Student Spotlight Paige Grove
B.S., Youth and Family Sciences
Class: 2026 Hometown: Johnstown, PA
Grove finds her calling in child life
Paige Grove came to WVU partly because of how welcoming the campus felt on visits, and partly because her mother is an alumna. She found her direction in Youth and Family Sciences, with a focus on child life, a healthcare specialty centered on supporting children and families through serious medical experiences. Hands-on time at WVU Medicine Golisano Children's Hospital put that training into practice and pointed her toward a master's degree in child life at the University of Georgia this fall.
Why did you choose WVU and your program in the College of Applied Human Sciences?
I chose WVU because of how kind everyone was each time I visited, and the connection it gave me with my mom, who is an alumna. The people really do make the place, and the support at WVU is something I feel incredibly lucky to have in common with my mom.
What drew you to this field?
Every member of my family is in some sort of helping profession, primarily teaching and education, so I knew I wanted to enter a similar field. When I discovered this program, and ultimately child life, I knew it was the perfect way for me to help others.
How has your program prepared you for your next chapter?
My program and professors have been pivotal in preparing me for my next chapter. The education, support, and opportunities I received at WVU prepared me for graduate level work.
What do you think separates this program from others?
I believe that the faculty and staff separate this program from others. It is evident in everything that they do that they deeply care about not only the material, but you as a student.
How did hands-on or applied learning experiences shape your time at WVU?
My hands-on learning experience at WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s Hospital gave me a first-hand experience in the world of child life, and helped me to affirm my future career and post-undergraduate plans.
What is a piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
One piece of advice I would give to my younger self is to be more present. It is very easy to get caught up in the hard times and wish it away, but four years never truly feels like enough.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I will be attending the University of Georgia to work towards my Master’s in Child Life.
What does earning a spot in Georgia’s program mean for where you want to go in your career?
Georgia’s program will provide me with the next layer of knowledge, experience, and confidence needed to aid children and families through traumatic and life-changing medical experiences.
What's the best thing about being a Mountaineer?
The best thing about being a Mountaineer is the community I have become a part of. I know that I will always have a place to go, someone to lean on, and support when it is needed, because of the time I have spent at WVU. Once a Mountaineer, always a Mountaineer!