Major: Anthropology and History
Hometown: Princeton, West Virginia
How did you choose your major?
I always wanted to travel when I was younger and I love archaeology. I saw that WVU
had an anthropology program and I thought it was the best choice.
How would you explain your major to a new WVU student? What advice would you give
them?
The best way I can describe anthropology is that it is mainly focused on human culture.
Whether it’s looking at the past or languages, anything that concerns human culture
is an important part of anthropology. The advice I would give them is to get to
know your professors because they can make a huge difference in your college experience.
How has your major prepared you for your future career?
Anthropology has prepared me for my future career already as a sophomore. The department
here is smaller compared to other majors at WVU and that makes networking easier.
Because of the close relationships I have formed, I was able to become the Vice
President of Anthropology Club and the Lab Coordinator for the archaeology lab.
How have you changed since your first year at WVU?
I think my confidence has improved greatly since last year. I got more familiar with
Morgantown and believed in myself when it came to classes.
What was your most memorable moment at WVU?
My most memorable moment at WVU is when we won against Virginia Tech at the football
game this year. It was so hot, but it was worth seeing Virginia Tech lose!
What was the hardest (Eberly College) class that you loved? Why?
I think Classics 231 with Veronica Evans was the hardest class that I loved because
the tests forced you to know everything about Greek and Roman culture. I think
it’s the class that I learned the most from because of her talent as a great lecturer.
What do you want others to know about you that is not on your resume?
Something that’s not in my resume that I want others to know is I am a first generation
student. I think this is important to know because I’m walking into college blind
without my parent’s guidance because they didn’t experience college.
What makes you feel connected to WVU?
The professors make me feel connected to WVU. My professors don’t view me as their
student, but a person of the community and they have provided opportunities for
me such as the archaeology lab and becoming a student recruiter.
What have been your keys to success?
I honestly try to keep a positive attitude and look towards the better things in
life. Time management is everything when it comes to being a successful college
student.
What does it mean to be a Mountaineer?
To me, a mountaineer means someone who forges a path for himself or people later
in the future. As a first generation student, I relate heavily to this because
I was able to forge a path that I have never seen my family do.
Why would you recommend WVU to a family member or friend?
I would recommend WVU to any of my friends or family because of the awesome experience
I had here. From classes to going to football games, WVU has done nothing but show
me a good time. The longer I stay here, the more WVU feels like home.
Do you have a favorite professor or instructor? What makes them special?
I actually have two. Dr. Donaldson and Dr. Jones are my favorite professors here
at WVU. Both of them welcomed me with open arms the moment I met them and they
did everything in their power to connect me to the right resources. They both have
put an incredible amount of effort into helping me prepare for graduate school
and just being a person to rely on. Because of all their help, I couldn’t choose
just one.
What was your reaction when you found out you were an Eberly Scholar? How has this
opportunity made a difference in your life?
When I found out that I was an Eberly Scholar, I just prayed and thanked God for
the blessing I received. I remember I was having a tough week and that one email
made the whole week worth it. It lets me know that my hard work doesn’t go unnoticed
and it’s a great feeling to be recognized.
About Eberly Scholars
In association with the ongoing generosity of the Eberly
family, the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences Advisory Board established the Eberly
Scholars program in 1988. Each year, up to 25 students majoring in the arts
and sciences are designated as Eberly Scholars. They are provided with scholarship
support in recognition of their outstanding academic achievement. This award is the
Eberly College’s most prestigious scholarship honor for undergraduate students.
