The place that makes me feel perfectly content is Penn State University. This is a very important place in my life and has impacted my life in a positive way. Penn State is and always will be my second home.
During my early childhood, my family learned of my diagnosis with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The doctors and nurses at Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital gave me the best possible care and more importantly saved my life. While going through treatment, my family and I were told about The Penn State Dance Marathon, more commonly known as THON. In February of 2002, we traveled to Penn State and attended our first THON. With me being only 4 years old, there was so much to take in. Every February since then, my family travels to Penn State for THON. The main thing experienced by me and my family at Penn State is THON, however we also enjoy going to PSU football games, tailgating, hanging, out with our adoptive organization and shopping downtown.
The atmosphere at Penn State is always so energetic and positive. Whenever we go there, it feels like home. By having cancer, the only positive thing about it is gaining so many big brothers and sisters that have become a part of my family. It always makes my day when we get to go to PSU to see them and hangout with them at various THON events throughout the year. This place is so meaningful to me because it is a place where I can be myself. Every February, my family and I can have a winter vacation to our home away from home.
Penn State University has been my second home for many years. By traveling there often, it has made my decision on choosing a college so much easier. Penn State has become my top choice to attend for a college education because it feels like home to me, and holds a special place in my heart.
I am beyond excited to say that in November I found out that I have been accepted to Penn State Harrisburg for the fall of 2016. It has been my dream ever since I was little to attend Penn State for college. At Penn State Harrisburg, I plan on majoring in Human Development/Family Studies and minoring in business. Being the Penn State girl that I am, it was the only college I applied to, and I could not see myself going anywhere but Penn State. After two years at Penn State Harrisburg, I will be transferring to University park to complete my final two years of college and I could not be more excited to go to college at my favorite place in the whole world! I am also excited to attend Penn State football games, hockey games and THON. I am looking forward to being involved in THON as a Penn State student and experience things from a different aspect. I absolutely cannot wait to spend the next 4 years at the greatest place in the world!
-Ashley Otstott