Editor's note: This story is part of a series profiling exceptional members of Penn State Schuylkill’s graduating class. For more stories like Sylla's, visit Schuylkill Speaks! The series is written by Renee Paetzell, a fourth-year Penn State Schuylkill student majoring in human resources with a minor in corporate communications.
SCHUYLKILL HAVEN, Pa. — Choosing to be a nurse means stepping into a field with endless opportunities for growth and purpose. For Mariam Sylla, the decision came naturally. She said she views nursing as a profession where each path leads to something new and meaningful — one that challenges you, changes you and allows for constant personal and professional development, all while staying true to your core values.
While Sylla was certain of her career path, the question remained: Where should she go to school? She wanted a close-knit campus with a smaller setting — a place where she could feel seen and supported. At Penn State Schuylkill, she found just that and more. The community in the Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing allowed her to build meaningful relationships with professors, peers and staff members.
“Being at Penn State Schuylkill has allowed me to grow, feel heard and be a part of something worthwhile, for which I am grateful,” Sylla shared.
One faculty member who had a lasting impact on her journey is Kimberly Quinn, an academic adviser at the campus. With Quinn’s guidance and encouragement, Sylla said she found the motivation to think beyond her immediate future and focus on long-term goals. Quinn helped Sylla navigate the challenges of the nursing program — including adding a minor — and provided consistent support along the way.
“She is one of the people I thank for graduating with a nursing degree,” Sylla said.
Although Sylla did not participate in a traditional internship, she gained invaluable experience through her capstone clinical. This hands-on experience allowed her to collaborate closely with a nurse mentor in a hospital emergency room, completing 12-hour shifts and applying everything she learned in real-life scenarios. The capstone helped her develop essential skills such as delegation, prioritization, and policy adherence, while her mentor taught her how to think quickly, educate others and confidently step into the role of a nurse.
Beyond academics, Sylla said that one of her greatest lessons came from stepping outside her comfort zone — taking on leadership responsibilities, meeting new people and facing challenges head-on. She also learned the value of asking for help, leaning on others and understanding that even setbacks carry valuable lessons.
As she prepares to graduate, Sylla reflected on what she will miss most about her time at Penn State Schuylkill: the sense of community and the deep connections she made.
“The people and memories are what made my time here truly unforgettable,” she said. “Random conversations with professors who genuinely care, the laughs we had, and friendships that turned into family — those are the moments I’ll carry with me.”
Q: What is your favorite Penn State Schuylkill memory?
Sylla: One of my favorite Penn State Schuylkill memories is being part of the Student Nurses’ Association events and fundraisers. Coming together with my peers to support important causes while having fun and interacting with the community was memorable. Those moments of teamwork, laughter and shared purpose reminded me of why I chose nursing and this campus.
Q: What clubs and activities do you participate in, and how did they impact your time on campus?
Sylla: I am a member of the Student Nurses’ Association of Penn State Schuylkill (SNAPSS), where I am secretary, and I’m also a part of the student nurse mentorship program. These clubs impacted on my college experience by allowing me to form strong, supportive relationships with other nursing students. We not only uplift each other through shared experiences, but we also work together on meaningful initiatives, such as fundraising. Participating in these activities has challenged me to venture outside of my comfort zone and network, which has led to personal and professional growth.
Q: As a Penn State Schuylkill graduate, what advice would you give to an incoming student?
Sylla: 1. My advice to an incoming student is not to be afraid to plant your roots in this community. Get involved, say yes to opportunities that challenge you, and take the time to develop relationships with others around you. This campus may be small, but it’s filled with big-hearted people who want to see you grow, succeed, and thrive.
2. Along the path, there will be setbacks, but don’t let them stop you. Keep going, keep showing up, and trust that every struggle will lead you into something greater. Make your college experience unforgettable.