I would make sure he does well in his classes this year. I would also make sure he begs his teachers to allow him to take as many AP classes as possible next year. I would consider Education or Agriculture as a major. DUS is no longer an easy way in.
I would apply only for Summer. I think OOS helps a lot in my opinion. I’m the optimist. A 3.3 from an OOS private is enough for Summer. Every time I hear of a lower stat person getting in, they are from OOS.
Sorry with such a late response. But they are just under 2 years apart.
I don’t expect they will be together “all of the time” but they truly are best friends. They talk everyday about how they “can’t wait” for his brother to be there. My younger son has gone to PSU over the summer with my PSU student and got to hang out with him and his friends all weekend and they all have older siblings who go to Penn state or did. They are also very independent from each other in their own ways but just really enjoy each other. I have no weird ideas about them “dating sisters” or anything like that. Younger son just loves Penn state. Loves the campus and the vibe and it’s his number 1 school right now.
Yes. We are absolutely discussing other options. But also trying to give this is a shot
Maybe that’s my way of expressing how much he wants to go to Penn state. It’s not just about the brother. But since he visited there over summer and explored the campus etc it’s become a huge draw.
All he can do is be the best him. They don’t care about ECs - so make sure he focuses on academics. I would not over stretch though. Too many take on rigor they can’t handle.
He’ll apply and see - and there will be lots of others if PSU don’t work out. To me, Va Tech is the most similar campus - but of course it’s a reach. But there will be others - budget and other things depending.
He’ll be fine - there’s more than one school for everyone - I’m pretty sure. I do get the brother thing - and that’s nice. Hopefully, if not during school, they might find jobs in the same area for the long term 
This major (below) is also considered relatively easy to get into. He’d need to add a solid minor in Business Fundamentals or Economics or IST or something of the kind though because it’s a bit “fluffy”(/not known for being serious and in depth so the minor would have to add heft.)
He should also look at choices in College of Education and College of Agriculture.
His best shot would be one of these + applying directly for LEAP (Summer).
At the same time careers are long, and he should study something appropriate to their desires. Can’t think of many employers who will pick a resume they deem not qualified based on a minor.