Botstiber Scholars Program: Botstiber Foundation Hosts the 2019 Scholars Conference

The Botstiber Foundation hosted their annual Botstiber Scholars Conference at Pocono Manor in Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania. These conferences serve as a relaxed and educational way for the scholars to continue bonding as a group, as they get to know the Foundation, plus explore the Poconos. The historic Pocono Manor, established in 1901, is located north of Philadelphia, surrounded by 3000 wooded acres.

During the retreat, the scholars from the senior cohorts gave presentations to share their summer experiences interning in various countries in Africa during a luncheon with the Botstiber Board of Advisors. The junior cohorts presented their professional e-portfolios. One student, Faith Shipapa, even made a short documentary that included an interview with Penn State’s Sponsored Relations Manager and demonstrated the opportunities the Botstiber Scholars Program has given her. The sophomore cohorts presented on their market/industry research and shared their experience interviewing professionals in their prospective fields.

After the presentations, scholars and attendees bonded together and enjoyed exploring Pocono Manor, playing arcade games, swimming in the indoor pool, and roasted s’mores at the outdoor bonfire. The Botstiber retreat was a memorable opportunity for the students to catch up from the summer, and also learn from each other’s experiences.