Meet the grads: David Malecki, WVU Reed College of Media
David Malecki
Major: MS in Integrated Marketing Communications (Spring 2024), BSJ in Advertising and Public Relations (Spring 2023)
Hometown: Sarver, Pennsylvania
What is your favorite memory from your time at WVU?
My favorite memory would be the WVU-Virginia Tech football game in 2021. I was just starting out as a University Relations photographer, so the excitement of being on the field following a year of limited capacity was palpable. It was a hot day, the stadium was packed and the Mountaineers were playing great against a ranked team, with the first play being an 80-yard rushing touchdown. During the game’s final drive, I remember watching intently on the sidelines as the defense held off Virginia Tech on fourth and goal. The energy on the field and the celebration after the nail-biting 27-21 victory was an unforgettable experience.
Which person at WVU has had the biggest impact on your college experience? How has that person helped you?
The person who has had the greatest impact on my college experience would be Dr. Geah Pressgrove. She was my professor for Martin Hall Agency, along with Professor Chuck Borghese. Both were instrumental in my professional development, allowing me to grow in a creative role and seeing my potential for other work beyond class. Dr. Pressgrove also referred me for jobs like my freelance product photography job with Primoprint, further building my resume and portfolio. She was always available to provide feedback on class work or anything else to help me. As I wrap up my time at WVU, I could not be more grateful for her and other professional mentors who have helped me so much along the way.
What is your best advice for incoming students?
My advice is to do all the things you can — join that student organization, talk to the people tabling at the Mountainlair, try that food at the dining hall (definitely get the breakfast pizza), and get to know as many people as possible. Those opportunities could become leadership roles that open doors in the future, and those students could become your professional colleagues, helping each other to achieve success. When I first started college, I didn’t try as many things as I could have. I missed out on some opportunities, which made it more distant after the pandemic. I realized the importance of getting involved with student organizations that helped me earn my photography job at University Relations, become president of our award-winning American Advertising Federation club, and most importantly, have many memories to look back on. The first few weeks are a crucial time to define your college career so do what you can to make the most of it.
What will you miss most about WVU?
I will certainly miss being able to capture WVU games on the field and court. I think what I’ll miss most is the familiarity of campus and the Morgantown area. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about WVU and its unique history and fun facts. This small town has something for everyone, and I enjoyed having all the places and things I wanted within the town. In addition, the beauty of scenic West Virginia is not far from campus, I was able to make many day trips to places like Seneca Rocks, Blackwater Falls and Dolly Sods. And, as mentioned previously, the atmosphere on football game days is something I will miss very much. Let’s Go!