Pinnacle Scholar Profile: Sara Wolf ’25

Sara Wolf ’25 wasn’t sure where she wanted to go to college, but she knew she wanted to branch out from her home state of California and that the East Coast was calling. “I was accepted to a couple schools in the New York City area, and I knew I was going to take this incredible opportunity to live here. A scholarship was one of the deciding factors in my choice to attend Stevens, and it was absolutely the right choice for me.”

Wolf, a 4/5 chemical engineering major who will complete her master’s in engineering management next year through Stevens’ Accelerated Master’s Program (AMP), is a member of the Pinnacle Scholars Program, a prestigious program for undergraduates offering a summer stipend up to $5,000 for three summers to participate in research or study abroad; an annual cultural passport for cultural events; individualized mentoring; access to special honors seminars; and access to AMP.

“First-year applicants wishing to be in the Pinnacle Scholars program can indicate their interest during the application process. To further demonstrate their commitment, applicants are required to submit an additional essay articulating their passion for the program. In addition to the holistic review for admission to Stevens, we are looking for applicants who demonstrate a strong passion for innovation, leadership potential and a commitment to making a meaningful impact within their field,” April Chang, Stevens’ dean of undergraduate admissions and Pre-College Programs, said. “The essay provides a platform for students to express these qualities more fully. It also allows students to express their interest in participating in research and/or study abroad, which are key program benefits.”

As Pinnacle Scholar who now serves as a peer advisor, Wolf is eager to share her experience.

How did you use your Pinnacle summer stipends?

I used each of my three summer stipends in a different way.

During my first summer, from first to second year, I did an international research program at the University of Liverpool, working on a biomedical engineering project. I loved living in England and the university offered so many free activities for us — trips to Wales, Oxford and adventures to other parts of the country. I made great friends from Canada, learned a lot about The Beatles and went to a Harry Styles concert in Manchester. It was incredible.

The following summer, I stayed at Stevens and worked on a research project with Professor Ann Murphy in the Stevens School of Business where I collected data on activism within the boards of directors at S&P1500 companies.

This project actually inspired me to get a master’s in the business realm, so now I hope to go into project management within the engineering field and eventually into nonprofit work.

Finally, during winter break, I spent two and half weeks in Florence for a study abroad winter program, taking a cultural introduction to Italy class. The experience was amazing — I explored stunning art and architecture, went on lots of hikes and even connected with friends who were also traveling in Europe.

Did you take advantage of any other Pinnacle Scholar benefits?

Pinnacle stands out for its unique mentorship access. From day one, you’re paired with a peer who’s walked a similar academic path and can help you navigate everything from course selection to scheduling.

Beyond academics, I love theatre, so I went to every single Broadway show Pinnacle offered my first year. I’ve been to concerts, taken cooking classes and gone on the annual dinner cruises. My first year, I went by myself but ended up making friends, and now I have photos showing our progression from year to year.

What do you do as a Pinnacle peer advisor?

I try to foster relationships among the Pinnacles and help them get the lay of the land. Stevens has a ton of resources — but when you first get here, like any new experience, it can be a little overwhelming. I try to be a liaison and support person and help them navigate whatever they need. Having another student to lean on can be helpful with the adjustment to campus life.

What is your best advice for those who want to be Pinnacle Scholars?

Brag about yourself! Be proud of your accomplishments and share them with the university.

What is your best advice for incoming students?

Get involved and try as many things as possible. It’s much easier to quit something you don’t enjoy than to live with the regret of not trying.