Penn State University's coursework was very helpful in learning how to better communicate, in both writing and in speaking to small and large groups. My coursework covering Pennsylvania's unique history and political culture has also proved invaluable to me. In the public policy courses that I teach, I try to emphasize to my students the American Studies model that, in understanding our political culture, we have to look beyond the simple statistics in order to understand why Pennsylvania is so unique.
David G. Argall ,State Senator (R-29th District)
Since receiving my degree in American Studies at Penn State Harrisburg, I have worked as administrator for the Mosaic Multicultural & Diversity Center and as an adjunct instructor for international studies at Central Connecticut State University. I am currently the grants administrator for the Greater Hartford Arts Council, which serves 34 towns and cities and over 150 organizations. I was recently a fellow at the National Association of Latino Arts & Cultures (NALAC) Leadership Institute and continue to work as a scholar through my adjunct work and participation in conferences. My degree has been invaluable in allowing me to pursue a career path that creates cultural and diversity-based positive change in the community I serve.
José R. Feliciano,Director of Grant Programs,Chamber Music America
I am Professor of Information and Media at Doshisha Women’s College in Kyoto, Japan. After receiving the M.A. in American Studies at Penn State Harrisburg, I received my Ph.D. in Language and Culture at Osaka University, where one of my instructors happened to be Dr. Bronner of Penn State’s program teaching there on a Fulbright grant. Working on the educational foundation of folk and popular culture I gained at Penn State Harrisburg, I have written books and articles on consumer culture, media, and holidays. The American Studies Program at Penn State Harrisburg was as an ideal setting for international students. I especially appreciated the individual attention, guidance, and encouragement that professors provided.
Eri Sekiguchi,Professor of Information and Media,Doshisha Women's College
