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Ryan Maiden
I’m a proud native of West Virginia and with that comes a healthy respect for WVU as an institution of higher education as well as a landmark in our state. My mother and father both attended WVU in the 80’s, and the rest of my family has a long generational record of attending as well. I chose WVU because it was close enough to home while also offering an amazing education, it was an easy choice that has afforded me more opportunities than I could’ve ever imagined.
- What is the BEST reason to attend WVU?
If you want a proud and supportive community of mountaineers that will cheer with you at football games, WVU’s your home. If you want to be a part of an award-winning Model United Nations team, WVU’s your home. If you want to live on a campus surrounded by the rolling hills and forests of the Mountain State, WVU’s your home. There are too many reasons to name just one!
- What is your favorite Mountaineer memory?
I make a new one every day, but my overall favorite memory so far is seeing Trevor Keiss in full Mountaineer garb, running out ahead of the football team with rifle and coonskin in hand. The excitement and immense cheers from the family I had just entered was more than I could handle, and I’ll remember it for a long time to come.
- Why did you want to become a Presidential Student Ambassador?
I wanted to give back to the institution that has given my family, friends, and myself so much. I wanted to show prospective students, their families, and current WVU Students just how much this place offers - whether it be Student Orgs, Study Abroad, or future success.
- What did you learn from the PSA experience?
As a Presidential Student Ambassador, I have learned the importance of service and how being a leader means getting your hands dirty for a good cause. My PSA experience taught me how my actions reflect not only on myself and my character, but on my university as well. I’ve become closer to my university, both mentally and physically, and have developed a deeper appreciation of the work that WVU has done to ensure that its students are well-equipped and well-treated. I loved the work I’ve been able to do and I’m so excited to have been afforded to opportunity to continue as a PSA and a Certified Student Leader.