Liz Sexton

Accounting and Finance

An Accounting and Finance Senior, originally from Williamstown, WV.

What has been your favorite class, class project and experience learning outside the classroom?

In Spring 2021, I took a class called Global Consulting through the Honors College. The class coordinated with the University of Munster in Germany for this experience. I had the opportunity to work in teams to consult three different businesses on international expansion. During our last project, we worked with the German students to advise a business in Germany by creating a United States industry outlook. I enjoyed meeting students and industry professionals who work in a different culture. The course also focused on materials related to international communication skills. I know if I work with another international team that I will have experiences to help the team succeed.

What advice do you wish you had heard as a Freshman?

I wish someone had helped me realize that all freshmen are more alike than they realize. Most freshmen get homesick at some point. Prior to freshman year, I was scared that I would be lonely when I came to college. I knew being away from my family would be hard. My family is very close, so I thought that others may not feel the same way I did. Around week four, many of the people in my dorm realized that it officially became the longest amount of time that they had been away from home. It was nice to realize that we all were united by the same experiences and emotions. Also, everyone is kind of shy about going to their first student organization meeting. Just remember that everyone is feeling a bit timid, too. Student organizations exist for students to meet each other, so do not be afraid to try one as a freshman. You might just meet some new best friends. Above all, know that you are not alone in your fears and emotions.

What impact do you hope to have at WVU in the future?

I hope to leave a legacy at West Virginia University that others can expand upon after I am gone. I want those whom I mentored to be able to continue the work that I started and become better people because of our interactions. Here are three ways that I am already making an impact at West Virginia University. I helped our Chambers Ambassador program continue to form relationships with international partners during the pandemic when travel was minimal. I helped Women in Business continue for a second year by becoming the first officer to join the club founders as part of their officer team. I helped the Appalachian Prison Book Project in Morgantown send more books to prisoners by collecting over 1,500 books in commonly requested genres.