MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Jillian Blair toured West Virginia University as a senior in high school. Her tour guide was among the first students graduating from the environment and energy resources management program.
“Listening to her talk about her experience, I loved the idea of being able to tailor my major in the field of sustainability in West Virginia,” Blair said. “I chose the Davis College because I knew it would let me take the reins on my education but still guide me and provide the mentoring I wanted.”
Blair, a WVU Foundation Scholar and Order of August inductee, will graduate this May from the Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design with her Bachelor of Science in environment and energy resources management.
What was your most valuable experience at Davis College?
“My most valuable experience is the relationships I’ve been able to make within Davis College. I certainly don’t know everyone, but at the same time, I feel as if there aren’t any strangers here. It was the kindred spirit of Davis that convinced me to go on a study abroad trip to Belize with 13 other Davis students, not knowing a single one of them. I came out of it with the most incredible memories and friendships.”
What advice do you have for current Davis College students?
“I would encourage any Davis student to explore as much as they can outside their department. Some of the best classes I’ve taken have been outside the natural resources department. It was fun to see other people knee deep in whatever their passion was. All of Davis is interdisciplinary — any class or trip you take is a good one.”
What advice do you have for high school students?
“Always make sure you have time built in to say ‘yes.’ Do your homework ahead of time so your weekend is free. Go to the organization or club meeting if a friend invites you. The best experiences you have are the ones you aren’t expecting.”
What are your future hopes and/or plans?
“After graduation, I will be attending the University of Sussex in England to get my Master of Science in Sustainable Development. I’m looking to get a Master of Business Administration the following year. I’d like to go into a career of sustainability in the private sector, investigating how ethical supply chains and sustainable materials can be incorporated into the average consumer’s life.”