Amelia Holtschneider

Tell us about your field placement experience or other hands-on experiences.

Last year, I took part in the Pipeline into Rural Education Program. Throughout this experience, I spent time advocating for rural health, volunteering at food banks, and assisting in basic health screenings. This experience directly taught me ways to reach vulnerable populations within rural Appalachia.

What advice would you give to your freshman self?

Don't get behind, and don't be afraid to ask for help! Your professors want you to succeed, and they'll help you however they can.

What do you plan to do upon completion of your degree?

After graduation, I plan to shift into a clinical setting. The end goal is to be a nurse practitioner. I know with the background I've gotten in my time at the WVU School of Public Health, I'll have the insight to advocate for my patients as needed.

Tell us about your first-generation experience. 

Being first-generation to me means taking a leap of faith and getting out of your comfort zone. But once you do, the reward is worth it. Don't doubt yourself--if you need help, ask. Personally, navigating college was tough--especially when I was first figuring it out and going through the paperwork. If you have any questions, reach out to faculty or even fellow students. There are people who want to see you succeed.