Another USF sophomore, Audrey Brandt, was selected this year for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship Program. Audrey is a marine biology major with a minor in anthropology at the USF St. Petersburg campus and is a member of the Judy Genshaft Honors College.
The Hollings Scholarship Program includes an academic scholarship and a 10-week, full-time paid summer internship at a NOAA facility. During their internship experience, which will take place in summer 2024, Audrey will also complete research under a NOAA mentor and be provided funding to present at national conferences.
Audrey grew up in Tampa, observing the natural environment from a young age. They were drawn to the marine biology program at USF, specifically at the St. Petersburg campus, and credit coursework at USF for introducing them to the importance of community engagement and education in the sciences, which are pillars of NOAA鈥檚 mission and work. Courses like 鈥淐ultural Anthropology鈥� and 鈥淣ational Parks: Ecotourism vs Sacred Space鈥� emphasized the importance of indigenous knowledge and history of place. To engage in science education, Audrey participated in the USF College of Marine Science Education Outreach program in summer 2022. They worked with young students from across the country, teaching them about climate impacts and local ecosystems. Audrey hopes to continue this engagement, as well as work with Dr. Teresa Greely鈥檚 Oceanography Camp for Girls this summer. Audrey has also worked as a research assistant with a graduate student studying nitrogen pollution levels in Southern Leopard Frogs. After graduating from USF, Audrey hopes to attend graduate school and do conservation research while also focusing on education.
Judy Genshaft Honors College Endowed Dean Dr. Charles Adams said, 鈥淲inning a Hollings Scholarship is a tremendous achievement that distinguishes Audrey as one of the most promising environmental researchers of their generation. I am grateful to the faculty and advisors in both the Office National Scholars and the Judy Genshaft Honors College office on the St. Petersburg campus for helping talented students like Audrey pursue these life-changing opportunities.鈥�
Read more about the Hollings Scholarship here, or email our advisors to schedule an appointment to discuss the application process.