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Meet the Grads: Zachary Moats

Photo of young man and young woman in front of townhouses.
Zachary Moats, originally from Columbia, South Carolina, chose to attend WVU to major in environmental microbiology at the Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design. He will graduate May 13 before pursuing a master's degree in environmental science at Villanova University in the fall. After that, he is considering either getting a doctorate or working in a governmental agency, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 

"My future hopes are to never stop learning and to work toward breaking down the communication barriers between environmental scientists and the general public," Moats said. 

Photo of young man in classroom lab.
Why did you choose to attend WVU Davis College? 
I chose to attend the WVU Davis College due to the uniqueness of my major, sense of community and opportunities that the Davis College has to offer. 

What was your most valuable experience at Davis College?
Working with the incredible faculty and staff who have given me the guidance and opportunities I needed to succeed.

What advice do you have for current Davis College students? 
I think many of my fellow students do not use the resources of Davis College to the fullest. Taking the first step and attending events or speaking to faculty goes a long way. 

What advice do you have for high school students? 
Similar to my advice to Davis College students, I think that once at college, students should reach out to faculty. The answer is always no until you ask--whether it's an internship, SURE program or even just to explain an absence. Many 
students are reluctant to speak to faculty members. 
However, I have never had a difficult or bad experience. 
Students often forget that professors were once in our 
exact place.