What exactly is PSUBAMS?

The Pennsylvania State University Branch of the American Meteorological Society and Chapter of the National Weather Association (PSUBAMS(CNWA)) provides meteorology students at Penn State informative and beneficial opportunities to gain knowledge of the meteorological community. To highlight the various aspects of meteorology, PSUBAMS takes advantage of speakers and events associated with areas such as private industry, government, academia, broadcast and communication, and weather risk management. PSUBAMS speakers provide realism and foresight to Penn State meteorology students striving to supplement classroom learning with real world advice.

PSUBAMS (“The ‘P’ is silent!”) is an official student chapter of both the AMS and NWA. This partnership with the two premier meteorological organizations allows us to work with them when organizing important events, most notably the AMS and NWA Conferences. In addition, our affiliations allow members many additional opportunities for scholarships and recruitment sessions. Around the department, PSUBAMS generally holds meetings a few times per month. We welcome in speakers from all across the meteorological community, including AccuWeather, the National Weather Service, local media, and many more. These meetings are a great place to come together with faculty, staff, and other students to learn from some of the brightest minds and biggest names in weather.

Of course, we like to have fun, too! In addition to lectures and strictly career driven meetings, PSUBAMS also serves to strengthen the connections between students in the department. Our meetings are very relaxed and always have a few surprises. Outside of the classroom, we organize several fundraisers, including our Penn State Meteorology merchandise. T-shirt design contests are held every year, and we also hold an annual photo contest. One of our favorite traditions is the AccuWeather tailgate, where we meet up with some of the staff of the State College AccuWeather office and enjoy some Penn State football! It’s a great way to meet people right at the start of the new year! We also strive to make a connection with the local community by hosting many service events, including school visits and tours of our own Joel N. Myers Weather Center. PSUBAMS hopes to continue to provide Penn State Meteorology students with enriching experiences for years to come.

 We are…Penn State Meteorology!

 

Written by Matt Mahalik, 2011-2012 President

Revised by Kristina Salvatore, 2018-2019 President