In 2021, during a time when many students were navigating the uncertainty and isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Chiara Harris joined the very first cohort of the Readiness Institute’s Summer Discovery program. Now, four years later, Harris is graduating from Penn State with a bachelor’s degree in psychology—a milestone she describes as both emotional and empowering.
“To be frank, I didn’t have the best mental health,” Harris shared while reflecting on where she was when she first applied to Summer Discovery. “After dealing with COVID, virtual learning, and feeling disconnected from the little group of friends I had, I saw the program as an opportunity to have a purpose, meet others, and see what opportunities were out there for me.”
Originally from Pittsburgh, Harris said the program helped her begin to see new possibilities for herself and her future. After hearing about the opportunity during a Teams call with Emma Hance, senior program manager at the Readiness Institute, and Justin Aglio, executive director of the Readiness Institute, she signed up immediately.
Looking back, Harris says one of the biggest impacts came from the people she met through the program. “Emma and the instructors in my cohort really opened my eyes,” she said. “They helped me see that there are adults in those positions who care about more than just a paycheck. They took the time to get to know us, and it never felt forced.”
Summer Discovery also introduced Harris to different college campuses and learning environments, helping shape her decision to attend Penn State. A visit to Penn State Greater Allegheny stood out in particular. “It made me realize I didn’t have to be too far from home,” Harris said. “I saw how I could balance work, transportation, appointments, and everything else while earning my degree.” That sense of connection stayed with her long after the program ended.
“Something that’s definitely stayed with me is staying connected,” she said. “It was such a full-circle moment to be able to graduate alongside Fred Quinn, alumni network coordinator at the Readiness Institute, and it’s always amazing to receive emails from the program and know that I’m not forgotten.”
Years after participating in the inaugural cohort, Harris returned to the Readiness Institute as one of the first junior instructors, an experience she said allowed her to support students navigating many of the same questions she had once faced. “I wanted to come back and see what it would be like to be in that role years later after being part of the program when it first started,” she said. “I wanted to share my story and hear how future graduates felt about where they were in life and the steps they wanted to take to change their lives and others as well.”
As Harris prepares for graduation, she reflects on her journey with both pride and gratitude. As a first-generation college student who worked full-time while earning her degree, graduation represents much more than receiving a diploma. “After four long years, it definitely feels good to graduate,” she said. “I’ve dealt with a lot of things in my life that were out of my control, but being able to complete my education and reach this milestone is a blessing. I was able to accomplish something not many people have the opportunity to do.”
When asked what she would tell her 2021 self, Harris didn’t hesitate. “I would tell her to keep going and that she’s doing great,” she said. “Keep focusing on yourself and your goals while still supporting others in ways that are healthy for you.”
One of her proudest Penn State memories came during her first year, when she traveled to Seattle for spring break to support communities experiencing homelessness and poverty through a service experience. “I was able to use skills I learned years ago working at Moe’s Southwest Grill to help roll burritos for a dinner that fed people in need,” Harris said. “That experience really stuck with me.”
As she steps into her next chapter, Harris plans to continue building professional experience while exploring opportunities connected to her degree and background. Currently working as a floor supervisor at Vans, she says she’s excited for what’s ahead. “I’m excited to see what’s next and ready to focus on myself, my health, and enjoying my youth and time on this earth,” she said. “I hope to change lives and help those around me.”
For Harris, the Readiness Institute experience was more than a summer program—it became the beginning of an experience that helped shape who she is today. Her story reflects Penn State Outreach’s Commonwealth Commitment to prepare students by creating meaningful experiential learning opportunities that help students build professional knowledge, confidence, leadership skills, and real-world experience. From participating in the inaugural Summer Discovery cohort to returning as a junior instructor and graduating from Penn State as a first-generation college student, Harris’ experience highlights the impact of hands-on learning, mentorship, and programs designed to help students explore what’s possible for their future.