ALUMNUS OF THE WEEK: BRITTANY BYLER ('19)

 Major: Social Work

Hometown: Elkton, Ky.

Current town: Bowling Green, Ky.

Job: Therapist with Family Options

Why I chose WKU: “I chose WKU because it was the perfect fit for me! I always wanted to attend a smaller campus that allows you to form relationships with professors and peers. I wanted my college experience to feel personal. Not to mention, the campus is beautiful, and I love living in Bowling Green.” 

Favorite WKU experience or memory: “My favorite WKU memory is my time spent in the Social Work program. I loved all my professors and they helped me grow so much as a person through my time there. (Shoutout to Dr. Funge!) Also, I enjoyed spending late nights studying in the library or Mass Media.”

What WKU means to me: “WKU is a close-knit campus where you are challenged to grow in multiple areas and not just academically. I will not forget my experiences and the people I met during my time at WKU. I am proud to be an alumna.”

Skills learned at WKU: “I learned the importance of social justice and advocating for others, especially minorities. I learned to look at the world through a trauma-informed lens and how I wanted to practice as a therapist.”

Advice for future Hilltoppers: “Make the most of the time you have here. It passes so fast! Work hard and study hard, but don’t forget to have fun too. For future therapists or social workers, always be open to learning, whether at your field placement or throughout your career. You will never outgrow the need to continue learning. Your clients will change you for the better, so allow them to do so. Social work is hard but so worth it. When it gets hard, remember why you started. You never know how you may impact someone else’s life. It’s humbling to be allowed to be a part of your client’s journey.”

Hobbies or Interests: “My interests outside of work include drawing, painting and listening to music. I enjoy spending time with friends and am always down for a coffee run.”

Interesting fact about you: “I am a twin! She is right-handed and I am left-handed.”

Favorite quote or motto: “Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” 

Anything else to share: “I’m a crazy cat lady. Don’t hold that against me.”

Fill out the Alumnus of the Week form for your chance to be featured: alumni.wku.edu/aow.

Posted Aug. 3, 2021