First-generation student builds community through storytelling

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Kyla Pritchett is a fourth–year Penn State student double majoring in psychology and media studies. A Philadelphia native and first-generation student, Pritchett didn’t know exactly what to expect from her college experience, but she quickly found her footing by getting involved, finding community and discovering how her passions could help others feel seen.

“Being a first-generation student, I wasn’t sure how I’d navigate everything,” Pritchett said. “But getting involved on campus helped me find a support system and a purpose.”

Pritchett is active in a wide range of organizations, including “Culture Central,” Movin’ On and the Penn State Music Group. She also is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists and the National Association of Black Accountants, two communities that provide connection and guidance as she explores the intersection of identity, storytelling and representation.

“It is really necessary to have culture and an intersectional lens when approaching certain topics or telling stories,” she said. “You never know how you might connect with someone — or what you might learn — just by showing up as your full self.”

Pritchett brings that mindset to her role as director of music and audio for “Culture Central,” a student-led television talk show that highlights the experiences of students of color at Penn State. Produced in the Bellisario Media Center and partnered with The Lion 90.7 FM, “Culture Central” fosters collaboration and celebration among students from different backgrounds. Pritchett manages the audio control board for each segment and curates music that reflects the diversity of student experiences.

“The whole point is to showcase that our music — and our stories — are really diverse,” she said. “We’re helping people see there’s not just one way to express who we are.”

That same passion fuels her work with Movin’ On, Penn State’s annual end-of-year music festival. As the Battle coordinator and hospitality chair, Pritchett helped organize a “battle of the bands”-style event in March, creating space for a wide range of musical voices and styles.

“Media and music can connect people in ways we don’t always realize,” she said. “A lyric or a melody can make someone feel understood, even if their experience is totally different from yours.”

Although she began her Penn State journey majoring in biology, Pritchett found her academic home in the College of the Liberal Arts after meeting with Megan Schrock, an academic adviser for the Department of Psychology. That meeting opened the door to a new path — and to the support system she had been searching for.

“She really helped me see that there were options that aligned more with who I am and what I want to do,” Pritchett said. “That conversation changed everything.”

Pritchett eventually declared a double major in psychology and media studies — two fields she sees as deeply intertwined. Studying psychology helps her understand the motivations behind media choices, while media studies equips her to create content that uplifts rather than harms.

“I think both of my majors give me perspective,” she said. “I want to create media that actually helps people, that affirms them and reflects their realities.”

Through encouragement from Schrock, Pritchett began visiting the Liberal Arts Chaiken Center for Student Success, where she connected with director Patty Klug. The connection led to her becoming a Chaiken Scholar, a recognition that came with financial support, mentorship and a deeper sense of belonging in the college.

“Being a Chaiken Scholar has given me the privilege to know I have a network I can rely on,” she said. “It has also given me the support I need to focus on academic and professional ventures during my undergraduate journey at Penn State.”

Wanting to give back, Pritchett became a peer adviser in the college’s Office of Academic Advising. In this role, she helps other students who may be navigating the same uncertainty she once felt.

“I’m really glad I reached out to the College of the Liberal Arts because I still would have been scared to reach out for help,” Pritchett said. “The first conversation gave me the encouragement I needed to believe I belonged in college and in professional spaces.”

Looking ahead, Pritchett plans to attend law school and pursue a career in entertainment law, where she can play a role in helping others find the same sense of belonging she found through media.

“Together, my majors have shaped my goal of helping people access the content and resources they need to feel seen, supported and connected,” she said. “That’s the kind of impact I want to make.”