Celebrating Success: 2024 CAHS Graduate Profiles

The College of Applied Human Sciences will celebrate Commencement on Sunday, May 12, at 9 a.m. at the WVU Coliseum. Here is a look at several graduates from the College who will be earning their degree this weekend.

Adrianna Wood, with her major in sport and exercise psychology, found a supportive community and practical experiences that fueled her passion for human resources. Heather Bond, a graduate from the health and well-being program, combined her educational passion with her passion for aviation. Rachael Ratliff's path in elementary education was influenced by family and shaped by her practicum experience, while Kylie Coon is one of the first early childhood special education graduates and determined to make an impact. Cody Fisher's switch to physical education and kinesiology led him to find his place in teaching, embracing the opportunities that have prepared him for a fulfilling career.

Graduating students observe commencement, one students hat says "cue country roads"

Heather Bond

Major: Health and Well-Being (B.A.)
Hometown: Knoxville, Tenn.

Why did you choose WVU and the College of Applied Human Sciences?

My decision to pursue my education at WVU was heavily influenced by my family’s legacy here. Both of my parents graduated from WVU – my dad with his PhD and my mom with her master’s degree. I was born in Morgantown while my parents were pursuing their degrees before our family moved to Knoxville. Returning to Morgantown to come to WVU felt like coming home. This is where my parents laid the foundation for their careers, and I wanted to follow in their footsteps. CAHS offers many fantastic programs that align with my career goals. The combination of family ties, a sense of belonging, and exceptional opportunities for growth at WVU and within my program led me here.

Describe some of the obstacles you’ve overcome on your way to a college degree.

One of the most difficult challenges was relocating and moving seven hours away from family and friends in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. This transition took a toll on my mental health and my academic performance. I graduated from a small private school, so the culture shock of going to a large, state university during a period of quarantine and social distancing was challenging. In addition to this, I struggled with uncertainty about my future career path. However, with the support of the wonderful staff at WVU, I was able to navigate these challenges and find clarity and purpose in my academic journey. 

How did your program and the practical experience you gained during your time at WVU prepare you for your career?

My program did an amazing job of preparing me for my future career in many different ways. My practical experience also helped me learn what my interests are and what they are not. WVU provides many resources to its students to help us prepare for post-graduation and getting started in our careers whether it's by taking the career readiness class or scheduling appointments with career services, there is always someone willing to help. Along with this, the individuals and staff within my program were beyond helpful when it came to figuring out what post-graduation plans. With the help of WVU staff, I was able to find a career that consisted of a perfect blend of both my college degree and my hobby.

During the pandemic, my dad, who is a general aviation and aerobatic pilot taught me to fly and got me interested in aviation. I did not think I would be able to pursue a career in that industry, though, especially with my degree being in health and well-being.

At the beginning of my senior year, I was struggling to figure out what was next for me. After meeting with Dr. Giacobbi and sharing my interest in aviation with him, he suggested Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and I found the department of Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology. I immediately became fascinated with the field and found that it was a perfect blend of my health and well-being and aviation knowledge.

What do you think makes WVU’s program special?

WVU’s College of Applied Human Sciences is an amazing program due to its community and positive learning environment. The individuals within the CAHS want to see you succeed, and they are there to support you in whatever you need. There are also many opportunities for practical experience, volunteering, and shadowing within WVU’s program which helps students get an even better understanding and idea for their future career.

What are your plans following graduation?

After graduation, I will be furthering my education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida pursuing a Master of Science in Human Factors with a focus on aviation.

What is one piece of advice you would give to an incoming freshman coming to WVU?

Prioritize attending class, even if attendance isn't required. Simply going to class will help so much when it comes to studying and assignments. It is important and beneficial to create connections with those in your class and professors.

Kylie Coon

Major: Early Childhood Special Education
Minor: Special Education (K-12)
Hometown: Charleston, W.Va.

Why did you choose WVU and the College of Applied Human Sciences?

I chose WVU because it just always felt like home to me. I remember being in high school and thinking I would always move out of state for college, but when the time came to apply finally rolled around I couldn’t bring myself to even consider leaving West Virginia. I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember, so CAHS was the obvious choice for me.

Describe some of the obstacles you’ve overcome on your way to a college degree.

I definitely faced some obstacles as the first person to graduate from the program. I met some amazing people who were extremely helpful as I navigated may way. Dana Crudup, a professor and Pre-K teacher for Monongalia County has been a great blessing for me. I consider myself lucky to have her for class and to get to know her.

How did your program and the practical experience you gained during your time at WVU prepare you for your career?

My field experience was the best thing to prepare me for my career. For my minor, I did various observations at Key Learning Autism Center, the WVU CED Feeding Clinic, Stepping Stones, and PACE. I got to experience real hands-on learning and make connections with other members of the community. I was placed at Ridgedale Elementary for my student teaching and had a great Pre-K experience. I learned so much from my student teaching because it makes a world of difference going from learning in a classroom with your peers to being in a classroom full of 14 children and implementing everything you’ve learned along the way.

What do you think makes WVU’s program special?

I think the sense of community in Morgantown is what makes WVU so special. I love that even though the campus and population are huge, it still has that sense of “everyone knows everyone,” which is very comforting.

What does it mean to you to be among the first early childhood special education program graduates?

It’s really special to me because I worked very hard to get where I am, and it’s rewarding accomplishment. Plus, it’s a pretty cool fun fact!

What are your plans following graduation?

I plan to stay in Morgantown. I am applying for Pre-K special needs programs in Monongalia County.

What is one piece of advice you would give to an incoming freshman coming to WVU?

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Join a club or become a regular at your favorite study spot. If your schedule allows it, find a part-time job that relates to your degree I worked at a child development center in the area and I made some of the best friends and amazing connections through working there. I’m very thankful for the friends I’ve made through WVU.

Cody Fisher

Major: Physical Education and Kinesiology
Hometown: Berkeley Springs, W.Va.

Why did you choose WVU and the College of Applied Human Sciences?

I wanted the experience of a bigger school and chose independence over a school closer to my hometown. My family has attended WVU for decades and it felt like the right choice when my acceptance letters started coming in. Choosing CAHS came from my love of sport and physical activity. Teaching was always something I had an affinity for – I used to be a peer tutor in high school and my role models were always coaches, which lead me to the College of Applied Human Sciences.

Describe some of the obstacles you’ve overcome on your way to a college degree.

During my sophomore year, I switched majors from nursing to physical education. This was a big change, and it was a risk I wasn’t sure was worth it. When I changed majors, I didn’t have my established group anymore and I had to find my place in the game in whatever I decided to do next. It was challenging to go through such a large change and be comfortable with it and then sort of starting all over again from the ground up.

How did your program and the practical experience you gained during your time at WVU prepare you for your career?

Students are supported every single step of the way to their career career. I went from learning how to properly roll a ball with a group of classmates to teaching 45 classes a week by the end of it all.  All of my practicum experiences led me to that place, and there was always a supervisor and mentor to guide me in the right direction. I truly feel like a professional in my field and am comfortable with every skill the sports world has to offer, and it's all thanks to the experiences I had during my years in the program.

What do you think makes WVU’s program special?

This program invests a lot of time and resources in developing a student in the field. I never felt like my time was being wasted and the professors and success team are truly masters with their work. If you want to feel connected to the staff and be supported at every level, this is the right program for you. All of the faculty put students first in their lives, and it shows.

Describe your placement this year in Preston County and how that’s shaped you as a young professional.

My experience in Preston County has given me a different perspective on teaching and has shaped my teaching style as it became necessary. I've come to recognize my strengths in my profession and worked with some amazing professionals along the way. I wouldn't change it for anything else. I always felt supported and respected by my counterparts.

What are your plans following graduation?

I plan to move back to my hometown area and use the skills and certifications I have earned to build my career. I also plan on extending my education further into public health or education administration – there is always more to learn.

What is one piece of advice you would give to an incoming freshman coming to WVU?

Don't be afraid to take some risks – you're young enough to recover if you have some failures. WVU and the College of Applied Human Sciences has so many resources that helped drive me to where I am today. Establish friend groups along with study groups. Lastly, college is what you make of it, you can be as involved as you want to be, and you should take advantage of the opportunities that speak to you.

Rachel Ratliff poses for a portrait on a bench in a park by the beach

Rachael Ratliff

Major: Elementary Education
Minor: Child Development and Family Studies
Hometown: Bunker Hill, W.Va.

Why did you choose WVU and the College of Applied Human Sciences?

I chose WVU because my mom and sisters are alumni. My mom’s side of the family is from Morgantown, so this has always been a second home for me. I chose elementary education because my mom has been a teacher for 20 years. Growing up I watched her make an impact on children and it’s always been inspiring to me. She’s been my biggest mentor and supporter while pursuing this career.

Describe some of the obstacles you’ve overcome on your way to a college degree.

One of the biggest obstacles was competing the Praxis Core and Praxis II. It was a huge struggle for me when it would’ve been easy to simply give up. But I kept going and never let it defeat my dream of being a teacher. I’m extremely proud of myself for getting over those hurdles and never looking back.

How did your program and the practical experience you gained during your time at WVU prepare you for your career?

The practicum experience that I participated in was extremely helpful. I was placed at Cheat Lake Elementary for student teaching and I felt a sense of community that is valued there. I had the honor of observing three outstanding teachers during my time there and I learned so much. I can’t imagine jumping straight into the field without having those experiences, so I am beyond grateful.

What do you think makes WVU’s program special?

I think this program is extremely special simply because of the great professors. I’ve gotten to know several professors on such a genuine and authentic level, and it’s made learning so much more fun and special. The professors who are a part of this program have taught me so much, even outside the classroom.

What are your plans following graduation?

I plan on moving back to my hometown and living with my fiancé. I hope to work at an elementary school in one of the surrounding counties and find a new, loving, and welcoming work family.

What is one piece of advice you would give to an incoming freshman coming to WVU?

The obvious pieces of advice are to go to class, get to know your professors, stay organized, and manage your time well. However, an extremely important piece of advice I’d like to give is to make sure to separate work and fun. Make priorities and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy yourself while you’re here.

Adrianna Wood

Major: Sport and Exercise Psychology
Minor: Communication Studies
Hometown: Sykesville, Md.

Why did you choose WVU and the College of Applied Human Sciences?

I chose WVU for the chance to pursue Sport and Exercise Psychology. Being only three hours from home and with great scholarship opportunities, I was able to combine practicality with passion. I’ve been able to build great relationships within the Sport and Exercise Psychology department as well as the College of Applied Human Sciences, and the Office of Student Success has been supportive since the first day I started my journey with WVU.

Describe some of the obstacles you’ve overcome on your way to a college degree.

Having the opportunity to lead a group of students with a common passion has been very rewarding. I have been able to build relationships with incoming and current students, work with faculty to better the program as a whole, and develop leadership skills that will benefit me long-term. Being able to plan large-scale trips such as the one to the Midwest Sport and Exercise Psychology Symposium (MSEPS) provided new and exciting challenges. Overall, it has enriched my college experience and allowed me to make a positive impact on the WVU community.

How did your program and the practical experience you gained during your time at WVU prepare you for your career?

Two of the most impactful opportunities I’ve had are research and student employment. I spent all four of my years at WVU participating in some sort of research, whether it be assisting SEP PhD students with their work or conducting my own. I had the privilege of presenting my own research on neurodivergence and hiring at the Undergraduate Research Symposium, a key experience for me. Additionally, I spent three years working with Campus Recreation, a place where I was able to build practical personnel skills and apply them daily to a work environment. This was how I discovered my knack for personnel oversight and human resources work, something I am now pursuing a higher degree in.

What do you think makes WVU’s program special?

The faculty and staff truly care about each student’s individuality and encourage them to pursue and explore unique areas and interests. There is room for creativity, trying new things, and being your own person. I’ve always felt supported by the SEP faculty as I found my own path.

What are your plans following graduation?

I have accepted a Graduate Assistant position with Towson University’s Campus Recreation Department working in Member & Guest Services. I will be pursuing my master’s in Human Resource Development while in this role.

What is one piece of advice you would give to an incoming freshman coming to WVU?

Get to know your instructors! I got my first research opportunity by simply popping into someone’s office hours my freshman year. It helps your professors not only put a face to the name, but also learn more about you so they can best support you throughout your time at WVU. If they know you and your goals, they are more likely to reach out when opportunities arise that may fit your needs.