Deciding where to go to college is a big decision and you need to consider all your options to help you make the right choice. There are many reasons to choose Penn State's College of Earth and Mineral Sciences. We are a small college within a large research university. That combination means that you can enjoy small class sizes, get to know your faculty, participate in research, and still have a small college feel. We will help you identify and access opportunities across the university that will set you up for success. Read what our students have to say and imagine your future at Penn State.
EMS really does make a huge university feel smaller and easier to engage with, having a relatively small body of students and faculty where new students can figure out who's who in their department very quickly. In addition, EMS offers its own programs for student community-building, professional development, and learning about undergraduate research/studying abroad; all in-house and easy to access.
Ryan Zaff
Geosciences
The College of EMS is so full of great people that it makes for such a close-knit community of people who want to help you succeed. From the teachers to the staff, to the other students, there are tons of reliable and friendly faces that will help you make the most of your college education and experience!
Danielle Dedeaux
Geography
Students should choose EMS here at Penn State because there is a strong sense of community within all areas of the school. The classrooms, offices, and study spaces are all filled with people who are here to assist with your pathway to success here. There are hundreds of different ways you can get involved here, and the staff is here to support you on every step of that journey.
Landon Allmaras
Meteorology and Atmospheric Science
EMS is a two-for-one deal, you get all the benefits of a small school and a big university in one place.
Ava Blansfield
Geography
It has a small college feel within a big university, so you have easy access to professors and resources without sacrificing school spirit!
Sofia Sarracino
Earth Science
Attending a huge university like Penn State can feel overwhelming, but EMS has so many amazing people and resources to make sure you feel like a valued part of their inclusive community.
Irena Potochny
Materials Science and Engineering
We have so much support given to us in the college of EMS. All the professors are very outgoing and personable and are very willing to go above and beyond if you ask for help!
Sarah Munier
Meteorology and Atmospheric Science
The small-college feel is an experience I feel you really can’t get anywhere else besides EMS. Coming from smaller schools my whole life, it was comforting to know that the statement “you can always make a big school feel small” held true in such a welcoming and familial environment.
Brendan Schmalenberger
Meteorology and Atmospheric Science
The College of EMS has ample resources to help students succeed, clubs to meet others and learn more about the workforce, and so many alumni that love to connect with!
Julia Angerman
Meteorology and Atmospheric Science
The community and support from EMS is something that is completely unique to Penn State. From great advisors, fantastic tutoring hours, and strong and caring community, EMS is the best college at Penn State.
Mara Grigore
Earth Science and Policy
EMS is like a family. The community of students, faculty, and staff here will always be your #1 supporters, and are rooting for your success every step of the way.
Luke Snyder
Meteorology and Atmospheric Science
The number one reason to choose EMS is because of the combination of hands-on learning, small class sizes, research opportunities, and strong industry connections that help to prepare students to thrive in their field of study. EMS equips students to turn their passions and dreams into meaningful and impactful careers.
McKenna Burke
Meteorology and Atmospheric Science
Prospective students should choose EMS for their education because of the family-like atmosphere provided within the college and its extracurriculars. The benefit of being in EMS here at Penn State is that you get the best of both worlds: the big school with tons to see and do, but also the tight-knit community within EMS.
Elisabeth Ervin
Environmental Systems Engineering
EMS allows you to capitalize on small college opportunities in one of the largest universities in the country, teamed with a hall-of-fame alumni network.
Matthew Carlson
Meteorology and Atmospheric Science
Penn State is great for that “big school” energy outside of the classroom, but EMS has professors and support staff pride themselves on being approachable and attentive—making goal setting and achieving a lot more attainable at a big school.
Aaliyah Thompson
Environmental Systems Engineering
The number one reason someone should choose EMS is because it offers world-class research opportunities, hands-on learning, and a strong community that prepares students to tackle global challenges in energy, environment, and sustainability.
Zach Simms
Meteorology and Atmospheric Science
EMS opens doors you don’t even realize are there. Coming in as a transfer student with only two years to make my mark, I found the guidance and support I needed to use my time wisely. These two years have pushed me to grow, not just academically, but socially, through extracurriculars, and as a leader.
Miranda Quezada
Environmental Systems Engineering
Being a student in EMS opens you to a world of options and opportunities. For those passionate about sustainability and the environment, this is the perfect home for you.
Tsunami Sharmba
M.S. Energy and Mineral Engineering, B.S. Environmental Systems Engineering and Philosophy
The community of the academic college make EMS the best. Our relative small size makes every student feel like they belong and we’re always looking for ways to tie new students into our expansive network and welcoming environment. Everyone I know in the college is so friendly and actively advocates for my success!
Westin Boyd
Meteorology and Atmospheric Science