chose Brandywine so I would be close to family. I was originally going to do the 2+2 program and transition to University Park, but Brandywine was so welcoming; it felt like home. I didn’t want to leave, so I stayed here all four years.”

During her time at Brandywine, Gore was very involved on campus. She joined the Multicultural Club, Nittany Christian Fellowship, Pre-Med Club, National Society for Leadership and Success, and Brandywine Benefitting THON. She was also a resident assistant for two years, serves as a teacher’s assistant for two organic chemistry courses and is part of the women’s tennis team. Most notably, she was president of the Student Government Association (SGA) for two consecutive terms.

“Joining all of these clubs as a first-year student helped me become more familiar with the faces I see around campus and utilize my time more wisely. Instead of staying in my room and doing nothing during the pandemic, I wanted to be more active, so I got involved,” she said. “Being involved allowed me to be a part of the Chancellor’s Commissions, speak closely with faculty and staff and understand what they do here and how we can help each other.”

Gore notes that one of her greatest accomplishments during her time at Brandywine was fulfilling the different objectives she had as SGA president, which included the campus garden expansion and the prayer and meditation space in the Tomezsko Classroom Building.

“When I ran for president the first time, I had a list of objectives that I wanted to complete during my tenure,” she said, “and being able to fulfill those things made me realize that I can do whatever I put my mind to. It was great seeing my thoughts and visions come to life.”

When reflecting on her favorite memory from her time at Brandywine, raising funds for THON came to mind.

“Last year, Brandywine Benefitting THON raised $3,700, so with our goal being almost five times that this year, it was hard to wrap our heads around as a group,” she said.

“During the send-off, when we saw how much we raised, it was really surreal because all our hard work paid off. It wasn’t an easy time at all, but it was all worth it. Everyone was so emotional and so happy when we met our goal because of how hard we all worked to get there. We ended up raising over $20,000 this year. It was one of the greatest memories ever.”

After graduating in May, Gore plans to move to New York City to live with extended family and prepare for medical school. She also plans on working in different health and medical device companies while preparing to further her education.

Being so involved on campus, Gore’s most valuable lesson she learned during her time at Brandywine was to make time for networking opportunities on campus.

“Whether you talk with faculty, staff or even alumni, networking with people on campus can really help you in the long run. For me, I think I definitely utilized that through my position in SGA,” she said. “For students who are looking to get their foot in the door, talk with your professors because they could help you in the long run, whether it’s with letters of recommendation or connections that could lead to a job or internship.”

When advising future Brandywine students, Gore emphasized the importance of getting involved.

“Being involved in so many clubs not only helped me excel in academics but also made me realize after these past four years that it also sets you up for the world of work,” she said. “Get involved, whether it’s out of enjoyment or it’s related to your major. It will definitely help you in the long run.”