As Khaleelah Hamm prepared to graduate on May 10, she reflected on her time at Penn State Brandywine and the unique experiences she had.
Major: Psychology
Graduation Date: May 10, 2025
MEDIA, Pa. – As Khaleelah Hamm prepared to graduate on May 10, she reflected on her time at Penn State Brandywine and the unique experiences she had.
“I came to Penn State Brandywine because it was close to home and because I really like the diversity of the campus,” Hamm said. “Being a student here, I really enjoyed the programs that were held here, both in academics and in student affairs.”
During her time at Brandywine, Hamm was very involved on campus. She was involved in the Black Student Union, where she served as president during her fourth year, and was the governmental chair of the Student Government Association. She was also a student worker in the chancellor’s suite.
“Being involved allowed me to meet great people who were able to help me along my journey,” she said. “It’s also helped me navigate how to put together programs and learn what students want to see.”
Hamm took advantage of a multitude of resources Brandywine had to offer, including the writing studio and the sensory room.
“In my earlier years, I went to the writing studio for a lot of my assignments, and I feel like it set me on the right course to do better on my work,” she said. “Recently, I’ve enjoyed going to the sensory room in the library because it helps me de-stress after a long day. It’s a very calming and quiet environment.”
She also commented on how being involved and doing well in coursework helped her succeed at Brandywine, including receiving a scholarship and connecting with alumni.
“I was a recipient of the Thomas E. Hare III Memorial Award in my fourth year at Brandywine. It helped me finish my college journey strong. I didn’t have to stress about paying for tuition,” she said.
“The Black Student Union’s Shades of Success event helped me meet a lot of really helpful alumni. I’m in constant communication with them. I feel like I’m more prepared to go into the real world because I made so many connections.”
Hamm said she is particularly proud of serving as a club leader.
“I feel like my greatest accomplishment during my time at Brandywine was being president of the Black Student Union because of the fact that I was able to take on a leadership role. I wasn’t too confident coming in, but I feel like I’ve learned so much that I could apply to other things in life,” she said.
Upon graduating from Penn State, Hamm wants to go back to school for her master’s and doctorate degrees. Her goal is to specialize in either social work or family therapy.
When reflecting on her favorite memory from her time at Brandywine, Hamm recalled Big B.E.A.S.T. Blow Out last academic year.
“I had such a great time at Big B.E.A.S.T. Blow Out last year. Although it was raining and cold, I still had so much fun with my friends. There were a lot of good food trucks, and I had a great time rock climbing, too. Overall, it was a really fun event,” she said.
Brandywine is very close-knit; we’re very close, and the faculty and staff are so helpful.—Khaleelah Hamm , class of 2025
When advising future Penn State students, Hamm said to make connections with everyone on campus.
“Brandywine is very close-knit; we’re very close, and the faculty and staff are so helpful,” she said. “If you have any questions, reach out to your professors or your adviser. They’re always willing to help you.”
