University Park, Pa. -- When one thinks of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), disciplines that come to mind are usually the "traditional sciences"—engineering, physics and mathematics, for instance. Rarely does one associate the institution with the more social concentrations of the sciences. Penn State student Elisabeth Donaldson (junior, biobehavioral health), however, researched and found this connection, bridging her interests in the public health with NASA. As a result of her astuteness in perceiving this connection, Donaldson was chosen as one of two recipients of the Sylvia Stein Space Grant Memorial Scholarship.
The scholarship, awarded annually to two Penn State students for their intent to pursue a career in NASA, is named in honor of the late Sylvia Stein, former director of the Pennsylvania Space Grant Consortium. The Space Grant Consortium promotes further research and training of space-related studies and encourages underrepresented groups' pursuit of careers in the field.
When Donaldson first learned of the scholarship, she was very impressed with the exposure it would give and thus sought information linking her future in public health and NASA exploration so that she could qualify for the scholarship. She was able to do this very easily.
In February 2002, NASA's Earth Science Enterprise (ESE) launched "Healthy Planet." As Donaldson explains, the program "integrates environmental and public health research to further investigate the relationship between chronic and infectious diseases and the environment." Based on the research of "Healthy Planet," NASA's space apparatus is utilized to collect data tracking the spread of infectious diseases. Various health promotion agencies and organizations can then utilize the data for their causes.
A native of Hollidaysburg, Pa., Donaldson has always had a passion for the sciences. Though neither of her parents works in a science-related field, she has long been intrigued by the sciences and their impact on society. And so, when applying to universities, Donaldson sought a course of study that would allow her to combine her love of the sciences with the satisfaction she receives from working with people. Penn State's Biobehavioral Health (BBH) program proved a great match and has allowed her to explore both fields.
Donaldson has shown herself to be a scholar both inside and outside of the classroom. A Schreyer Honors Scholar, Betsy has maintained an exemplary academic record and is an active member of many projects and organizations. On campus, she is greatly involved in the AIDS/HIV Risk Reduction Council. The council, which operates jointly with University Health Services, has run several successful public health campaigns on campus. As evaluation chairperson, Donaldson assists the organization in targeting the student population by promoting safer lifestyles and health practices.
She has also been involved in other public health initiatives locally, including the Blair County Teen Pregnancy Prevention Team and Child Advocates of Blair County. In addition, Donaldson is active in the Student Red Cross Club, the ballet club and the cello choir on campus.
Later in the fall semester, as part of her fellowship, she will commit several hours to mentoring younger students in hopes of fostering their interests in the sciences. Ideally, Donaldson would like to work with high school students. She has a special interest in letting students who are entering higher education know that they do not have to choose between studying the sciences or disciplines concerning more "people-related" areas of study. As her award of the Space Grant Scholarship and her career thus far have proved, it is possible to combine subject areas and ultimately pursue a career that addresses one's interests.
After graduation, Donaldson would like to continue to impact the global community with her involvement in public health. "I just want to make a positive impact on people's lives," she says. "I see so many people out there living unhealthy lifestyles and just need help."