Class Rank: Junior

Major and Minor: Music Industry

Why did you choose to attend WVU?

I chose to attend WVU because it is the only school in the entire state of West Virginia with the Music Industry major. In addition, I knew that being a part of Mon Hills Records, the student-run record label on campus, would give me the experience I need in order to have a successful career in the music business.

What do you like about your major and your WVU experience?

I like that the Music Industry major offers its major-specific courses online because it gives students like myself more time to get hands-on experience during the day such as attending recording sessions, working with Mon Hills Records artists, attending local shows, meeting others in the music business, and more. My experience at WVU so far has prepared me to be successful in the music industry because it provides not only a record label to mimic working for one in the real world, but it also provides professors who actually work in the field who are able to give us music industry-specific guidance. Because I have gained professional label experience while attending WVU, I was able to intern at Big Machine Label Group in Nashville, Tennessee this summer and apply what I have learned while working at Mon Hills to one of the most successful labels in the world. This is a result of the fine music business education I have received while attending WVU.

What advice would you give to prospective students considering attending WVU's College of Creative Arts?

My advice for prospective students considering attending WVU's College of Creative Arts is to strive for your biggest goals, even if they seem out of reach. WVU gives students the opportunity to do this; I never imagined I would work for Big Machine Label Group as a sophomore in college, but anything can happen as long as you work hard enough! Music Industry staff at WVU helped me gain the experience I needed for such a pristine internship.