WKU News

Christopher Bussell, a graduating senior from Hopkinsville, chose WKU because of the support, community and growth it offers students with diverse backgrounds.

As an Interdisciplinary Studies student with a focus in Health, Bussell said it allowed him to pursue multiple fields that he is passionate about - such as Environmental Science, Organizational Leadership, and Occupational Safety and Health.

“The Interdisciplinary Studies program has given me the flexibility to tailor my education to my interests, allowing me to explore a wide range of topics and develop a well-rounded skill set. This approach has made my learning experience dynamic and aligned with my career goals,” Bussell shared.

Bussell has applied what he has learned in the program by developing environmental management plans, promoting safety protocols and leading community outreach initiatives.

“Courses like Environmental Management Systems and Contemporary Leadership Issues have equipped me with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, directly applicable to roles in environmental health and safety,” Bussell said.

“Developing environmental strategies and safety plans for my coursework and extracurricular activities has solidified my interest in pursuing a career in this field.”

Additionally, Bussell developed his leadership skills in his role as the first Vice President of WKU's chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. His responsibilities include facilitating the recruitment process, coordinating events and helping build a strong chapter.

“This experience has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of organizational leadership and team dynamics,” Bussell said.

“The best part has been the sense of community and the opportunity to grow as a leader," Bussell said. “The support from my peers, mentors, and faculty has been invaluable, especially during challenging times.”

Bussell’s recent loss of his mother greatly impacted his perspective on life and leadership.

“It was an incredibly challenging period, but the support I received from my fraternity brothers, peers and the WKU community helped me persevere,” Bussell said. “This experience taught me resilience and the importance of having a strong support network.” 

LaMario Moore, Assistant Director for the Intercultural Student Engagement Center, is one mentor who had a personal and professional impact on Bussell.

“As a mentor, he provided invaluable guidance, especially during difficult moments like the loss of my mother. His support helped me stay focused on my goals, and his advice on leadership and community involvement has been instrumental in shaping my career path. His mentorship has given me the confidence to step into leadership roles and make a meaningful impact both on campus and beyond,” Bussell shared.

After graduation, Bussell hopes to work in environmental health and safety focusing on creating safer and more sustainable workplaces.

“I aim to use my skills in leadership and environmental management to drive positive change in organizations,” Bussell said.

For information on undergraduate degree options in Interdisciplinary Studies, visit https://www.wku.edu/idst/index.php.

#WKUGrad series: For more stories on graduating students in the #WKUGrad series, visit https://www.wku.edu/news/articles/index.php?view=default&categoryid=799&multinewsid=187

-WKU-

Western Kentucky University prides itself on positioning its students, faculty and staff for long term success. As a student-centered, applied research university, WKU helps students expand on classroom learning by integrating education with real-world applications in the communities we serve. Our hilltop campus is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, which was recently named by Reader’s Digest as one of the nicest towns in America, just an hour’s drive from Nashville, Tennessee.