Prior to Arkansas
Helm spent the first two seasons of her collegiate career at the University of Arizona. In 2011, she saw action in 107 sets for the Wildcats and averaged 2.07 digs per set with nine service aces. Helm was also part of two NCAA Tournament appearances at Arizona. During her prep career at Hamilton High School in Chandler, Ariz., she was a four-time team MVP, selected as a first-team all-state performer and named to the all-conference team. Helm's first-team all-state recognition was the first in school history. She played club ball for Spiral Volleyball.

Personal
Born June 15, 1992, she is the daughter of Troy and Mollie Helm of Queen Creek, Ariz. Emily has an older brother, Matthew, who plays professional baseball in the Arizona Diamondbacks' system. While at Arkansas, Helm plans to study sports management.