Pen Sormani Chang '23
BS Chemistry, BS Mathematics
Pronouns: he/him
On his major:
My mother and grandfather both became professors of Mathematics and I thought I would
follow in their footsteps. But, while pursuing a degree in mathematics at Stony Brook,
I realized that chemistry is actually way cooler. So I decided to do both.
Greatest Achievement:
The Origami Club at SBU has done a lot over the past two years and I am proud to have
been its founding Treasurer. Working with the e-board to make events, securing a budget
for the club, and teaching members of the Stony Brook community to fold origami has
been a life-changing experience. We recently completed our biggest project so far,
Cranes for a Cause, in which we collaborated with 14 other clubs and organizations
to fold 2,000 cranes for an art installation in the Wang Center. We even won 2023
Program of the Year at the Student Life Awards for this endeavor. It’s been amazing
to see it finally completed and on display and see people respond so positively to
it.
Awards & Accolades:
Sei Sujishi Award (2020) - Department of Chemistry Award for Excellence in Classroom
and Laboratory
Dean’s List (2019-2023)
Presidential Scholarship recipient (2019-2023)
NY ACS Student Award for Excellence in the Chemical Sciences (2023)
Graduating Summa Cum Laude with Honors in Chemistry (2023)
Plans for post-graduation:
I will be pursuing a PhD in Chemistry at Yale University starting this Fall!
Advice for potential Seawolves:
Explore campus! There are so many cool little paths through the woods to explore.
There are at least three makeshift lean-tos in the woods throughout campus, a little
bridge crossing a stream near West Side Dining, and more. The Avalon Nature Preserve
is also nearby (hint: there’s a shortcut to get there through the woods by the West
Apartments).