Happy Holidays from Fairmont State University. The University is closed from 4 p.m. Friday, December 20 through Thursday, January 2. Fairmont State will reopen on Friday, January 3.
The Honors Spotlight draws attention to the good work being done in our community and out in the world by Honors alumni, current Honors students, and faculty/staff who support the Honors Program. Is there someone associated with the Honors Program that deserves our recognition? Please submit nominations for future Spotlight recipients below!
What brought you to Fairmont State University and why did you join the Honors Program?
I had heard so many wonderful things about Fairmont’s campus, especially about their education program, that it did not take much thinking. After I had toured the campus, I was sold. Coming from a big city, I was definitely nervous about being in such a small town. Truly, that is the best thing about our university. I have never felt such a strong familial bond! Joining the Honors Program was also an easy choice. I had applied myself rigorously in high school and wanted to continue to surpass those standards. Most importantly, the program would give me a community. A lot of my first friends were made through the Honors program.
What are some of your favorite or most impactful memories regarding your time with the Honors Program at Fairmont State?
My most favorite memory so far has been the mentor/mentee luncheon. Since I had been admitted to the university during the onset of COVID, activities across campus were limited. When I attended campus during my sophomore year, I got to see the campus come alive. During the luncheon, we had an icebreaker event where I found some new friends (and enemies who liked pineapple on their pizza).
Where do you hope life takes you after you’ve graduated from the Honors Program at Fairmont State?
After graduation, I plan to begin my education career in the general area. I am extremely hopeful that I will be placed at one of my host schools after my clinical field experience. On top of that, I have recently been appointed as the Lead Outreach Specialist for the Marion County Family Resource Network. This position allows me to connect to the community and create informational events for all demographics. Depending on how this year of employment goes, I might find myself a temporary home working for this wonderful organization.
What advice would you offer to future Honors students at Fairmont State University?
Future Honors students, you are going to love it here! Do not be afraid to attend campus-wide activities as well as Honors functions. There are far too many wonderful things happening to be holed up in your dorm room! Do not be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone because you will run into so many people along the way that are going through the same things you are. Make friends, study hard, and remember to have fun!
Why the Spotlight?
Tori is one of the 2022/2023 recipients of the J. Robert Baker Scholarship for Excellence in Honors!
What brought you to Fairmont State University and why did you join the Honors Program?
I decided to come to Fairmont State because it not only gave me a chance to pursue architecture and softball, but it also gave me the opportunity to be a part of an academic community that would give me a relationship with my professors that I couldn't find anywhere else. I joined the Honors program as a way to be part of an academic group that would put in me classes that challenged my mind and way of thinking.
What are some of your favorite or most impactful memories regarding your time with the Honors Program at Fairmont State?
My greatest blessing to come out of the Honors program was taking the late Dr. Paul Edwards' Future Global Crises class in the Spring of 2021. This class was taught by Dr. Paul, but Dr. Hinton and Dr. Baker also sat in on the class. I learned so much from the 3 of them and I was extremely honored and grateful I got to have the unbelievable Dr. Paul Edwards before his retirement.
Where do you hope life takes you after you’ve graduated from the Honors Program at Fairmont State?
After receiving my undergraduate degree in architecture at Fairmont State, I plan to go to graduate school to pursue a master's degree in architecture. I hope to one day use my degrees to design low-income housing.
What advice would you offer to future Honors students at Fairmont State University?
To the future Honors students at Fairmont State, take advantage of all of the wonderful lessons your professors have to give you. Life is so much more than a letter grade, and these professors can be the people to change your life and way of thinking in ways you didn't even know. Let yourself be open and willing to knowledge, change, and inspiration.
Why the Spotlight?
Shelby is one of the 2022/2023 recipients of the J. Robert Baker Scholarship for Excellence in Honors!
