Iyana Burrows, a third-year student majoring in psychology and minoring in human development and family studies, turned her college journey into a mission of connection and growth, embracing student leadership across several campus organizations at Penn State.

As a first-generation college student from Philadelphia, Burrows did not know what to expect when she came to the University but knew it was where she wanted to be due to the countless opportunities and resources it provides.

“Just knowing that there is a place where you can go or person you can talk to that will be able to help you figure out those things along the way is very, very helpful,” Burrows said. “I feel like Penn State is that place; there’s always someone or somewhere you can go to figure out the answers you’re trying to get for anything on any topic.”

Over time, Burrows has found her purpose and passion in building spaces where students feel seen, supported and empowered.

On campus, she serves as president of the Students’ Restorative Justice Initiative, social media chair for Mindfulness and the Science of Happiness (MASH), and event planner for the Liberal Arts First-Generation Committee. In these positions she has created inclusive spaces for conversations and community building.