Hanna Chop

What made you choose your major?

I changed my major to Environmental Systems Engineering from a different engineering discipline because I wanted to prepare for a career where I could have the option to work outside and do fieldwork. I also like the Environmental Systems Engineering program because it prepares you to work in many different industries and settings.

What student organizations and activities are you involved in?

I am President of the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences Student Council, Vice President of the SME chapter, and an Associate Director for EMS Connect.  I’ve also participated in Outdoor School, a program where Penn State students serve as counselors for fifth graders at a local camp program.

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

The best part about being an EME student is the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences. The College of EMS is one of the smaller colleges on campus and makes a university as large as Penn State feel like a close-knit community. EMS is very student-oriented and offers support like walk-in academic advising, career advising, engagement advising, free printing, and many other resources.   

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

Get involved! Getting involved is a great way to make friends, gain leadership skills, and explore opportunities beyond what you learn through coursework. 

What opportunities has Penn State provided for you so far?

Penn State provided me with grants to help cover travel and relocation expenses for my internships.  This, along with the advising and extracurricular support I have received through the College of EMS and the EME department, have allowed me to find what I am passionate about and make progress towards a career.

There are many opportunities in EME to explore a broad range of career options, including collaborative coursework, speaker events with alumni and industry leaders from different fields, and several major-specific professional societies.