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Hope Wright, an elementary education major from Franklin Park, Pa., was inspired by a teacher at an early age and knew she wanted to be a similar role model to others. At West Virginia University, she balanced her academics with her love of music as a member of "The Pride of West Virginia." Wright’s hands-on experience in area schools helped her grow into the kind of teacher she once looked up to and strengthened her goal of returning to teach in her hometown.

Chloe Hardesty, an Elementary Education major from Marlinton, W.Va., inspired by her family's deep roots in education, embraced her passion for teaching early in life. During her time at WVU she found a community with her cohort and gained more than 900 hours of classroom experience that helped her develop her teaching style. On the verge of graduation, she will soon begin her career as a classroom teacher while also pursuing a master’s degree in education with a focus on mathematics.

Darius Redman came to WVU unsure of his path, but found his purpose through mentorship, field experience, and meaningful community connections. From student placements to coaching at Suncrest Middle School, he discovered the power of presence and positivity in education. A first-generation college graduate, Redman plans to take his Mountaineer skills and pride south to teach and coach cross country and track and field.

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.

Jadyn Collins, a Sport Management major from Weirton, W.Va., found her place at WVU by turning a love for sports into hands-on experience with the Mountaineer baseball team. Through three years of real-world involvement and mentorship from coaches, Collins built the foundation for a future in scouting and player evaluation. After graduation, she will head to Cape Cod to scout for the Oakland A’s and continue the momentum she created as a proud Mountaineer.

Ella Wix, a Mental Health and Addiction Studies major from Vienna, W.Va., is graduating with a clear purpose—to make a difference in the lives of others. A lifelong WVU fan, she was drawn to a new program that aligned perfectly with her passion for counseling. Along the way, Wix built strong relationships with faculty, embraced real-world experiences, and grew into a leader ready to combat the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. As she prepares to continue her education in WVU’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s program, Wix reflects on the powerful community, mentorship, and hands-on learning that shaped her success.

Mary Taylor Shaak always knew she wanted to attend West Virginia University, but she didn’t expect to find her passion in mental health and addiction studies. Now a senior set to graduate in December 2025, the Charleston, W.Va., native has embraced opportunities to support others through her work with WVU’s Collegiate Recovery Program. Her experiences—both personal and professional—have shaped her commitment to making a difference in the field of mental health.

Addison Dobson is eager – eager to learn, eager to talk, eager to do. She smiles easily and carries herself with the kind of energy that makes you believe she is looking for (and ready for) the next challenge. Whether it’s leaving Ohio to come to West Virginia University or jumping into a new sport with no experience, Dobson is the kind of person who leans in—fully, without hesitation.

On the surface, forensics science and human performance might seem worlds apart. The former involves meticulously piecing together evidence to solve crimes, while the latter seeks to optimize athletic performance on the field. Yet both disciplines share a core principle: the art and science of problem-solving through data. At WVU, Troy Bishop has found an unexpected yet harmonious bridge between the two.

Growing up in Felton, Del., Bishop attended a technical high school and learned to weld. However, he was inspired by his father, a police officer, to pursue a career in law enforcement. His interest in forensic science led him to WVU, renowned for its top-tier program in the field.

Adam McNeill’s path to West Virginia University was shaped by his family’s ties to WVU and his own passion for sports. A sport management major from Charlotte, N.C., McNeill has already built an impressive résumé, including an extensive internship with Learfield. With his sights set on a career in corporate partnerships, McNeill is consistently working to expand his network and opportunities that are provided to him by WVU.