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Devin Price
About two years ago when I began to really consider my college options, I was enthralled to research universities like Notre Dame and Princeton, both of which were high on my list for desirable institutions of higher education. However, the more I looked at all of these amazing universities, a part of me became slightly saddened at the thought of leaving the beautiful state that I was born and raised in – West Virginia, a place that I am convinced has some of the most kind and resolute people in the world. And then I had a realization: I was not ready to leave behind the country roads that I grew up on just yet. So, I began to seriously look into WVU, and after touring and discussing this option with WVU alumni, I came to the conclusion that West Virginia University is the culmination of all that makes our state wild and wonderful. From having the most excellent academics in our state, to the vast array of activities, and the immense West Virginia pride that forms the bedrock of the WVU community, I knew that I could not be anything other than a Mountaineer.
What is your favorite Mountaineer memory?
My favorite Mountaineer memory is the first time that I walked onto “The Green” at the Mountainlair. It was my first day at WVU, my friends and I had just gotten food from Hatfield’s, and we headed up to “The Green” to eat. I can remember ascending the steps out of the food court and walking out of the door, and looking around to see all of my fellow Mountaineers in what I can only describe as what seemed like a nostalgic scene from a movie. I knew that a new chapter in my life had truly begun. Furthermore, it also provided closure to my high school experience, as, given that I was not able to finish my senior year of high school in-person, I did not feel like I had moved on from being in high school until that moment.
Why did you want to become a PSA?
There are a few reasons why I wanted to become a PSA. First, I take great pride in being a Mountaineer, and hope to spread my love of West Virginia, and West Virginia University, with anyone who is willing to listen. Second, I have always enjoyed serving others in my community and state, and I hope to use my position as a PSA to promote service to others on campus. Finally, being a PSA provides me with the opportunity to have a larger platform to advocate for the students of WVU. In my service as a PSA, I will prioritize raising the needs and concerns of our fellow Mountaineers to the university, and I hope to provide a voice to those on campus with ideas for how to foster positive growth and change at WVU.
What did you learn from the PSA experience?
I have learned a number of professional and personal skills during my time in the PSA program. Professionally, I have been able to develop my public speaking and leadership skills so that I can be a better advocate for my fellow Mountaineers. Personally, I have learned how to combine these professional skills with a moral sense of service to put them to good use in my role as a representative of the student body. To speak out on issues that are important to myself and my peers, to speak up whenever any Mountaineer is in need of support, and to lift up the voices of all of the students who call WVU their alma matter. In short, I have learned what it means to be a Mountaineer – to “Go First!”