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Natayah Moten
The second I stepped on WVU's campus for the first time on a campus tour back in my freshman year of high school, I knew this was the place for me. I fell in love with the lively environment, beautiful campus, the people and the amazing traditions of the university and state. There are so many opportunities WVU has to offer for their students' growth as a person, leader, scholar, and professional, and that's what I love about it. I was able to find my people and build a community I've never had back in my hometown and I'll always have the university to thank for that. Although I'm not from West Virginia, WVU never fails to make me feel like I belong and that I'm capable of achieving more than I've ever dreamed of. It'll always be my home away from home.
What is your favorite Mountaineer memory?
My favorite Mountaineer memory would be attending the Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Breakfast hosted by The Center for Black Culture. Being able to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. while also being with the people I love and connecting with others will always be a moment I'll hold close to my heart. I didn't have a lot of events like this back in my hometown so going to the breakfast meant a lot to me as a young woman of color.
Why did you want to become a PSA?
I wanted to become a PSA so that I could give back to the community I've aspired to be a part of since 2022, my first time touring the WVU's campus. Serving in this position will also allow me to have to the opportunity to represent the university and everything it stands for - excellence, leadership, service, diversity. It would be my way of thanking WVU for continually challenging me and shaping me into the woman I am becoming. I want to honor the university's continued reputation of tradition and renown by being of service in the community and sharing my story, experiences, and love for WVU with people from all walks of life. It would be a privilege to serve in this position and give back to the place that has gifted me more than fourteen-year-old me could have ever imagined.
What did you learn from the PSA experience?
Looking at my time as a PSA this semester, I have learned what it truly means to give a good speech, be a leader, and serve in my community. I got to build genuine connections with my fellow C14 PSAs and learn a lot about them as well as from them. They have taught me how to be brave, persevere, and show up for others.