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Millersville University student Willow Kint, a sophomore meteorology major from Thurmont, Md., is among the 128 undergraduate students across the nation chosen by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to receive Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarships.
Hollings scholars receive a two-year academic scholarship (up to $9,500 per year) for their junior and senior years, a 10-week paid summer internship opportunity at a NOAA facility and funding to participate in up to two national scientific conferences.
She learned of the scholarship opportunity from Dr. Ellie Cassas, assistant professor of meteorology. “Willow is a highly committed student who is very driven to succeed,” says Cassas. “She is a joy to have in class, and she always goes above and beyond. I can’t wait to see how she continues to grow.”
The internship between the first and second years of the award provides the scholars with hands-on, practical experience in NOAA-related science, research, technology, policy, management and education activities. Awards also include travel funds to attend a mandatory NOAA Scholarship Program orientation and the annual Science & Education Symposium, scientific conferences where students present their research, and a housing subsidy for scholars who do not reside at home during the summer internship.
“What really stood out to me about this opportunity was not only the financial support for both my junior and senior years, but also the internship experience that comes with it next summer,” says Kint. “The idea of having the opportunity to intern at one of the NOAA facilities across the nation is very exciting to me.
“My dream career is to work for the National Weather Service, so applying to this scholarship felt like the perfect opportunity to get that firsthand experience and better understand what the job truly entails. Now, it looks like I may actually have the ability to do that next summer, which is amazing to think about.
“I’m also really excited about the opportunity to network with professionals and other students within my major, as well as people from different STEM fields. I think this experience will help me grow both professionally and personally, while also giving me the confidence to put myself out there more.”
Kint will attend orientation from June 2 to 4, 2026, and complete the internship during the summer of 2027.
