Lucy Bickel Finds Confidence, Creativity, and Community Through Penn State’s ENTI Minor
Lucy Bickel says she has experienced a transformative journey through the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Minor (ENTI) minor. As a Lead Ambassador for the ENTI Minor and a Learning Assistant for ENGR 310 with Professor Frank Koe, Lucy’s role on campus exemplifies the leadership and entrepreneurial mindset the program strives to cultivate.
“The minor has allowed me to have the confidence to pursue creative and innovative ideas. Before taking classes in the minor, I was afraid that entrepreneurship would not be a safe path to pursue, but I’ve learned that pursuing my passion for entrepreneurship is extremely doable and can be extremely fulfilling both personally and professionally,” she says.
The minor has been a crucial part of Lucy’s academic and personal development, and she has applied its lessons to all aspects of her life. For Lucy, the entrepreneurial mindset isn’t just about starting a business—it’s about thinking creatively, tackling challenges head-on, and working with people who bring diverse skills to the table. Whether approaching tough classes with perseverance, devising innovative solutions, or collaborating with others, Lucy says she’s bringing these key principles of entrepreneurship to her daily life and carrying them into the future.
The minor has also set Lucy apart from her peers by enhancing her storytelling and analytical skills. “I’ve been able to learn that it’s not numbers people connect with; it’s a human connection, so this minor has been so helpful in teaching me how to craft a story people will follow and support,” she explains.
As she’s learned how to craft narratives that resonate with others, she says she’s not only a better communicator but also a more impactful leader. These skills have allowed her to engage with people on a deeper level, whether in person or over digital platforms like Zoom.
Lucy’s journey has not been about founding a company, but rather about embracing an entrepreneurial approach to her future career and everyday challenges. “I’ve been able to learn how to be confident, innovative, and creative in my everyday life,” she shares. These invaluable qualities, she believes, will carry her through any career path she chooses.
To those unfamiliar with the minor, Lucy has a clear message: “It’s the best minor on campus! It’s not just about gaining confidence or learning real-world skills; it’s about becoming part of a community that pushes students to innovate, think outside the box, and work together. And, you get to take classes where you actually MAKE MONEY! What’s better than that?”
For Lucy, the experience has been a springboard for personal growth, giving her the tools to confidently pursue her future while staying grounded in the principles of innovation and collaboration.
