Thomas Williams
“Exercise physiology is the best major for those interested in healthcare, regardless of their specific profession. I believe this program will allow you to be the best prepared for admissions exams and give you more healthcare clinical understanding of any major.”
Why did you choose your major or program?
I chose exercise physiology because I was interested in the field of healthcare. I felt this program gave me the best opportunity to seek out my career interests and also learn more about human physiology while in undergrad. It has been exciting for me to gain a breadth of knowledge in human movement, anatomy and clinical experience through the course content of this program. Seeing the passion my professors have to prepare students to be the best healthcare professionals they can be inspires me to be my best in each class.
Why did you choose to attend WVU?
Being born and raised in West Virginia, my roots and heart lie within this state. From a young age, I have dreamed of growing myself and my career here in West Virginia. WVU provided me with that opportunity. I felt the School of Medicine would best prepare me for my future career endeavors.
Have you participated in any hands-on learning or internship opportunities that you’ve really liked?
Participating in the human strength lab has been an experience that I have really enjoyed through the exercise physiology program. Understanding human movements and progressing through the Olympic lifts has been interesting and unique.
How do you think your degree/program is preparing you for your future?
I think my degree has prepared me for my future career in dentistry by giving me a strong STEM background and also an in-depth understanding of body physiology. Specifically, getting to have a cadaver lab while in undergrad has been a unique opportunity that will go a long way in giving me a head start for success while in graduate school.
What advice do you have for prospective students interested in your major?
I would tell prospective students that the exercise physiology program is the best major for those interested in healthcare, regardless of their specific profession. I believe this program will allow you to be the best prepared for admissions exams and give you more healthcare clinical understanding of any major here at the University.
Do you have plans yet for after graduation?
I am planning to attend dental school and get a DDS. My career goals are to have my own private practice in West Virginia, either as a general dentist or as an oral surgeon.
Have you received any honors or awards during your time at WVU? What extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I am honored to be a 2020 Neal S. Bucklew Scholar. I am the WVU Pre-Dental Club President, a WVU Presidential Student Ambassador, AHEC Rural Health Scholar, Mountain Honorary Member, Exercise Physiology Club Member and a Mountaineer Maniac Member.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I am proud to be a West Virginian and a Mountaineer. Let’s go!