Penelope Helm

As a double major in environmental science and political science, Penelope Helm knows the importance of combining research and communication skills to create change. She spent a semester interning at Science for Georgia, where she analyzed proposed bills with an environmental impact in the Georgia legislature and used current research to determine the scientific merit of the bills.

Scientific research is incredibly valuable, but Penelope notes it is often written by academics for academics meaning it can be confusing and inaccessible for laypeople. The knowledge gained from this research helps individuals, organizations, and governments make informed decisions, but only if it is communicated in a way that bridges the gap between knowledge and those who can apply it for the greater good.

“Protecting the environment is important to me,” says Penelope. “I consider good science communication crucial to this mission. The environment largely cannot advocate for itself.”

Penelope hopes that by adding business skills to her science background she will be able to have greater impact as she works toward a more sustainable future.

“An understanding of business fundamentals would allow me to expand the scope of my abilities, increase the depth of my skills, and diversify the opportunities available to me.”

“Individuals with a science background like mine will be needed to develop more sustainable business models. I want to take on this challenge and am interested in learning business fundamentals so I am better prepared.”