Bryan Funk
Hometown:
Ashford, CT
Major:
English, writing option
Graduation Year:
2011
Why I chose PSU:
I chose PSU for, in my opinion, the most important factor in deciding on a school: my comfort level and drive for success. I loved the community aspect and comfort that came along with this beautiful New England school. The size of the University was also a major factor in my decision based on the 17:1 student to teacher ratio.
My life at PSU:
My college experience has been nothing short of amazing. Between having the mountains and lakes for skiing, hiking and swimming, I also love the educational aspect of the school. I have formed very strong relationships with my professors as well as my peers being a dedicated student and being strongly involved with student organizations.
What I do in Plymouth and at PSU:
I love the skiing aspect. Last season I skied over 65 days. I also like to hang out and catch up with people on campus and going downtown for some food. You will often find me in Admissions or the HUB. If I’m not there, you can be sure to find me tearing it up on Mario Kart Wii back at Langdon Woods.
Your favorite PSU experience:
The Rescue of Joseph Kony’s Child Soldiers: The student organization EGAW traveled to New York City to take part in a worldwide rally which took place in 100 cities around the globe. 100,000 people came out to the event where we met a handful of celebrities and helped raise the profile of the longest running war in Africa. The Rescue was one of the most life changing experiences I have ever had.
Which organizations do you belong to?
I founded and am president of the student organization Ending Genocide Around the World (EGAW) and I am involved in much more. I am an Orientation Leader, a part of PEEPS, went through the College of University Studies, helped start up the Cruise Directors, and am the Admissions Fellow.
What activities have been most valuable to you?
Working in Admissions has added a great amount of valuable skills needed for the work force. Ending Genocide Around the World is my most valuable activity. I am always working with highly motivated individuals and have taken part in once in a lifetime events.
In what ways does PSU foster involvement and the ability for you to build community?
Based off of the size of PSU, you are truly able to take the reins of your own interests and put them to action. You can join a student organization, or even create your own. I think that because the number of students, it gives you the opportunity to create more personal bonds with staff, administration, and your peers. This aspect of PSU makes it a very conventional place to bring the community together.
On-campus or off? Why?
I’ll have to vote on campus. I live in Langdon Woods, and the dorm is absolutely beautiful. I always like to be comfortable and live in a nice environment. It is also a nice social environment to live in. And in most cases, a lot of people move off campus, so there is also somewhere else to go to hang out.
Do you do any community service through the CSC or outdoor trips through the Outdoor Center?
I haven’t yet, but it is an opportunity I would like to take advantage of.
Do you visit the Fitness Center or do any Group Ex classes?
I always use the fitness center to run and lift. I’ve yet to do any group classes, but my friends do and they can’t get enough of them.
