Five Questions
What would be your dream job and how did EMS put you closer to this goal?
Achieving the role of a litigation attorney within the Environmental Protection Agency would be the pinnacle of my career, and I believe the professional assistance, alumni connections, and highly customizable courseload offered by the College of EMS and Geography Department all work in favor of putting me closer to this goal.
What made you choose your major?
Taking AP Human Geog in high school, I think it’s fair to say it was love at first sight. Geography is the perfect blend of disciplines that encompasses all of my skills and interests, and it affords me to explore topics within the realm of environmental justice that can transition me into consulting, field, and legal work, rather than pigeonholing me into one decision.
What student organizations and activities are you involved in?
Lion Ambassadors, EMS Student Ambassadors, Empowering Women in Law, THON, & State of State.
What is the best class you’ve taken at Penn State and why?
Last Spring I took Geog 420Y—Comparative Urbanism with Dr. Rosenman. This class allowed me and my classmates to explore course topics based on our own interests, as it took an “ungraded” approach that advocated for student-professor course structuring, as opposed to one set syllabus. This really let me dive deep into topics of urban environmentalist issues that I’d otherwise have to look at in a prescribed rather than personalized way.
What is the one Penn State activity that everyone should participate in, and why?
THON! It’s incredibly fulfilling and so rewarding—whether you attend as a dancer, on a committee, or in the stands through an org, I cannot recommend supporting THON & its mission enough.
Why did you decide to attend Penn State?
The alumni network, hands down. I have been to many corners of the world, from New York, Berlin, Tokyo, and Bangkok, and in every city/country, I’ve always met at least one Penn Stater. But Penn State’s alumni network isn’t only far-reaching, it’s also supportive. I’ve had Penn Staters at internships and research programs welcomed me as their own, and I always know that I’ll forever have my Penn State family to rely on, no matter where life takes me.
What’s the best part about being an EMS student?
The community within the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences is unbeatable. Everyone is consistently looking out for one another, and never before have I been entrenched in classes filled to the brim with such selfless and passionate individuals. I feel inspired by my peers, as well as motivated to pursue my passions and excel in my field. (Also the library is superior!)
What is one piece of advice you would give to prospective students?
Take advantage of the resources around you. There is absolutely no shame in asking for help from your professors, advisors, and college counselors. These people are here for a reason—to watch you succeed!
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in college so far?
I’ve learned that, sometimes, asking for things head-on is the only way to achieve success. There might be several career, educational, and involvement opportunities that the university or one’s academic college might present, but it is on the individual to go out and actually pursue these things, to make the extra effort, and show up when others won’t, or to be upfront with intent. Coming into college, I’ve definitely had to learn how to be more straightforward with what I want, and I’m at a point now where I don’t balk to ask for things, whether it be help, a job position, or so forth.
What opportunities has Penn State provided for you so far?
Penn State has afforded me a wealth of opportunities in the short year-and-a-half span that I’ve been here for. Alongside long-lasting friendships, I’ve found professional opportunities through internships and research assistant programs, and affordable traveling opportunities that took me all over Thailand this past May.