Telina Boyles, a
Bachelor of Science in nursing major from Parkersburg, W.Va., has been
presented with the Catamounts Climb Higher award at West Virginia University
Potomac State College. WVU PSC Interim President Paul Kreider presented the
award.
Telina Boyles, a Bachelor of Science in nursing major from Parkersburg, W.Va., has been presented with the Catamounts Climb Higher award at West Virginia University Potomac State College.
Climb Higher recipients are recognized for their ability to bounce back despite encountering obstacles, for overcoming challenges, and for staying the course. Recipients are also recognized for their outstanding work ethic, kindness, and positive attitude. Although this award is not based on GPA, recipients must be in good academic standing.
Boyles currently serves as president of the Black Student Alliance, works in the PSC DEI office, is a member of the Diversity Peer Academy, and participates in the Student Ambassador Internship program.
Additionally, Boyles participates in the Unum Academy through the E Pluribus Unum Fund, an equity-based internship program for all Southern States. Boyles will be paired with a nonprofit this summer in an equity focus of her choosing, for a paid internship. She is the first West Virginian to be a part of this internship program.
“One of the biggest challenges I faced was adapting to my spring semester classes. Although my fall classes challenged me, the topics came easy. This was not the case for the spring classes; they have truly pushed me to become a better student,” Boyles said. “Being far from family was challenging as well but has also taught me many life skills.”
Boyles stated that the PSC community, including staff, faculty and students have supported her through some rough patches. Along with available resources to help her succeed, people have gone above and beyond to help her.
“Shannon Meek has supported and mentored me during my time at Potomac State College. She encouraged me to get involved with clubs and activities, and also hired me to work in the DEI office through the Federal Work Study program,” Boyles said.
After graduating from Potomac State with her BSN, Boyles stated that she may be interested in serving as a traveling nurse but has also considered continuing her education to become a certified registered nurse anesthetist.
“If I could offer advice to incoming students, it would be to get involved in as many programs and activities as you can. PSC isn't a large campus, which I like, and on-campus events allow students to meet many people while also making lifelong friends,” Boyles said.