Many of our students at Penn State World Campus are strong leaders whose enthusiasm often motivates their peers to get involved in student organizations and activities. We are excited to spotlight some of these excellent student leaders.
Conette Burney is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in integrated social sciences at World Campus. She has served as the chair of the Student Parent Affinity Group at World Campus and is also a member of the World Campus Psychology Club.
What has being involved as a student leader at World Campus meant to you?
“As Henry Ford once said: ‘One of the greatest discoveries a person can make is realizing they can do what they once feared they couldn’t.’ As a student-parent and leader at World Campus, I have learned to show kindness to myself while balancing family responsibilities, full-time work, and club activities, all while maintaining a satisfactory GPA. This journey has ignited a strength and self-mastery within me that I once feared I couldn’t achieve. The unwavering support from our amazing World Campus faculty, administrators, and students has been essential to my family’s total well-being.”
If you could go back and tell yourself one thing when starting your college career, what would it be?
“My colorful life has taught me that we often pursue careers and other goals to attain specific experiences, such as increased freedom, greater independence, financial prosperity, improved health, or social status. Understanding this, I would lovingly advise my younger self to prioritize the life experiences I truly desire. This would help me avoid living a life shaped by others’ expectations, which may not align with my true purpose or well-being.”
What skills or lessons have you gained from being involved that might be useful in the future?
“Being involved in student clubs and groups has deepened my appreciation for the diverse cultures and perspectives among the students and staff at World Campus. These experiences have fostered safe spaces where I have been able to address biases and other limiting beliefs that I had previously been conditioned to accept and maintain. As a result, my cooperation and collaboration skills have improved, all while allowing me to maintain my identity.”
Any other advice you would like to share?
“I encourage all students and leaders to keep making peace with where you are and be kind to yourself. Then go out and shake up the world!”
Related resources:
- Student organizations — check out the variety of organizations World Campus students can join
- How to form a student organization — if you have an idea for a new student organization, learn about the process for getting it started
