Why did you choose to attend WVU? 

For the puppetry program! It's one of only two remaining programs in the country and with the numerous possibilities and styles of puppetry which exists; that sounds insane to me. At the same time, I think I'm naturally drawn to niche vocations. Probably the only way I wouldn't attend WVU is if in existence there were a university exclusively teaching every dying art form being kept alive by wise old hermits living high up in the mountains with no living descendants. 

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

I'm learning something new every day. Puppetry is the only major that explores theatrical fabrications and designs as well as the performance side of the art form, but they really do go hand-in-hand. Sculpting, painting, sewing, building, directing, writing, singing, acting and collaboration are all puzzle pieces to a puppet show. I'm continuously problem solving, delighted and inspired. Puppetry is the pinnacle of visual art and theatre!

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

For those curious about Puppetry: My favorite part of this major is how both the performance and design/technologies sides of puppetry are explored. Some builders or performers may feel discouraged by the other but in a university setting it's all about learning! I firmly believe that understanding mechanisms creates better performers and performing provides a new understanding to create better builds. 
For those just looking at the CCA: Do it! Take it one day at a time. Make mistakes and ask for help. Don't listen to the gremlins in your head that tell you you're not good enough or your story isn't worth telling. Peers, grad students and professors are kind, creative and supportive.

I have made the President's List every semester attending WVU. I worked on costume construction for all main stage productions in the last two years. I was the mask paint-lead for WVU's production of The Skriker; painted all the marionettes for the Puppet Mobile's touring marionette show: Goldilocks and the Three Bears / Little Red Riding Hood. Last spring, I directed a piece for the Advanced Directing Festival while I wrote and performed several sketches for Puppet Palooza. This summer I had the opportunity to teach Puppetry with WVU's Summer Acting Academy. In my final semester I hope to develop a show capable of touring regionally post-graduation!