Online programs can be daunting since there are few in-person interactions with classmates and instructors, but for Alexis Rogers and Leah Schoolcraft it led to a lifelong friendship.
Alex and Leah, both IMC ‘22 graduates, met in the program which kicked off a quick and close friendship between the two. The friendship which started over Twitter through the WVU IMC page quickly surpassed a professional connection to a true friendship complete with daily text message and video calls.
“It was really incredible to have the support like Leah said. We started asking questions and if we were confused about something or needed to sort of bounce ideas off of each other, it was really helpful to have that and has still been helpful to support each other throughout the program, especially when you're having those days where you're just really struggling to get through,” Alexis said. “Having that motivation that's one call away, there will have been times where we've literally just sat on FaceTime doing our assignments where we're not talking just for that moral support.”
In addition to one another, both Leah and Alexis found support in the instructors in the program. After working together to work through some concepts and ideas, Leah and Alexis would reach out to instructors who are currently in the industry for guidance and insights. In their experience, the instructors want to help and enjoy sharing some of their wisdom with students in the program.
When asked about advice for incoming students, the pair gave a resounding answer — just do it.
“Take the leap,” Leah said. “You never know who you're going to meet. You might meet your best friend, and just don't be afraid to try something new and challenge yourself.”
Take the leap. You never know who you're going to meet. You might meet your best friend, and just don't be afraid to try something new and challenge yourself. Leah Schoolcraft