Bethesda Native Selected for Penn State's Orientation Team

Annie Heffernan, a Bethesda native and junior at The Pennsylvania State University, is part of a select group of individuals serving on the school’s New Student Orientation (NSO) Team.

After completing a rigorous application process, Heffernan took a credit-bearing course and received 50 hours of training in preparation for the program.

As an orientation leader, Heffernan will help first-year students learn about academics, diversity and inclusion efforts, social life, and other key components that create the Penn State experience.

Heffernan will act as a vital and engaging bridge between the university and the incoming freshman class, said Katie Motycki, NSO assistant director.

“We look for students like Annie who want to make a difference at Penn State, who are diverse, dedicated, enthusiastic, resourceful and motivated,” Motycki said.

For 10 consecutive weeks this summer, Heffernan will be responsible for leading small groups of students in a variety of educational activities during the two-day sessions.

The NSO program is beneficial to orientation leaders, as they develop real-world leadership, teambuilding and communication skills.

For more information about New Student Orientation, visit orientation.psu.edu.