Four years as a Foundation Scholar allowed graduating senior Breellen Fleming to realize she can pursue multiple dreams simultaneously. As an intermedia major with minors in art history and religious studies, she was able to incorporate a sense of historical continuity into the artistic works she created. In addition to her studies, she also explored new areas of curiosity like Arabic and kickboxing.
Fleming was heavily involved in Baptist Campus Ministry, a local student ministry group, where she served on their leadership team and media team for three years, and even lead a small Bible study group for two years. She was also a regular participant in WVU’s Conversation Club, a club that connects international students and native English speakers from the Morgantown community.
“Being a Foundation scholar has been an incredible experience for me,” she said. “I actually have really enjoyed that feeling of duty as it has driven me to work harder to become a better student and a better friend to those around me. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity I have been given because it has allowed me to mature into a more well-rounded adult.”
Fleming’s favorite memory comes from her travels to Chile and Bolivia during a Study Abroad trip with the College of Creative Arts. On this trip, she was able to see the Andes Mountains and experience an entirely different culture from her own.
“One of the most beautiful sights we were able to see was the sunrise over a calm shallow lake on the Bolivian salt flats. The ground essentially became a perfect mirror of the sky and it looked otherworldly.”
During her time as a Foundation Scholar, Fleming managed a small graphic design business, published a children’s book, became an active member of the Christian community, and made friendships to last a lifetime. She also co-founded Elah Media with fellow WVU student Kayla Starcher in 2020, which is a company designed to provide Christian organizations with consulting and design services.
Fleming hopes to keep the momentum going by pursuing a Master of Arts in theology from Asbury Theological Seminary beginning in the fall. She also plans to continue running her small business, publish another children’s book and continue to grow Elah Media.