By: Savannah O’Shields

As the final weeks of the spring semester wind down, the senior class at West Virginia Wesleyan College is preparing to close one chapter and begin another. For the Class of 2025, this moment carries even deeper meaning—they began their college journey during a time of great uncertainty, navigating hybrid learning and socially distanced events in the wake of a global pandemic. Despite the challenges, these students adapted, grew, and found ways to thrive. Now, with graduation just around the corner, they’re taking time to reflect on their experiences—what they’ve learned, how far they’ve come, and what they’ll carry with them as they prepare to leave the orange and black behind.

Building a Home Away From Home

College isn’t just about academics—it’s about finding community. For many Wesleyan seniors, their favorite memories are tied to the people and places that made Buckhannon feel like home.

“My favorite memory is being surrounded by the close-knit communities I found through Kappa Alpha Order and Alpha Delta Pi,” senior Breanna Warner said. “They gave me a sense of connection and stability during college. I really found a home within those groups, and the support I felt helped me stay grounded and grow.”

Talia Cooper, also a graduating senior, echoed this sentiment, pointing to one particular semester as a standout.

“I have so many favorite memories from my time at Wesleyan, but Fall ’23 stands out the most,” Cooper shared. “Being crowned Homecoming Queen and Greek Woman of the Year in the same semester was incredibly touching. Knowing that the school I love so much recognized me and saw my potential meant the world to me. I’ll be forever grateful for both of those honors.”

For many students, traditions like Homecoming, Greek Week, Wesleyan Weekend, and campus events created spaces for connection and celebration. Dorm room late-night talks, impromptu study groups, and trips to local coffee shops or Sheetz also became meaningful routines—reminders that sometimes the simplest moments leave the biggest impact.

Lessons That Shaped Their Lives

As they prepare to leave, students are taking stock of what they’ve learned—not just in their majors, but about life, leadership, and themselves.

“Growth isn’t always evident as accomplishments; sometimes it’s gradual, quiet, and difficult,” Warner said. “I’ve learned to appreciate the small victories and to recognize that personal growth doesn’t always have to be loud. It’s okay to move forward at your own pace, and it’s even better when you have people to lean on. Use your support system around you, both in times of need and success.”

Cooper shared how Wesleyan helped her grow not only as a student, but as a person with purpose.

“One lesson I’ll carry with me is to always lead with compassion,” Cooper said. “Whether in nursing or in life, showing kindness and empathy can make the biggest difference. Wesleyan helped shape me into a leader who listens first, and that’s something I’ll take with me wherever I go.”

Other seniors echoed similar themes—learning to balance responsibilities, advocate for themselves, manage mental health, and take pride in their accomplishments. Whether it was through athletic commitments, internships, student government, campus jobs, or leadership positions in Greek Life, the journey was one of transformation.

Words of Wisdom for Future Bobcats

Before they graduate, the Class of 2025 has some advice for the students who will continue the Wesleyan tradition.

“Spend so much time on self-improvement that you have no time to criticize others,” Warner advised. “Focus on your own journey. There’s always something to learn and work on, and the more energy you put into that, the more you’ll grow.”

Cooper encouraged underclassmen to step outside of their comfort zones and make the most of every opportunity.

“Get involved early and don’t be afraid to step into leadership roles, even if you feel nervous or unsure,” she said. “Some of my most meaningful experiences came from saying ‘yes’ when opportunities came my way. Trust your gut, lean on your support system, and make the most of your time—it flies by!”

For many seniors, Wesleyan offered a space where they could try new things, make mistakes, and discover their passions. That freedom to explore—and the support to keep going when things got tough—left a lasting mark.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

As the Class of 2025 prepares to turn their tassels, emotions are running high. There’s excitement for what lies ahead, but also a deep sense of gratitude for what they’re leaving behind.

Wesleyan, for these seniors, was more than just a college. It was a place that pushed them to grow, challenged their perspectives, and supported their dreams. From friendships that feel more like family to professors who became mentors, the impact of these four years is immeasurable.

Though saying goodbye is never easy, the graduates are ready. With diplomas in hand and lessons in their hearts, they leave campus not just with memories, but with momentum.

As they scatter across the country to begin careers, pursue graduate studies, or simply take the next step in their journey, one thing is certain: the spirit of Wesleyan will go with them.

And while the campus will welcome a new class in the fall, the Class of 2025 will always be part of the Wesleyan legacy—one built on resilience, community, and the courage to grow.

Photo from: gsb.touro.edu