Dean's Letter - Fall 2026
Dear Friends of the College,
I am delighted to welcome you to the fall 2026 edition of the Science Journal. This issue highlights one of the most impactful aspects of an Eberly College of Science education: the opportunities that allow students to move beyond learning science to doing science.
Some of the most transformative moments in a student’s education happen outside the classroom. Whether conducting research alongside faculty, completing an internship, studying abroad, engaging with communities or developing leadership skills through co-curricular activities, these experiences help students connect what they learn to real-world challenges and discover the many ways science makes a difference in people’s lives.
We know that these experiences matter. Nearly 86 percent of our 2026 graduates report participating in at least one experiential learning opportunity during their time in Eberly. Through these opportunities, students deepen their scientific knowledge while building critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for success in graduate school, the workforce, and their communities. While many of our graduates pursue careers directly related to their field of study, others apply their scientific training in law, business, government, health care, education, and countless other professions. Experiential learning helps students see those possibilities and build the skills to thrive wherever their paths lead.
Research is one of the most powerful examples of experiential learning. As a college of science, it would be wonderful if every student had the opportunity to contribute to the creation of new knowledge. While not every student will pursue a research career, engaging in research cultivates curiosity, resilience, analytical thinking, and confidence. It also connects students to a broader scientific community of faculty, graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, alumni, and peers who help shape their future paths.
Creating these opportunities at scale requires intentional investment and innovation. Through programs such as our Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE), Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE), internships, field experiences, and immersive domestic and international programs connected to coursework, we strive to ensure that all students can access meaningful, high-impact learning opportunities regardless of their background, interests, or career aspirations. These opportunities may take students to a research laboratory or greenhouse on campus, to community partners in Philadelphia through our Health Equity Leadership Program, to industry leaders in New York City through our B.S./M.B.A. program, or to destinations around the world.
The stories in this issue illustrate the remarkable breadth of these opportunities. You will meet students conducting cutting-edge research, applying scientific knowledge to community challenges, exploring career paths, and developing skills and confidence to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
None of this would be possible without the partnership of our alumni and friends. Through networking opportunities, experiential learning placements, mentorship, philanthropy, and advocacy, you help create the conditions that allow our students to grow, discover their passions, and maximize their impact. Your support extends far beyond campus, shaping the scientists, healthcare professionals, educators, entrepreneurs, and leaders who will tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
As you read this issue, I hope that you will see both the extraordinary talent of our students and the collective effort that helps them succeed. Thank you for your continued partnership with the Eberly College of Science and all you do to advance our mission.
Kind regards,
Tracy Langkilde
Verne M. Willaman Dean
Penn State Eberly College of Science