Stays for Science
As the scientific heart of Pennsylvania’s land-grant university, the Penn State Eberly College of Science drives world-renowned research, foundational STEM education, and interdisciplinary innovation.
Ninety percent of all University Park undergraduate students—whether pursuing a major in or outside of our college—engage with Eberly through core math and science courses, making the college a gateway to discovery. From students and faculty to alumni and staff, the Eberly community shares a commitment to advancing knowledge, shaping future leaders, and solving global challenges.
What does “Stay for SCIENCE” mean?
During a fall 2024 visit, longtime Penn State benefactors Jeanne Leslie-Hughes and Ginger and Steve Stalcup, family of Dorothy “Dottie” Foehr Huck and J. Lloyd Huck, shared with our Eberly leadership the importance of continuing to drive forward—both within our college and well beyond our campus—with a clear focus on academic excellence and the relentless pursuit of research. Steve pointed out that football has been one vehicle for attracting people to Penn State, saying, individuals can “come for football and stay for science.” Aha—what a phrase!
Their generosity has shaped our college and institution’s excellence in life science research, and this perspective on leveraging shared interests is no exception.
Penn State is a large, public institution with well-known athletics and well-known science. Whether drawn by the energy of Big Ten athletics or the pursuit of academic excellence, many find their lasting home in the sciences. “Stay for SCIENCE” celebrates that journey—where passion, purpose, and Penn State pride converge.
Meet biology student Erika
Fourth-year student Erika Kenst (pictured above and in the video at right) is a member of the Penn State Blue Band, where she spends her Saturdays in the fall on the football field, and a biology student, where she focuses on her passion for conservation. Last year, she participated in the Outdoor School program—run by Shaver's Creek Environmental Center, part of Stone Valley Forest, Penn State's experimental forest—which provides children with positive outdoor education experiences.
“Stay for SCIENCE” celebrates that journey—where passion, purpose, and Penn State pride converge.
Meet Eberly alumni Abby and Julianne
The student experience is just an early part of the life-long Penn State Eberly College of Science journey.
Our alumni live all over the world, but many also stay here and make an impact in Pennsylvania. Hear from a few about their Eberly experience and why they #StayForSCIENCE.
“The people and resources within Eberly pushed me to discover my passions and gave me the confidence to pursue them as a career. Without my experiences as a student, I would not be where I am today: working a job I love and living a life I never thought would be possible!”
Abby Han
Class of 2023, Science (B.S./M.B.A.)
Director of Operations and Player Care, Penn State Men's Soccer
“My scientific foundation shaped my journey from research professional to entrepreneur. Penn State’s ongoing support for alumni was instrumental in jump-starting my entrepreneurial path.”
Julianne Gardner
Class of 2013, Biology
Founder, Bottimals
Join us!
Join us in showing your pride for the Eberly College of Science.
We want to hear from you! As a member of the community, share your story and be entered to win a college-branded shirt. What drove you to pursue science at Penn State, and why do you #StayForSCIENCE?
Wear your pride on your sleeve!
Visit our Eberly Brand Shop to purchase your “Come for football. Stay for SCIENCE” gear and other college-branded items. Five dollars of the proceeds from the sale of each item will go to the college and help contribute to a student scholarship fund.
View more community videos
Visit our college YouTube channel or follow us on Instagram @PennStateScience to hear from more of our Eberly community.