LYDIA NICOLAI
Hometown: Woodbridge, VA
Major/Degree: Bachelor's degree in Environmental Geoscience
Graduating Year: 2023
Sport: WVU Rowing
What accomplishments has your scholarship helped you accomplish? In the classroom, in the community and/or in your sport?
My scholarship granted me the financial liberation to prioritize rowing and my academics while growing to become the person I wanted to become. I was able to accomplish academic excellence in the classroom and become the best athlete that I could be. My measurable accomplishments gave me confidence to externally pursue things outside my comfort zone, to be a researcher, a science communicator, and most recently, a newly accepted graduate student.
How will the education you are receiving benefit you after you leave WVU?
My education and research experiences at WVU has given me the tools I need to continue learning to become a Geographer. With my education from WVU, I am leaving to earn my Masters in Geography from Virginia Tech. I will forever benefit from the education I received and connections I made as a Mountaineer.
How have Mountaineer Athletic Club donors impacted your journey as a student-athletes? What would you tell a donor if you were to meet them?
The Mountaineer Athletic Club donors have allowed me to earn a college degree while achieving things far beyond what I imagined for myself. They granted me opportunities to become the best rower and student that I could be. I would tell a donor, thank you for supporting the dreams and efforts of passionate scholastic athletes. Your support creates pathways and opportunities for many student athletes.
What is your favorite WVU memory or moment?
My favorite WVU memory is from my team training trip to Lake Lure, NC. It is always special to get out of town to travel and train with teammates. I am grateful I was able to experience it once before I graduate.
