Graduate Profiles 2026
Ama Frimpomaa Agyare-Addo
Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering
Hometown: Accra, Ghana
What is your favorite experience from your time at WVU?
“My favorite experience at the Statler College has been being able to form connections with the people that I’ve met through clubs or through classes, and being able to find that sense of belonging in a place that’s outside of my home country, away from my family; it’s been being able to find so many different opportunities that I think have really helped me grow as a person. Those are the things that I value the most within Statler and WVU as a whole.”
Ella Byrd
Bachelor’s and Master’s in Sport Management, Minors in Dance and Business Ethics
and Prosperity
Hometown: Morgantown
What advice would you give to incoming students?
“My advice to incoming students would be that it’s OK for your goals and interests to change while you’re in school. Learning who you are is what you’re meant to be doing! I will miss being close to my friends and people I look up to, such as my professors and mentors. I will also miss my advisor, Betsy Robbins. Her advice has always been able to guide me through courses, career opportunities and real-world challenges. She is someone I know that I can always count on and reach out to at WVU.”
Samuel Goodwin
Bachelor’s in Advertising and Public Relations, Minor in Psychology
Hometown: Charleston
What advice would you give to incoming students?
“I would tell them to definitely take your academics seriously. You are here to get a great education, and WVU gives you the opportunity to do that no matter what you study. But just as important, make sure you actually enjoy it. Be present and take in every moment, because it goes by faster than you think. It will challenge you in ways you might not expect, but it will also be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Give yourself time to breathe, step outside your comfort zone, try new things and meet new people. If you do that, you are going to have an incredible time here. WVU has been such a meaningful and rewarding part of my life, and it’s not just one thing I’ll miss. It’s everything that came with it.”
Abigail Paugh
Juris Doctorate and Master’s of Social Work
Hometown: Martinsburg
What advice would you give to incoming students and what is your proudest moment?
“You have to get your hands dirty to be the best attorney possible. There’s a huge difference between reading and learning the law and then actually figuring out how it’s applied in real-life settings. I feel like some of my proudest moments have been in the clinic, feeling like I’ve really made an impact, especially with these guardian ad litem cases. I did a four hour contested hearing between two parents, and I was the guardian ad litem. It makes you feel like you’re making a difference in a child’s life and standing up for someone who can’t stand up for themselves. Where there isn’t enough service for vulnerable populations, I want to provide it.”
Annie Dolan
Bachelor’s in Animal and Nutritional Sciences, Minor in Equine Studies
Hometown: Bridgeport
What is your favorite memory from your time at WVU and what will you miss most?
“My favorite memory from my time at WVU has been all of the experiences and friendships I have made through the organizations that I have joined. From horse shows and club events to simply spending time with people who share the same passion as me, those moments have truly shaped my college experience and made WVU feel like home. I will miss the people and the sense of community the most. WVU has given me so many friendships, opportunities and memories that I will always carry with me.”
Elaina Kraus
Bachelor’s in Forensic Chemistry
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Why did you choose WVU?
“The forensics program brought me here from Chicago. It’s a very well-known program — a great program, but I also just love the environment here. I love the mountains and I love the hills and the outdoors. All of that just made WVU the perfect fit for me. I would have to say my favorite thing about my time here would have to be the people and experiences I’ve had in the past almost four years. I’ve met such amazing people, and I’ve had such wonderful opportunities, and I could not imagine myself anywhere else.”
Elizabeth Loomis
Bachelor’s in Marketing with a Digital Marketing Focus, Minor in Event
Planning
Hometown: Uniontown, Pennsylvania
What is your favorite memory from your time at WVU?
“My favorite memory of my time at WVU would have to be winning the games against Pitt my sophomore and senior years. The energy and excitement from students, alumni and fans in those moments are something I’ll never forget and perfectly captures why I love being part of WVU. I will miss that unmatched sense of pride and community among students and alumni. There’s a genuine love for the school that you can feel every day, and being surrounded by that energy has meant so much to me. It will stick with me for the rest of my life.”
Jaliyah Hubbard
Doctor of Dental Surgery
Hometown: Weirton
What advice would you give to incoming students?
“As a soon-to-be graduate my best advice for incoming students is to focus on consistency over perfection. Don’t let small setbacks throw you off track, life and school will continue to move forward regardless, so learning to be resilient is essential. Build strong relationships with your classmates as they will become your support system and understand exactly what you are going through. Most importantly, give yourself grace — you wouldn’t be in your position if you weren’t capable of succeeding.”
Olivia Bushee
Bachelor’s in Respiratory Therapy
Hometown: Edgewater, Maryland
Which person at WVU has had the biggest impact on your college experience? What advice would you give to incoming students?
“So many people have had such a huge impact on my experience at WVU. My parents, my boyfriend, my roommates and our program director, Mike Mehall, have all supported and encouraged me throughout this experience. My advice to incoming students is to get involved, learn how to balance school with your social life and, lastly, take advantage of the many opportunities you have here.”
Matthew Amaismeier
Bachelor’s in Nursing
Hometown: Colliers
Why did you choose WVU and the School of Nursing?
“For me, the WVU School of Nursing was an easy choice. The direct admission program was a huge advantage, and the consistently high first-time NCLEX pass rates spoke to the strength of the program. It gave me confidence that I would be well prepared for my career and WVU has thoroughly equipped me for this next chapter by helping me develop resilience, a strong work ethic and compassion. The program has instilled values that I will carry with me into my nursing practice and use to provide the highest quality care to my patients.”
Samuel Newcomer
Doctor of Pharmacy, Master’s of Business Administration
Hometown: Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Why did you choose WVU and the School of Pharmacy?
“When I visited WVU in high school, I immediately knew it was the place for me. I even had the opportunity to tour the newly renovated WVU School of Pharmacy before being admitted into the program, which was a very memorable and motivating experience. I have been surrounded by supportive faculty and staff from day one. They have offered unique perspectives and guidance for pursuing diverse career paths after earning a PharmD, helping prepare me for the next steps in my career. I have learned that the possibilities are truly endless, and no choice has to be permanent. Explore your options early.”
Bryan McDonald
Bachelor’s in Health Services Administration
Hometown: Frederick, Maryland
What is your favorite memory from your time at WVU? What advice would you give to incoming students?
“Looking back through my time at WVU has been bittersweet. It feels like yesterday my parents were helping me move into Oakland Hall. Life moves fast, and it’s easy to lose focus and take the experience for granted. My advice is to slow down and appreciate the small moments. These experiences become cherished memories shaping professional and personal growth.”