Samantha Kelly is a 2025 WISCIENCE STEM Public Service Fellow and a graduate student in environmental engineering. She previously attended the University of Denver, where she earned a BS in mathematics and environmental science with a music minor. Before beginning graduate school, she spent 1.5 years interning and working at Argonne National Laboratory. Outside of her work, she loves to sing, bake, try new restaurants, and travel.
What has been your favorite part of this program so far?
My favorite part of the program so far has been getting to know cohort members from other disciplines that I would otherwise have little to no connection with. I feel like I am expanding my campus community by connecting with other graduate students in this program.
What are you looking forward to doing in this program?
I am looking forward to beginning my practicum project in the fall. I am excited to take all the strategies I’ve learned over the past two semesters and apply them to a real-world STEM public service scenario.
What are some of your career goals and how do you think this program will help you achieve them?
A career goal of mine is to work in or closely with government organizations. This program will provide training and an introduction to working in the sphere of government.
What is one of the most valuable things you have learned as a Fellow?
I learned so many insights about how STEM professionals fit into the world of public service, and how the community views STEM as a whole. I learned that STEM professionals sometimes view the world very differently compared to those not in STEM, and it is important to consistently be working to bridge that gap.
What is something surprising or unexpected that you’ve experienced as a Fellow?
I wasn’t expecting to be so invested in the other pathways of PSF that I did not select (outside of science policy—community-engaged teaching and direct service). I learned that all three pathways are incredibly interconnected, and it is important to acknowledge all three to find success in any sort of public service.
What excites you about community engagement?
Community engagement excites me, as this is an opportunity to bridge the gap between science and the public. I believe that science will have a much farther-reaching impact if the community invests and contributes to scientific advancement.
Learn more about STEM Public Service Fellows.