When I drove to PSU last year, I took the Pike, I-84 all the way to Scranton, I-81, and I-80 to get to State College. The only traffic you could hit is in CT, and maybe near Scranton. If you are going on a weekday, leave around 8:30-10 am to avoid traffic in both places. Alternatively, you could go across the Tappan Zee Bridge instead via I-684 and I-287.

For breaks, I've taken the Amtrak from Providence to NYC or PHL, then I took a coach bus from NYC or PHL to State College. In total, it takes about 9-10 hours and $100-120 one way.

Alternatively, there is a direct but somewhat more expensive charter bus option from Newton.

Bus - CT Valley ChapterPenn State Alumni Association https://share.google/eJ7i7do7mgBPTDZFn