Major:
Masters of Fine Arts in Costume Design and Technology
Hometown:
Elkins, WV
Why did you choose to attend WVU?
I chose WVU because of professor Mary McClung. Her experience, talent, skills, and connections are a valuable asset. When I read her book on foam manipulation, while receiving my undergraduate degree, I knew that she was the person I wanted to learn from.
What is your profession now?
I am the resident costume design and teacher at the Old Brick Playhouse and Education Outreach Coordinator for the Augusta Heritage Center.
What is your most interesting current/upcoming project?
I am leading a touring show and designing a season for a company with over fifty students.
How do you feel WVU and the College of Creative Arts prepared you for your career?
It was important to not only gain the skills of design, but also the ability to see the construction of the designs through to the end. Many institutions have design programs where the designers never touch a sewing machine or drape a pattern. I also learned how to think on my feet and make quicker, stronger decisions around my designs. My experiences at WVU have allowed me to be a stronger competitor in my field.
If you could give one piece of advice to incoming or current students in WVU's College of Creative Arts, what would it be?
Never be afraid to ask a question. Your professors are there to help you learn and grow. If you finish a project and you feel like your design or work wasn’t up to snuff it is okay. Just work harder on the next project. Learning requires you to question everything and experiment with your art. Never be afraid to push yourself out of the box.