Earth and Mineral Sciences Academy for Global Experience (EMSAGE)

What is EMSAGE?

The Earth and Mineral Sciences Academy for Global Experience, or EMSAGE, was formed in 2009 as a vehicle to foster our students’ global competence and to promote a spirit of integrity, service, and leadership. By comprehensively embracing these principles, students will develop into leaders in their chosen discipline, while possessing the breadth and maturity to extend their knowledge to the improvement of society as a whole.

Who is a member of EMSAGE?

All undergraduate students, enrolled in an EMS major, in good academic standing are Academicians in EMSAGE.

Academicians may achieve Laureate status through notable achievement in Scholarship, Experiential Learning and Global Literacy, and Service.

What are the Benefits of Graduating as an EMSAGE Laureate?

Students striving for Laureate status pursue activities and accomplishments that demonstrate breadth and depth in the areas of global awareness, professional and civic service, and leadership. Thus, Laureate graduates have compiled a resume that will provide a substantial competitive edge in the global economy upon graduation.

EMSAGE Laureates are formally recognized at commencement, are awarded a crystal Laureate memento and certificate, and are enshrined on the EMSAGE Laureate roster in the Ryan Family Student Center.

How do I become an EMSAGE Laureate?

Students seeking elevation to Laureate status must apply in their graduation semester (or spring, if they are summer graduates). 

Laureate status is reserved for those students who have demonstrated a substantially higher level of achievement than the majority of students at Penn State in Scholarship, Experiential Learning and Global Literacy, and Service.

Undergraduate students aspiring to Laureate status are encouraged to actively plan their academic and professional development.  They should set goals that are consistent with their interests, and develop a plan to achieve them!  Students should seek input from their faculty mentors and advisors. Applicants should keep a portfolio of their activities and accomplishments. 

How are Laureates selected?

The selection process is rigorous.  A minimum grade point average of 3.0 is required.
In addition, Laureate status is reserved for those students who have demonstrated significant accomplishment in three areas: Scholarship, Experiential Learning and Global Literacy, and Service.  Examples of achievement in each of these categories may include, but are not limited to (be creative!):

Scholarship:

1. Enrolled in an Integrated Undergraduate/Graduate degree program (IUG) in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences 
2. Enrolled in one or more minors or concurrent majors
3. Completion of one or more e-Education courses
4. Demonstrated proficiency in foreign language(s)
5. Dean’s list for 4 or more semesters
6. Recipient of a prominent scholarship award
   Example: Bunton-Waller, Udall, Goldwater, NSF, Truman, Rhodes, Marshall, Discovery Grant, etc.
7. Publication in peer-reviewed literature
8. Participation in the William Grundy Haven Paper Competition

Experiential Learning and Global Literacy:

1. Participation in International Internship and/or Study Abroad programs
2. Participation in Cooperative Education and/or Internship programs
3. Participation in a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program or equivalent
4. Participation in CAUSE projects or an EMS project with an international travel component
5. Participation in extended field studies
6. Research culminating in a publication or presentation at a professional forum
7. Unique life experiences
   Example: military service, Peace Corps, extensive international travel, etc.

Service:

1. Participation as a teaching assistant in EMS
2. Participation as a mentor in TOTEMS
3. Active participation in professional societies
4. Educational outreach
   Example: mentor in SEEMS, ASM Camp, WISE Camp, Campus Weather Service, Weather Camp, school visitations, EMEX, EMS Museum Docent, etc.
5. Participation and service to University organizations
   Example: EMS Student Council, Interest House, IFC/Panhellenic Council, UPUA, Faculty Senate, FISE, etc.
6. Participation in local, state, or federal government
   Example: Congressional Fellow, voter registration, etc.
7. Civic and volunteer service
   Example: Habitat for Humanity, Food Bank, Big Brother/Sister, Red Cross Blood Drive, Meals on Wheels, etc.

Please note that achieving Laureate status will require accomplishments in a minimum of nine activities that demonstrate balance across each of these categories.

So, how do I apply?

Students wishing to be considered for Laureate status must apply no later than NOON on March 2, 2012 for consideration for SP12 commencement by completing the web-based application form.  EMSAGE APPLICATION FORM

The selection committee will inform all applicants of their status no later than four weeks prior to commencement.