Benjamin White, a senior Biomedical Science major and member of the Waynesburg University soccer team, has left a lasting impression on the Waynesburg University campus among his teachers and teammates. 

White came in as a freshman during the height of COVID-19, making it hard for him to find community at first due to everyone separated and wearing masks. White said that the biggest challenge he faced at Waynesburg was coming out of his shell during the first few years. With there being not many clubs open on campus, the main community he had was the soccer team, which helped him and provided him with a group of friends during that lonely time.

“I was pretty shy and reserved, but since I’ve been here, I think I’ve come out of my shell and grown in confidence. Leaving now, that’s good, as I’m going into the professional world. To have that confidence and be able to build relationships,” White said. 

Dr. Tracy Dohn-Cummins, White’s advisor and assistant professor of biology, said that White was quiet as a freshman and a lot less likely to reach out but was still diligent. Now, as a senior, he’s a lot better at speaking up and giving different, well thought out, viewpoints.

White said that Waynesburg University helped him grow in his faith throughout his four years, and Dohn-Cummins attested that his work ethic reflected this.

 “Ben’s really easy to work with, he’s a really great student, so he’s really on top of his work and energized to do it and to do it well. He usually comes prepared to meetings, he knows what he wants to ask, he knows when he needs to ask questions, and when he can kind of take the lead and do it himself…So he’s been a pleasure to work with as his research advisor as well as his academic advisor,” Dohn-Cummins said.

During his years at Waynesburg University, White was heavily involved in soccer, a member of the Student Senate and a leader of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. White now leaves with one parting piece of advice for the current and future students at Waynesburg University.

 “The people make the experience, so find your group of people and hold onto that. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to new people. And don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially from professors,” White said.

“He exemplifies the pillars of the university, not only is he an excellent student but he also showcases his faith and as a leader in some of the Christian organizations on campus and as an athlete and being a well-rounded individual and really giving back to his community,” Dohn-Cummins said when reflecting on her time with White.