HARRISBURG, PA — At Harrisburg University of Science & Technology (HU), students take center stage. Our Student Spotlight shines a light on the internships, career outcomes, published research, and other ways our learners are demonstrating their skills in science, business, technology, and more – and making an impact in Central Pennsylvania and beyond.
After beginning her college journey at an institution out of state, Huynh Nguyen ‘26 was searching for something different – something more connected, more hands-on, and more personal. When she transferred to HU, she found an environment that felt different from day one.
Now a Business Administration major concentrating in Business Analytics and preparing to graduate this fall, Huynh has embraced the close-knit academic community, hands-on curriculum, and mentorship that define the HU experience.
As she reflects on her time at HU, Nguyen shares how small class sizes, supportive professors, and real-world projects shaped her confidence and career path.
What inspired you to pursue Business Administration, and what drew you to Harrisburg University?
I have always been passionate about people management and the mechanics of business. However, I also love working with numbers and using data-driven insights to help a company improve, which is why specializing in Business Analytics felt like the perfect fit for me.
Before HU, I attended a college in another state, but HU brought a completely different energy. Even though it’s a smaller school, the connections are huge. The small class sizes mean I actually get to discuss ideas with my professors and classmates, which has opened my eyes to so many new things I never knew before, all while keeping tuition reasonable compared to other schools in central Pennsylvania.
When you look back on your time at HU so far, what stands out as a defining moment?
Definitely my semester working as a Student Ambassador in the Admissions office. It was the most “college life” experience I’ve ever had. It really helped me feel like a true “HU-er.” I honestly don’t think I’d feel as connected to the school if I hadn’t taken that job!
Is there a professor or class that helped you grow?
I have to give a huge shout-out to Dr. Joe Zagerman and Professor Angela Britcher. They’ve given me amazing advice for both my classes and my life. I also want to thank Dr. Philip Grim. When I was going through a tough time with my studies, all three of them gave me the opportunities I needed to finish my semester strong and even thought of me when internship opportunities came up.
How has HU prepared you for the professional world?
I love that this program lets us do hands-on projects in our final semesters instead of just taking traditional paper exams. It lets us “pretend” to be real businesspeople and solve real problems. Courses like MEBA 312 (Leadership & Organizational Behavior), MEBA 375 (Statistics for Managers), and GEND 325 (Consulting) have been huge influences on my interest in the field.
Where are you interning now, and what’s a typical day like?
I’m currently at Susquehanna Civil Inc. (SCI) as a Marketing & Business Development Intern. Every day is exciting! I check my “To-Do” list for priorities, help draft documents, update our LinkedIn and internal news, and manage project updates on our internal platforms. Wednesdays are my favorite because that’s usually when I learn something brand new.
What are you most proud of so far?
Since this is my very first professional office job, every skill I learn is valuable. Our company does a lot of work for PennDOT, and I’ve been able to help with organizational charts and proposals. My role might feel “tiny” to some, but I’m so proud that I could contribute to such important work.
What impact do you hope to make after graduation?
I’m excited to keep moving forward and work in business development to gain more experience.
What’s your best advice for other students?
Don’t hesitate to talk in class and ask for office hours with your professors. You can never know how it will shape you until you actually do it!
# # #
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science & Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, engineering, robotics, nursing, cybersecurity, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link learning and research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, Communications Manager for Harrisburg University of Science & Technology, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100×1724.
# # #
