Daniel Leao

With hands-on experience as a carpenter in the residential renovation industry, I’ve had the privilege of improving the homes and lives of older adults in a retirement community setting. My work focused on creating safe, comfortable, and personalized living environments by collaborating directly with residents to bring their vision to life. During my time in this role, I developed strong skills in independent work, project management, and client communication. I’m adept at measuring, cutting, and material selection, as well as operating and maintaining both power and hand tools. Working closely with elderly residents strengthened my ability to listen actively, adapt to individual needs, and provide exceptional customer service with patience and care. I take pride in my craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering high-quality results that make every home feel more functional and welcoming.

As a Learning Assistant for Math 26, I supported student learning by facilitating discussions, guiding problem-solving sessions, and reinforcing key mathematical concepts. I worked closely with the course instructor to develop engaging learning activities that promoted critical thinking and conceptual understanding.Through this experience, I strengthened my ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, foster a collaborative learning environment, and adapt my teaching approach to diverse student needs. I also honed my skills in active listening, patience, and mentorship while helping students build confidence in their mathematical abilities.

Beyond my professional experience, I was inducted into the National Honor Society for my academic excellence and community involvement. I’m also currently working with university administrators at Penn State to establish a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Club, where I plan to take on a leadership role once officially approved. These experiences have helped me grow as a leader, communicator, and community builder.

As a current Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical Engineering student at Penn State University, I am developing my problem-solving, design, and leadership abilities. My education aligns with my commitment to creating functional and innovative solutions, complementing my practical experience in precision-focused roles

• National Honor Society
• Deans list
• Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.

Outside of academics, I stay actively engaged in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, strength training, and outdoor activities, all of which reinforce discipline, resilience, and consistency. I am currently working toward establishing a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu club at Penn State in partnership with a national organization, with the goal of creating competitive opportunities across the country. This initiative involves leadership, coordination with external partners, and long-term planning, while fostering teamwork and personal development among members.

I am a member of the National Honor Society, a selective organization that recognizes students for excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Membership required maintaining a high academic standard while actively contributing to my school and community through service initiatives. Through NHS, I developed strong time-management, teamwork, and leadership skills while balancing academic responsibilities with meaningful community involvement.