Hiba Moussa
Major/Grad Year: Psychology, B.A. 2014
About Hiba:
Where are you currently living and working?
I live in Allentown, Pa and work at Penn State Lehigh Valley.
What is your current role and what do you love most about it?
I am an admissions counselor and I love empowering future generations to achieve their goals.
Can you share a brief overview of your career journey since graduation?
I began my journey at Penn State Lehigh Valley in a part-time dual role within Student Affairs and Admissions. Within just six months, I transitioned that opportunity into a full-time position as an Admissions Counselor. Over the past ten years, I’ve continued to grow within the university, taking on responsibilities that reflect both my passion for student success and my commitment to access and equity in higher education. My experience includes recruiting both international students and student-athletes, and I’ve proudly served on numerous campus-wide committees, including the Commencement Committee, where I now serve as one of the tri-chairs. In addition to my admissions work, I serve as an academic coach, supporting the retention and success of student-athletes. As a bilingual professional fluent in both Arabic and English, I’ve been able to build meaningful relationships with the Middle Eastern population in the Lehigh Valley. My language skills have allowed me to connect with students and families in a culturally responsive way, helping to bridge gaps in communication and better support their transition into higher education. I’ve also had the privilege of working closely with hundreds of first-generation college students and have played a key role in multicultural recruitment efforts, including organizing and participating in trips to University Park in partnership with the Multicultural Recruitment Team. One of the highlights of my service is my recent nomination to the University Staff Advisory Council (USAC), where I represent Penn State Lehigh Valley at the university-wide level.
Looking Back:
What is one of your favorite memories from your time at Penn State Lehigh Valley?
Serving as a New Student Orientation (NSO) Leader allowed me to connect with incoming students and help ease their transition to college by addressing their concerns and reducing their anxiety about college
Were there any professors, courses, or experiences that had a lasting impact on you?
I completed my internship at Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley, where I underwent 50 hours of intensive training to support victims of domestic violence. It was an eye-opening and deeply meaningful experience that gave me a greater understanding of the challenges survivors—and their children—face.
Advice and Insight:
What advice would you give to current students or recent grads?
Your degree is the foundation, but your connections build the path to success.
How do you stay connected to the school or fellow alumni?
I am a staff member at Penn State Lehigh Valley. I try my best to support all the events.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your professional life that you think more people should know?
Growth begins where comfort ends. Trust your skills and take the leap. Your potential is greater than your fear. Step into the challenge and discover what you're capable of.
Fun Facts about Hiba:
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I am fluent in Arabic (can read and write)
Favorite book, podcast, show or hobby right now?
Friends