Ryan Twist

I learned about Penn College through a couple of friends from my high school. I was looking into other trade schools because I knew I wanted to do some form of trade, but I really wanted to play a sport in college too. Once my friend told me about this school, I instantly did some research and thought it would be the perfect fit for me. I emailed Coach Williams who responded very quickly; he arranged for me to attend an open house to visit the college.

The top three factors that led to my decision to attend Penn College were the majors that are offered, a competitive and talented lacrosse program, and the distance from my home. Penn College is approximately two hours from my home and is an easy drive, so my family can visit and watch my lacrosse games. 

I was definitely looking for a hands-on education. Like most of my friends, I enjoy taking things apart and seeing how to put them back together. I preferred classes in high school where I had the opportunity to work with my hands rather than sitting in class for lectures. After attending Penn College, automotive seemed to come easy to me. I feel like I learn better doing physical things, by taking objects apart and putting them back together, in order to learn how they work. 

I chose automotive because I've grown up riding ATVs and dirt bikes, and loved cars and trucks. I seem to have a passion for it and enjoy figuring out how they work. I have always wanted to get more into working on cars because I know there will always be job available in the automotive field, as everyone needs a good mechanic. I enjoy working with my hands and being able to fix things for people when they need it. 

I immediately loved the campus; it seems to be more compact than other campuses that I visited. The buildings seem to be close together, which makes it easier to get to class. I definitely have a large community on campus, especially from the lacrosse team. My fellow teammates are great people; they are welcoming to newcomers and are a great support to each other. I lost a close friend from home this past summer to suicide and his family created a lacrosse tournament this fall in his honor. Eighteen of my teammates traveled two hours to participate in the tournament to support me, as they did not know my friend. I truly have made lifelong friendships here that will carry me through my life. 

I love being a part of a team and I feel like it is a part of who I am. I have played several different sports throughout my entire life and I have always loved the sport, as well as the camaraderie. At Penn College, I have found fifty to sixty brothers who are always there for each other, whenever or wherever you may need them. We are a tight-knit group, which helps us on the field, as well as off the field. I am very thankful for this opportunity. 

In my free time, I enjoy working on or riding dirt bikes. I have also been buying, fixing, and selling dirt bikes for approximately six to seven years. It is a good way to make some money while I'm at school and not working, as well as gain more experience. I also enjoy lacrosse, ice hockey, and golf with my friends and family. 

I am not exactly sure to be completely honest. I work in a small automotive shop in my hometown during the summer and winter break and I also plan on working there after I graduate from Penn College. I would also like to explore becoming more involved with performance builds of different vehicles or building custom trucks and cars. I definitely know my dream job involves working with cars.

I would tell my high school friend that if he or she was interested in working with their hands, while also getting a great education and meeting great people, then Penn College is for them. I believe for the most part, every person who attends the school is extremely motivated and goal-oriented. I have told many people that coming to this school was the best decision I ever made, and I stand by that statement.