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Lowell Parascandola
I chose WVU because of the vast opportunities this University has. Whether you want to join a club, play on an intramural team, be a co-author on a research project, or go to a football game, there’s an opportunity for everyone. The atmosphere at WVU is so welcoming, it makes me truly feel at home with the other Mountaineers. The WVU legacy for me doesn’t end after 4 years, because I know WVU opened endless doors for me and will always be a part of who I am.
What is the BEST reason to attend WVU?
The best reason to attend WVU is the friendships and connections you will make in the Mountaineer family. WVU is full of friendly faces and it’s not uncommon for a stranger to say hello or smile while walking around campus.
What is your favorite Mountaineer memory?
My favorite Mountaineer memory was my freshman year singing country roads after the victory at the home opener football game in fall of 2019. I was surrounded by people who were as happy as me to spend the next four years in Morgantown, and I truly felt at home.
Why did you want to become a PSA?
Being an Army ROTC cadet intending to become an Army officer, it’s important to be an effective leader, and the PSA program enables me with opportunities to not only improve my leadership abilities, but also speak confidently in front of a group. I knew I needed to work on my speech skills and knew this program could help with that. I wanted to work with like-minded peers that I could also learn from.
What did you learn from the PSA experience?
Overall, this year so far was essential for the building of my leadership abilities, and it was strengthened in the multiple activities that I participated in so far this year. Writing multiple speeches improved my confidence in speeches and talking in front of a group. I quickly learned my strengths and weaknesses as a leader. I knew I had good communication and patience with my group, but I learned how my confidence can be lowered if I am not the most prepared for the situation. I learned how leadership and service overlap and go together in many instances and occupations. Being thrown into leadership positions was very beneficial for me because I was able to quickly learn ways to be a better leader. I hope to utilize these leadership skills and strategies in future activities that I will participate in, such as leading a research project, helping communities, and treating soldiers as an Army surgeon and officer.