Cohort 15 - Spring 2026

Lama Alshamroukh

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

I chose WVU because it immediately felt like home, something I was looking for, especially as an international student. I loved the strong sense of community, the support students get from the amazing faculty, and the opportunities available in research and health sciences. WVU offered the environment where I knew I could grow academically and personally.

Joely Chikombero

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

I chose WVU because I really loved the atmosphere and location. It’s in-state at the perfect distance from home, where I can come back for the weekend but can still venture out. With being a decent price and close to so many fun adventures and opportunities, it was an easy choice.

Catherine Evans

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

II chose WVU because it felt like home! Both of my parents went here, so I grew up with WVU. I also really liked that it wasn't super far from my hometown and, financially, it made the most sense.

Paige Elizabeth Fox

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

I chose WVU because of their commitment to service, not only to the community but to the entire state. I have been involved in 4-H through WVU Extension since I was in 3rd grade, and I have seen the positives of serving my community. I hope to continue my service throughout my whole time here at WVU!

Adalaide P. Hickey

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

I chose WVU, because I felt a personal connection in every corner of campus. It seemed like there would always be someone ready to support me with anything I needed - which proved to be extremely true.

Kayla Holloman

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

I chose WVU because it felt like home. I have lived in West Virginia for most of my life, so the mountains have always been visible for me. I also felt very welcome by my peers and professors, so there was very little worry about whether I would fit in. I wanted to go far enough away where I could meet new people from a multitude of places but still be close enough to home where I could visit old friends by driving home. Knowing I could feel at home but still have brand new experiences truly helped me decide that WVU was right for me.

Daniel T. Kaddar

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

Growing up around WVU, I have seen many aspects of this place that run counter to the stigma some people hold about the school. This university and its community offer unique opportunities, and for me, programs like the IMMB major and the Global Medical and Dental Brigades student organization. Being aware of opportunities like these is what kept me from leaving this great state for higher education. The Research 1 distinction that WVU holds makes it a spectacular choice for anyone in STEM. At the end of the day, no distant university can be prestigious enough to outweigh the value of pursuing my degree in the same place that is home to my family.

Lily Meyers

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

After witnessing several injustices happen in my life, I decided that I wanted to help people by securing justice for everyone. Additionally, I knew that I wanted to understand how people think and use my love of chemistry to do this. This pushed me to pursue majors in forensic chemistry and psychology - two great programs at WVU. Although I had almost decided on WVU by the time I toured it, the campus' welcoming feeling and the kindness of my student tour guides solidified my decision. I am beyond happy with my choice in WVU.

Karlee McCune

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

My family has always been a large advocate for WVU, and several members have attended the University in previous years. However, before applying, I had my doubts about attending WVU. I thought if I moved further away from home, outside of my comfort zone, I would be able to become a more independent person. But after my first tour, I no longer felt that way. Here, the University embraces its students' unique qualities and offers so many opportunities that I never thought possible. West Virginia University teaches you to grow and adapt to become the best person you can be.

Brooklynn Miller

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

In my college admission journey, I was determined to go out of state. I toured multiple colleges outside of West Virginia and fantasized about getting away from home. However, I knew deep down that I would pick the cheapest option- which was WVU. After being accepted into the Honors College and getting Honors housing with my best friend, I felt more excited to come here. During my NSO, I was blown away with how this campus instantly felt like home. Everyone around me shared the same excitement and fondness about this school and I instantly fell in love. During the drive home, I knew that I was always meant to be a Mountaineer.

Lauren Marrie Morris

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

WVU has one of the best programs for Forensic Science and Investigative Studies, where students can truly find their passion, gain the expertise needed for this field, and build lifelong connections that carry them into the professional sphere. I’ve been a resident of West Virginia for my entire life, and growing up here has shown me what true community and support mean. Morgantown has the strength and togetherness that this state has shown me growing up, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.

Sarah Ariana Rahin

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

I chose WVU because it offers the academic strength of a large university while also providing the support of a close-knit community that is usually found at smaller schools. I have the opportunity to further my career and have the support of both faculty and peers. As a native West Virginian, I also wanted to continue my education while staying connected to my Mountaineer values.

Tyson Watson

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WVU?

I chose WVU for multiple reasons. As I am from West Virginia, being a Mountaineer fan runs in my blood, and I grew up watching WVU football and basketball games every week with my family. Getting the opportunity to experience these things from a student perspective is incredible. Secondly, WVU has a great animal science program to prepare students for veterinary school and the amount of resources and flexibility provided to me are amazing, and will help me a lot in pursuing my future career as a veterinarian. Lastly, the ability to earn a strong education at an extremely affordable price was also a large factor, especially considering the sheer amount of research opportunities at WVU.