Student Spotlight Hayden Apel
Major:
Health and Well-Being
Minor: Sport and Exercise Psychology
Class:
2025
Hometown:
Hilliard, Ohio
Apel embraces whole-health approach at WVU
Hayden Apel, a Health and Well-Being major from Hilliard, Ohio, embraced his time at WVU by combining academic growth with athletic achievement. Through his academic studies and practical experience at Advantage Health and Wellness, Apel discovered the importance of a holistic approach to health. His time as a Division I student-athlete as a diver for the Mountaineers shaped his resilience and commitment in all aspects of his life. Apel will continue his Mountaineer journey by pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy at WVU.
Why did you choose WVU and the College of Applied Human Sciences?
I chose WVU because as soon as I stepped on campus, I knew that this would be a place where I could grow both athletically and academically. The College of Applied Human Sciences offers a great blend of both the physical and mental sides of health, as well as provides ways to keep the community healthy as well.
What drew you to this program as it related to preparing you for a career and how has that perspective evolved?
I was drawn to the program because I’ve always been interested in how the body moves and how to help others stay healthy. This perspective has evolved, as I have realized in the program, it is not just about taking care of the body. It takes a multi-faceted approach to truly keep someone healthy, and because of my education in CAHS, I am better equipped to do what I have always wanted to: help keep people healthy.
What do you think separates this program from others?
The personal relationships with faculty and the emphasis on applied experience make this program stand out. The professors truly care about your success as a student and a person. They go the extra mile to help you grow in the classroom and beyond. The collaborative environment and hands-on learning opportunity really set this program apart.
What hands-on or real-world experiences did you have during your time in the program, and how did they shape your learning or career goals?
I have had the opportunity to work at Advantage Health and Wellness and gain hands-on experience in patient interaction. This experience solidified my passion for helping others improve their well-being and prepared me for a future in physical therapy.
Who has been the most influential person during your time at WVU?
I would have to say Dr. Murphy has been the most influential person during my time here. Dr. Murphy has been the professor for many of my classes, and she has challenged me to think outside of the box and consider ways of helping others that I had not thought about before.
What advice would you give to a student just starting in your program?
Take every opportunity to get involved – internships, extracurriculars, and so much more. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and build connections with your professors and peers. The more you put into the program, the more you get out of it.
How did you balance the demands of Division I athletics with your academic program?
It wasn’t always easy. I relied heavily on time management, organization, and support systems. I always tried to stay one step ahead and made a plan week by week to make sure I had enough time for what I needed to get done both academically and athletically.
What does earning this degree mean to you or your family?
It means everything. It is a symbol of the hard work, late nights, and early mornings, and the effort I put in to be where I am right now. For my family, it’s a reflection of the support they’ve given me every step of the way.
What has it meant to you to represent WVU as a student-athlete?
It has been an absolute honor. Wearing the WVU logo has meant representing something bigger than myself –my teammates, coaches, the university, and the state. It has taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of community.
What’s the best thing about being a Mountaineer?
The people, the pride, and the passion. The support and sense of belonging here in Morgantown is something that you can’t get anywhere else. Once you’re a Mountaineer, you’re always a Mountaineer!