Hard Freight is Penn State Altoona's literary arts magazine, combining the best student writing in nonfiction, fiction, and poetry, with stunning visual art. The magazine's name refers to Altoona's long history with the railroad industry and its culture. Hard Freight is edited and produced by Penn State Altoona students, and students may register for English 209 to receive credit for this experience. Interested in submitting your work, visit our submissions page.
Hard Freight Open Mic Café
In addition to our online magazine, an open mic Hard Freight Café is held once a semester. The event, which is open to the campus and community, provides students with an opportunity to showcase their writing, music, and other performances. Dates will be announced in advance.
Hard Freight Editor-in-Chief Aidan Pellegrino welcomes the crowd.
Student Rae Gallaher reads an original poem.
The event drew 60 students, faculty, staff, and members of the community.
Student Talon McKendree displays an original painting of the Penn State Altoona campus in the style of German Expressionism.
Liz Green performs the song "At Last."
Penn State Altoona Emeritus English professor Tom Liszka reads Edmund Spenser's Sonnet 54.
Student Josue Barahona-Rosales performs a song by Ed Sheeran.
Levi Custer performs a song on piano.
Student Kate Yoder, incoming Editor-in-Chief of Hard Freight, reads an original creative nonfiction essay.
Student Paige McCusker reads a poem by Mahmoud Darwish.
Student Emma Moniz reads an original poem.
Student Emera Gregor reads from an original short story.
Student Ishmael Bruney reads an original poem.
