Sofia Sarracino

What would be your dream job and how did EMS put you closer to this goal?

I would love to work for a business or institution like Penn State in a sustainability position or work in policy to aid local climate action planning initiatives. EMS has enabled me to participate in multiple study abroad experiences, research opportunities, and organizations related to sustainability that have allowed me to engage with communities and design sustainability initiatives. 

What made you choose your major?

I chose the Earth Science major because it allowed me to explore my favorite areas of study simultaneously, bringing in courses from geoscience, meteorology, geography, marine science, and even astronomy. Since this program also has an embedded minor, I’ve had the opportunity to further my interests in geography, marine science, and sustainability by adding multiple minors, which I wouldn’t have been able to do with a more rigid major. 

What student organizations and activities are you involved in?

Aside from EMS Ambassadors, I am also part of the Student Sustainability Advisory Council, an EMSAGE practitioner, a member of the Penn State Global Brigades WASH Team, a member of the Food Recovery Network, an Arboretum volunteer, a Schreyer Honors Scholar, and a Sustainability Scholar. 

What is the best class you’ve taken at Penn State and why?

The best class I’ve taken at Penn State was an embedded study abroad course with the GREEN Program in Belize on Sustainable Action for Coastal Communities and Ocean Conservation. We read engaging books about the climate change and indigenous knowledge during the semester and were able to participate in so many unique experiences in Belize. We had the privilege of learning from the Belizean Women’s Seaweed Farmers Association and helped them plant seaweed as well as conduct a biodiversity census on one of their plots. I also had the chance to snorkel and repel down a waterfall for the first time with other students on the trip, both of which were awesome experiences! For the course’s capstone project, I worked with other students to create a non-profit capable of diverting Belize’s plastic from the oceans and turning it into materials to be distributed to local artisans throughout the community of Placencia. It was one of the best experiences I’ve had at Penn State! 

What is one piece of advice you would give to prospective students?

Penn State can feel incredibly overwhelming as an incoming student, but the College of EMS and the programs it makes available for students are great places to build communities that make the University feel much smaller. Penn State has so much to offer and getting involved in just one thing can make all the difference.