Penn State news by
Penn State's student blog

Topics

More

Report: Happy Valley Freshmen Are…Happy

Apparently, Penn State freshmen are happy.

Out of all U.S. state schools, Penn State ranks 22nd in terms of freshman retention — the primary attribute measured in the U.S. Department of Education’s recent happiness report. Five of the top 25 schools are living the California dream, while another five represent the Big Ten (six if you include Maryland).

According to the data, 92.5 percent of freshmen stay at Penn State through their sophomore year (and likely beyond), compared to the national average of 72.2 percent.

Penn State’s presence on this list shouldn’t come as a surprise when you consider the magic of Happy Valley. In all seriousness, Penn State’s freshmen retention rate is a testament to the high quality culture, academics, student life, and opportunities Penn State has to offer (Maybe the robust bar scene plays a small role, too).

While a 92.5 percent retention is impressive, the most important finding on behalf of the Department of Education — Penn State’s freshmen are happier than freshmen at Pitt by a whopping 0.3 percent!

Your ad blocker is on.

Please choose an option below.

Sign up for our e-mail newsletter:
OR
Support quality journalism:
Purchase a Subscription!

About the Author

Michael DeGothseir

Advertising/PR major, Blue Band drummer, peanut butter enthusiast.

Noodle Connoisseur: Marie Moyer’s Senior Column

“A new perspective on growing up, the idea of noodling helped eased my fears of having to find my purpose at the ripe old age of 18.”

[Photo Story] Celebrating The Beauty Of Happy Valley On Earth Day

To celebrate Earth Day, let’s look at some of our favorite photos of nature in Happy Valley.

Vintage Vibes: Nittany Thrifts Closing Gap For Vintage Penn State Gear

From supplying students with vintage gear to styling Zach Bryan on stage, Nittany Thrifts is fashioning Penn Staters with all their vintage Penn State needs.

Follow on Another Platform
113kFollowers
164kFollowers
59.6kFollowers
4,570Subscribers
Other posts by Michael

10 Questions With Blue Band Drum Major Chris Siergiej

Meet Chris Siergiej, the newest Pennsylvania State University Marching Blue Band drum major. This past Saturday, Siergiej (pronounced SIR-gee) was chosen above nine other candidates to lead the Blue Band in 2013. Siergiej, who played saxophone in his first three years, is entering his fourth season with the Blue Band.

We caught up with Siergiej the day after his successful audition to find out how he prepared and what he’s excited for moving forward, among other things.

13 People You’ll Work With in Group Projects

Senior Column: Shapeless in the Hands of Fate