The EMS-GFSAD program is an initiative in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS) to formally support and expand the work of We Are For Science by supporting student leadership and establishing an administrative home in the college. WE ARE For Science (WAFS) aims to promote science in our College, Penn State, local community and at a national level by strengthening the lines of communication between research institutions, the public, and government, all while promoting a diverse and inclusive scientific community.
Fellows
The fellows oversee the activities of We Are For Science, serve on the EMS diversity council and the EMS ALLWE implementation committee, represent EMS and We Are For Science in the community, and work with EMS undergraduate and graduate organizations and individuals, faculty and staff, to advance science advocacy and diversity.
2021-22 Fellows:
Carl Aquino - Carl's background in finance, earth and atmospheric sciences, and risk management has given him a deep respect for the institutions that have brought us so much success but also a strong desire to help shape a society that leads with equity and sustainability. As an EMS scientist and a WAFS fellow, he seeks to develop the breadth of knowledge to connect across systems and the depth of expertise to help accomplish his mission. Above all, Carl's impact on the world boils down to his favorite piece of advice: "Honesty and integrity are all-or-nothing. If who you are matches what you say, your life will speak forcefully."
Jasmine Walker, PhD student, Geosciences - “I view the We Are For Science Fellowship as an opportunity to impact structural change in the university for students from underrepresented groups and as a way to integrate the views of scientists into policy by interfacing with leadership.”
2020-21 Fellows:
Jasmine Walker, PhD student, Geosciences - “I view the We Are For Science Fellowship as an opportunity to impact structural change in the university for students from underrepresented groups and as a way to integrate the views of scientists into policy by interfacing with leadership.”
Samantha Staskiewicz, Masters student, Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences - “From the moment I committed to Penn State, I knew that I wanted my experience as a graduate student to be about more than just taking classes and conducting research. I feel that expanding myself as a scientist should also be about being an ally to all identities of people, advocating for scientific representation in different areas of academia and industry, fostering a sense of inclusive community, and learning more about science policy and how decisions are made both within and outside the university.”
Sofia Johnson, PhD student, Geosciences. - “Growing up with such a global experience instilled a deep passion for understanding the complexities of creating an inclusive and diverse environment.”
2019-2020 Fellows:
Jasmine Walker, Masters student, Geosciences
Rachel Gutierrez, PhD student, Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences
About the Fellowship
Two fellows will be selected per year. They will be mentored and supervised in their EMS-GFSAD work by the associate dean for graduate education and research and the associate dean for educational equity. The selected fellows will:
- Work to advance the WAFS mission concerning science policy, science communication and outreach, and diversity and inclusion in science
- Serve as formal liaisons between WAFS and EMS administration
- Cultivate collaborations across the college and University in support of science advocacy and diversity
- Assist with enhancing broader impact activities
- Serve as a point of contact with college and surrounding community activities
- Work with the associate deans in goal setting, planning, and implementation of EMS institutional initiatives
Throughout their time of service, selected students must be enrolled graduate students registered for appropriate credit hours and receiving a base assistantship or fellowship of at least grade 12 half-time, and commensurate with that of other students in the program at their level. It will also require excellent time-management skills in order to fulfil the fellowship requirements, as well as the primary research or assistantship duties, while continuing to make adequate progress to degree.
How to Apply
Application materials should include the following:
- Statement of interest from the nominee
Statement should indicate:- Interest and vision for science outreach, policy, diversity, and inclusion
- Evidence of participation in activities in support of science outreach, policy, and inclusion
- How the nominee plans to balance their research, academics, and service as an EMS-GFSAD
- Adviser Concurrence Form
Form needs to be completed and submitted by graduate research adviser. - Two letters of recommendationThese may be from WAFS leadership, faculty members, or peers who can effectively speak to the nominee’s interest and ability to fulfil the fellowship. Graduate adviser may also provide a letter of recommendation, which would be in addition to the signed statement of concurrence form.
Note: committee may review additional materials to select fellows, including the annual performance review of the applicant.
Submit application materials
Selection Process
Nominations will be reviewed by a selection committee, which will forward recommendations to the dean of the college for approval.Committee members include:
- Associate Dean for Educational Equity
- Associate Dean for Graduate Education and Research
- Director of Engaged Scholarship
- WAFS leader or delegated representative
- EMS Graduate Council Adviser