Student gains global perspective, leadership skills through Liberal Arts experiences

As president, Graaf oversaw a 292% increase in membership, recruited and trained more than 40 new Ambassadors, and helped the organization raise more than $8,000 for THON 2025, breaking all previous fundraising records. Under his leadership, the group also built new partnerships across the college and positioned itself as the most prominent liberal arts student organization on campus.

“Leading Ambassadors was transformational for me,” Graaf said. “We created a tight-knit community of motivated, well-rounded students who are passionate about their fields of study and about giving back to the college. It was the greatest learning experience of my life so far, and I’m proud to leave behind a legacy of growth, inclusion and excellence.”

Now, as he transitions back to being a general member of Ambassadors, Graaf is excited to mentor the next class of leaders.

“It’s rewarding to see new voices take charge and bring fresh ideas,” he said. “I’m looking forward to supporting the executive board and helping our organization continue to thrive.”

For Graaf, the heart of his Penn State story is the value of a liberal arts education itself.

“A liberal arts education gives you the tools to think critically, communicate clearly and adapt quickly,” he said. “The opportunities I’ve had like studying abroad in Egypt, interning in Washington, D.C., leading Ambassadors, have all been possible because of the College of the Liberal Arts. It’s allowed me to grow into a more thoughtful, driven and capable version of myself.”

He also credits the support of the Chapels and the Career Enrichment Network staff for making those opportunities a reality.

“The Chapels’ generosity and the Network’s guidance have been invaluable,” he said. “They provided not only financial support but also mentorship and encouragement at every step of my journey.”

Set to graduate in December, Graaf is already thinking about the next chapter. He hopes to work on political campaigns, applying the skills he gained at Targeted Victory to help candidates run effective, data-driven campaigns.

“Strong digital strategy, persuasive messaging, and the ability to meaningfully connect with voters are the skills redefining elections now,” he said. “And I want to be part of that future.”

To fellow students, his advice is simple — say yes.

“Take advantage of every opportunity, whether it be internships, clubs, coffee chats, leadership roles,” Graaf said. “College goes by faster than you think, and you don’t want to leave with regrets about what you didn’t do. Each experience shapes you in ways you can’t predict. Work hard, play harder and enjoy the ride.”