OCSE Student & Alumni Spotlights

"The amount of support I have received from not just my classmates but professors and other faculty is incredible. Being a part of a mid-sized program, I have become very good friends with my classmates. This program has given me more opportunities than I could have ever imagined. I’ve been able to go on a storm chase field course, forecast for the Special Olympics at Disney World, participate in multiple internships, and so much more. I am grateful to be part of such an amazing program here at WKU!"

"The Physics and Astronomy Department is small but mighty. I have had so many wonderful opportunities to get to know my physics professors here. Everyone in this department, students and professors, is friendly and approachable. There are many different clubs, research experiences, and classes that allow students to branch out and enjoy any area of physics they are interested in. Being a physics major is not all math and misery. You acquire the skills necessary to solve a problem. You learn to question everything."

"I have had the opportunity to take a wide variety of classes that have helped me gain the necessary tools to be equipped for my future career. I have also had the opportunity to participate in many fun activities while in the Geology Club, one of my favorites being the numerous caving trips we go on throughout the year. Not only does the Geology program offer research opportunities for students, but it also advertises research programs that occur across the country, which I also participated in."

"Over this past summer, I have had the opportunity to conduct research with Professor Özer and the recently graduated MSc student Ahmet Kaan Aydin. I have learned more in these past few months than I have in the past few years. More than learning a single subject, I have had a wonderful introduction into the synthesized world of applied mathematics, but even more broadly speaking, I have been introduced firsthand to academia itself. I am a fervent supporter of the undergraduate research experience, and I firmly suggest it to anyone who has even the slightest curiosity beyond the classroom."

"Being a part of ESGS has allowed me to grow professionally and has created opportunities that have provided me with an amazing college experience. I was able to get involved and hold leadership positions in student organizations that helped me gain real-world experience in my major. Through the mentorship and encouragement of my professors, I was admitted into the JUMP (joint undergraduate-master’s) program with which I will graduate in five years with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees."

"During my time at WKU, my true home was found within the Agriculture department. I've been able to learn and apply real-world knowledge through the classes I've had the pleasure of taking. My professors have always been very personable and outstanding in helping with any struggles I have faced. The opportunities I have had at the Agriculture Farm have helped me to grow as a confident individual through the use of hands-on learning that you simply don't get in a classroom. Coming to WKU has been the best decision of my life thus far, and I couldn't recommend the agriculture department enough! GO TOPS!"

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at WKU so far and believe that this has been the best stepping stone for my future. I am currently an engineering intern at Sumitomo Electrical Wiring Systems and am also a student worker in the mechanical engineering prototype lab. Currently, I am involved in a student research project with Professor Lenoir. I have made multiple important connections through WKU through our industrial partners, professors, and other students. WKU has been my home for the last four years, and I couldn't imagine a better environment to learn and grow as a person and as a professional."

 "During my time at WKU, specifically in the Honors College, there have been many opportunities that I would never have had the pleasure of experiencing anywhere else, especially in psychological sciences. From the moment I met the professors in the department, I have received support and encouragement to expand my horizons. To gain more applicable experience with research methods and experimentation, I reached out to several professors and have been working in the Lifespan Social Cognition Lab recording data and analyzing findings."

"My time on The Hill has allowed me to grow in many critical ways that have shaped me into a more well-rounded member of my community. I can credit my growth to those who have mentored me throughout the process and helped me get involved in extracurriculars such as neurobiology research in Dr. Smith's lab, peer monitoring for the Honors College, and traveling with global medical brigades to rural Honduras over the summer. Aside from this, I have been surrounded by faculty and staff that encouraged me to use my personal values as guidance and inspiration. As always, go Tops!"