Student Life and Engagement with Lizzie

Transcript

Let’s check in with Lizzie, a recent communications graduate now pursuing her master’s, who discovered a strong sense of belonging after moving from Michigan. Fairmont State University offers an array of student organizations that cater to many different interests. Lizzie has embraced cherished university traditions and is actively engaged in numerous student organizations on campus. Lizzie, tell us your story. Please take it away.

– Well, thank you Alex for that amazing introduction. What’s up everyone? Fairmont State University is a long way from my home in Grand Ledge, Michigan. It was quite the decision to move seven hours away, but my gut told me that I truly belong here in the heart of West Virginia. At Fairmont State, I’ve had the unique opportunity to compete in a sport that was co-created by one of our faculty, acrobatics and tumbling. Falcons have a tradition of growth, improvement, and excellence, which is evidenced by the university’s willingness to launch a whole new sport back in 2010. And we don’t just compete, we soar. My team has won four conference championship titles and made multiple nationals appearances. Athletics, greatness is one thing, but this is poured into every sector of our campus. From academics to our facilities and grounds and even our student organizations, there’s a collective desire to do and be better. Speaking of student organizations, Fairmont State offers tons and I happen to be a part of a few here on campus. As an athlete, I’m able to be a part of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, where I’m currently serving as president for my second year. As president, I’ve gained valuable leadership experience, which is so rewarding. I’m also a campus captain for The Hidden Opponent, which is a mental health group aimed at breaking the stigma of mental health around student athletes. I’ve learned so much about mental health and how to support my peers who may be struggling. With five years of the best academic, athletic, and student organization experiences, saying goodbye to Fairmont State is going to be tough, but my experiences have prepared me to go out into the world and soar. That’s all for me, so let’s flip it back to you, Alex.

– Lizzie, it sounds like there’s something for everyone at Fairmont State University. Your experience shows how there are plenty of ways to get involved on campus. Through student organizations, it’s easy to build friendships and find support. Falcons truly thrive through campus engagement. Keep having fun, Lizzie. Take care.