As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 20 Penn Staters, including Jodi Vender, who have gone above and beyond what’s asked of them in their work at the University.
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As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 20 Penn Staters, including Jodi Vender, who have gone above and beyond what’s asked of them in their work at the University.
Yvette Richardson became the seventh in her field to earn the Nikolai Dotzek Award, the most prestigious prize in the severe weather research community.
Fifteen faculty members have joined IEE. Together, they bring expertise that connects energy systems, environmental processes and human dimensions, opening new pathways for collaboration and shared research efforts.
Penn State researchers have found that tidal freshwater marshes along the Delaware River may act as major traps for microplastics, capturing large amounts of plastic particles before they reach the ocean.
The College of Earth and Mineral Sciences has announced the appointment of two new members to the Graduates of Earth and Mineral Sciences (GEMS) board of directors, and four new members to the college’s Development Council.
The climate is changing and nowhere is it changing faster than at Earth’s poles. Researchers at Penn State have painted a comprehensive picture of the chemical processes taking place in the Arctic and found that there are multiple, separate interactions impacting the atmosphere.
Jingyi Hu has been selected to represent Penn State’s College of Earth and Mineral Sciences as the student marshal for the college’s fall 2025 commencement on Sunday, Dec. 21, in the Bryce Jordan Center on the University Park campus.
What would be your dream job and how did EMS put you closer to this goal?
My dream job is to work as a meteorologist for the National Weather Service, where I can help keep communities safe through accurate forecasting and communication. The College of EMS has brought me closer to that goal by giving me a strong foundation in meteorological science, opportunities for research and field experience, and connections with professionals who inspire and guide my career path.
What made you choose your major?
I chose my major because I’ve always been fascinated by the atmosphere and how it influences our daily lives. Growing up, I was captivated by extreme weather events and wanted to understand the science behind them. Studying meteorology allows me to combine my interests in physics, math, and climate to better predict and communicate weather impacts. Ultimately, I want to use that knowledge to help protect and prepare communities vulnerable to severe weather.
What student organizations and activities are you involved in?
I am involved in Campus Weather Service as a forecast shift leader. I am also Co-Chair of EMS Connect, which aims to help students from Commonwealth campuses get acclimated to the Penn State (and EMS) community. I am also involved in the Horn Studio at Penn State as Vice President. I have also been involved in THON through organizations and committees during my entire time at Penn State! I am also an EMSAGE Laureate.
Why did you decide to attend Penn State?
I decided to attend Penn State because of its strong academic reputation, especially in meteorology and atmospheric sciences. The supportive community, research opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences stood out to me from the start. I was also drawn to the school spirit and sense of belonging that comes with being part of the Penn State family.
What is one piece of advice you would give to prospective students?
My advice to prospective students is to get involved early and take advantage of every opportunity Penn State offers. Whether it’s joining clubs, conducting research, or connecting with professors, those experiences will help you find your passions, build confidence, and make the most of your time here.
What would be your dream job and how did EMS put you closer to this goal?
My dream job is to be a professor of climate science. EMS has put me closer to this goal by giving me the skillset necessary to make a difference in any sector of my choosing, and within academia, EMS has been the key to opening doors of connections that’ll be my next stepping stone in my professional journey.
What made you choose your major?
Nature is remarkable, and as a curious soul, I found myself infatuated with the world around me. Something about predicting the future, seeing the invisible, and having an impact on every living thing on our planet led me to being a member in the field of meteorology. Find something that becomes more interesting the more you learn, and you’ve got a life to be lived.
What student organizations and activities are you involved in?
I am the president of the Penn State Branch of the American Meteorological Society and Chapter of the National Weather Association. I am also a shift leader for a forecasting team in the Campus Weather Service, and an educator in the Weather Outreach and Education Club. I’ve also got a couple years of research experience, in addition to being a host, director, and graphics producer for the television show, "Weather World," housed here in the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science.
What is the best class you’ve taken at Penn State and why?
The best class I’m taking is the next class I’m taking, and I mean that as every class in the department seems to get better and better. Two of my most memorable classes have been METEO 201 with Dr. Jon Nese and METEO 486 with the Pennsylvania State Climatologist, Kyle Imhoff. METEO 201 is a wonderful course that stimulates every part of an aspiring meteorologist's brain; a true crash course. METEO 486 is a hands-on assistantship with the Pennsylvania Climate Office, where you learn how an operational climate office serves its residents, and this course was a great influence in realizing my current aspirations.
Why did you decide to attend Penn State?
Our Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science is a global brand. Google it, and we’ll come up quick. Opportunities abundant; if you have a dream, someone here can help you get to the next step, so long as you’re willing to take it. Our vast alumni network is a cherry on top. People will recognize you for your alma mater, and PSU Meteorology has a wonderful reputation beyond Happy Valley. Having Big Ten sports to cheer for on the weekends made it an even easier decision.
What would be your dream job and how did EMS put you closer to this goal?
My dream job is to work as a catastrophe modeling analyst, using data and modeling to help companies prepare for and recover from disasters. EMS has brought me closer to this goal by offering opportunities to connect with industry professionals and providing hands on experience with data analytics, GIS, and risk modeling.
What is the one Penn State activity that everyone should participate in, and why?
Everyone should participate in THON! Dancing in THON 2025 and being part of EMS THON has showed me the power of teamwork, community, and has truly humbled me. THON truly makes a difference and impacts the lives of so many families and kids facing cancer.
What’s the best part about being an EMS student?
The best part of being an EMS student is how it has allowed me to dive into my passions while also feeling supported throughout every step of the way.
Why did you decide to attend Penn State?
Being from State College, Penn State was basically a no-brainer. Growing up around the traditions, energy, and pride of Penn State made it an easy choice. It feels like home and offers incredible academic and extracurricular activities.
What is one piece of advice you would give to prospective students?
Try new things!! I joined so many clubs not knowing if I would enjoy them, and I have had some of the most amazing experience and connections through stepping out of my comfort zone and saying yes!