Striking gold can sometimes take multiple swings. For Jayda Fyock, it took just one.

“Waynesburg was the first and only college I toured. I had come here with my mom, and after we had got into the car, I told her that Waynesburg is my school,” Fyock said. “I was looking for a small school because I like having small and personal classes and relationships with my professors. But the selling point for me was the strong Christian aspect the community here brings, and how welcoming and nice the people are here.”

Even though she found the exact school she wanted on the first try, Fyock admitted it does not mean that the rest of her schooling was a breeze.

“College is definitely a whole different ball game than high school. It was hard adjusting to the school, work, activity and social life that comes with being a college student. Being involved is a blessing, but comes with its challenges. I have been involved in the theater department all four years here, and music for three. It is truly a rewarding experience, but it is a challenge having to balance the responsibilities of them as well.”

Although the balance had become a struggle at times, her ways of staying ahead and being the best person she can be caught the eye of Melinda Walls, associate professor of business administration and interim provost at Waynesburg University.

“Jayda is an excellent student and an even better person. She works hard in everything that she does. She is smart, creative and a problem solver. She is a gifted singer, actress and speaker, but you would never know that when you first meet her because she is quiet and humble. Jayda’s strong faith is exhibited in the way she treats others and lives her life,” Walls said.

Fyock gives credit back to the professors of the Department of Business Administration, with that being one of the reasons she fell in love with said department and Waynesburg University as a whole.

“The professors in the business department are truly what makes me love it the most. All of them are passionate about what they are teaching and truly love getting to know their students. They make the classes fun and interesting and make me even more motivated to go to class and learn,” Fyock said.

As for what is next for Fyock, the immediate future still seems up in the air, although there is one ambitious idea in mind.

“It is still unclear exactly what my path has in store for me yet. My biggest goal after graduating is to start and run my own business. Multiple ideas have been floating in my head, but the most prevalent one is to operate a bookstore/coffee shop combo,” Fycok said.

Before Fyock departs, Walls leaves a special message for her.

“Jayda, continue to share your gifts with others. Trust yourself and trust in God to guide you. I know you will do great things, and I can’t wait to see what comes next for you.”