Name: Miranda Bitting, mib14@psu.edu
Undergrad Institution: University of Delaware
Undergrad Major: Meteorology & Climatology

Hello! I'm a second-year master's student working with Dr. Kelly Lombardo. My work involves exploring the climatological patterns and underlying mechanisms of convective precipitation in Europe using satellite, radar, and reanalysis data. I chose to come to Penn State because I enjoyed the idea of a large meteorology department with a wide variety of class options and research opportunities. Since I've joined the department, I've been able to take interesting classes outside my research area, get involved with the grad student organizations MASGO and SSWIM, and give presentations at two professional conferences. My advisor, professors, and fellow grad students have created a supportive and collaborative environment that has allowed me to thrive here. Being a native of the mid-Atlantic, State College was easy for me to adapt to, but I very much enjoy the greater availability of beautiful hiking trails in the area. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions about the department or life in State College!

Name:  Ana Bolivar, ajb8224@psu.edu
Undergrad Institution: Florida International University
Undergrad Major: Atmospheric Science

Hi! My name is Ana Bolivar. I am a second-year graduate student working with Dr. Colin Zarzycki on assessing model representation of landfalling tropical cyclones. I eventually plan to extend my research into future simulations and investigate changes in frequency, location and intensity of sequential landfall events. I chose to come to Penn State for many reasons, but chiefly because of the meteorology program's great reputation (although, coming from Miami, FL, I wanted to live in a place where I could actually experience all four seasons). Living through winter took some adjustment, but I love it here in State College: It's equal parts peaceful and bustling, there's lots of nature around, and you're not too far from several major cities if you want a change of pace. What makes this program truly special, however, are the amazing students, faculty, and administration who do everything in their power to help you succeed. I've gained so much confidence in my abilities since I started here last year. If you'd like to know more about life in State College, the grad student experience at Penn State, or just to chat, please don't hesitate to reach out!

Name: Luke LeBel, ljl5305@psu.edu
Undergrad Institution: University of Albany
Undergrad Major: Atmospheric Science

Hello! I’m a second-year graduate student, and I am working with Dr. Paul Markowski on a research project examining the factors controlling the formation of thunderstorms. I chose to attend Penn State for graduate school because of the excellent research opportunities with Dr. Markowski and in the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science as a whole. I have already had the chance to take interesting classes in a variety of topics, and am excited for new research and learning experiences in the coming semesters. It has been a pleasure getting to know the other graduate students, and I feel proud and comforted to be a part of the Penn State meteorology community. I have additionally really enjoyed living in State College, and have made frequent visits to the numerous beautiful hiking trails and parks in the area. I am excited to spend several more years in central Pennsylvania as I pursue my Ph.D.! I would be more than happy to help answer questions about what makes this community and program special. Feel free to reach out!

Name: Kyle Nardi, kmn182@psu.edu
Prior Institutions: Temple University (B.S.), Colorado State University (M.S.)
B.S./M.S. Major: Applied Mathematics / Atmospheric Science

I’m a Ph.D. student in Dr. Colin Zarzycki’s group and I study the prediction of extreme weather phenomena. Penn State was a top destination for me because of the department’s rich tradition of research in meteorology and atmospheric science. The department features a wide variety of research disciplines, so there are always opportunities to learn new things from a faculty that’s very open to engaging with students. Owing to the department’s long history, there’s also a large and accomplished alumni network that makes having a Penn State degree mean something to employers. Finally, State College is a beautiful town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, with opportunities for outdoor recreation, shopping, and nightlife.