Academics

Political science major selected as liberal arts student marshal

Next fall, Stem plans to attend law school in pursuit of a career in public policy. Credit: Stephen GiacobeAll Rights Reserved.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Anthony Stem will represent the College of the Liberal Arts as the student marshal at the commencement ceremony on Dec. 21. Stem is a member of the Schreyer Honors College and is graduating with a bachelor of arts degree in political science and minors in music as well as labor studies and employment relations.

Stem has participated in multiple internships. In the Penn State Office of Government and Community Relations, he worked directly under University Vice President Zack Moore to analyze policy regarding higher education. At the conclusion of the internship, Stem presented his research findings to President Eric Barron. A highlight of Stem’s college experience was an internship he completed at the White House, where he had the opportunity to work for the National Economic Council as part of the White House Internship Program. In this role, Stem served as a research assistant for both infrastructure and healthcare policy.

Regarding his experience, Stem said, “It was a privilege to work in this historic space while learning about policymaking from our nation’s leaders. This was an invaluable learning experience and honor for me as an aspiring policymaker.”

During his time at Penn State, Stem was also involved in many different organizations. He served as the recruitment chair and as a section leader in the Penn State Blue Band. In the Honors College, he is finishing a thesis that examines the impact of sub constituencies on roll call voting behavior. Stem has also served as both the director and as a representative in the University Park Undergraduate Association, commonly referred to as UPUA.

Regarding the opportunities Stem has had thus far, he explains that the College of the Liberal Arts has been essential.

“When I applied for internship positions, interviewers were always impressed by the breadth and depth of the education I received as a Penn State Liberal Arts student,” said Stem. “That, coupled with my extracurriculars, made me a strong candidate for many positions and opened countless doors. Once I embarked on internships, I connected with various Penn State Liberal Arts alumni who worked both inside and outside of government. The alumni helped to broaden my perspective in the field of public policy and enabled me to make the most of my internship experiences.”

Stem is an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America as well as an Evan Pugh scholar, an honor awarded to Penn State students in the top half percent of their respective class. Next fall, Stem plans to attend law school in pursuit of a career in public policy.           

To students in the College of the Liberal Arts, Stem shares the following advice: “Don’t be afraid to follow an untraditional path! There are limitless opportunities at Penn State. Take advantage of as many as you can!”

Last Updated December 12, 2019

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