David Marcial

What student organizations and activities are you involved in?

I am a member of EMS Student Council, Campus Weather Service, the Penn State Branch of the American Meteorological Society, Chi Epsilon Pi (a meteorology honors society), and Project Haiti. As a member of EMS StuCo, I helped organize last year’s EMEX, which is a weekend in the spring where accepted students come to see all Penn State EMS has to offer. I am also involved in undergraduate research and have a summer internship with the National Weather Service.  Both projects focus on enhancing predictability of wildfires in the western U.S.

What is the one Penn State activity that everyone should participate in, and why?

Regardless of your love (or not) for sports, everyone should attend football games in the fall.  They truly showcase how fun and unified the Penn State student body can be. Many of my best memories at college so far have come from tailgates and football games.

Why did you decide to attend Penn State?

There are several factors that influenced my decision to attend Penn State. First, the Penn State meteorology department is often regarded as one of the best in the world. Second, I am from Pennsylvania, so the ability to pay in-state tuition was enticing. I realized I would be foolish not to go to Penn State given my interests and the academic prestige of the university. Third, I was accepted into the honors college, which provides additional financial support and incredible opportunities. Lastly, I heard from other Penn State alumni how amazing their college experiences were, and how much the university sets up its students for success.

What’s the best part about being an EMS student?

EMS is a smaller college within a very large university, so as an EMS student, you can reap the benefits of both. As you advance in your degree, your classes get smaller, allowing for a more focused learning environment. You will get to a point where you are familiar and friendly with other students in all your classes and extracurriculars, which is definitely not the case for some other programs of study at Penn State. You might even get to know your professors quite well, and research opportunities abound. On the other hand, you are still free to join any other activity or club at Penn State. I would suggest trying to find a balance between EMS and non-EMS activities, although you have a tremendous amount of freedom to suit whatever makes you comfortable.

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

Get involved from the minute you arrive. Getting involved is how you make friends, have an impact on the community and world, and create your best memories.