Senior Acrobatics and Tumbling Hilltopper, Alavia Anderson, graduated from West Liberty University this spring (2021) after completing a dual degree in DEAP Biology and Microbiology.

Anderson is from New Martinsville, W. Va. and is a third-generation student athlete at West Liberty University. She spent a lot of time on the Hill and around WLU athletic events growing up. “My family has been very influential with the university and athletics on campus, so they heavily influenced my decision to pursue an academic and athletic career at West Liberty,” explained Anderson.

Anderson has been an important member of the acrobatics and tumbling program since she arrived at West Liberty as a freshman. Since then she has been part of record breaking routines and earned a spot on the All-MEC Second Team this spring.

Anderson enjoys hanging out with friends, working out and crocheting when she is not busy with acrobatics and tumbling or studying. Some of her favorite foods include chocolate, oranges, blueberries, pepperoni pizza and cheese.

Anderson shared that she is thankful for her time at West Liberty and is going to miss the atmosphere of campus once she graduates. “I’m going to miss the family-like setting at West Liberty. I became very close with the students and faculty here, so not being able to see them every day will be difficult,” Anderson said.

When young adults go off to college, many find who they are in the process and learn valuable lessons throughout the four-year journey. In Anderson’s case, it only took her three years to complete her dual degree; however, she still learned life lessons she will carry with her beyond the Hilltop. Anderson shared, “Some valuable lessons that I’ve learned from my experience as a student athlete at WLU is to be kind to everyone, always try your best, don’t give up when things get difficult and make the most of the time that you have with certain people in a specific environment.”

Andersons wants people to know that all of her successes in both academics and athletics were “done through the Glory of God.” Anderson shared she has always been a faithful person. “I incorporated that [her faith] into my activities at West Liberty by praying with my teammates and classmates before meets and tests. I praised the Lord in my successes and in my failures,” said Anderson.

Upon graduation from WLU, Anderson plans to continue her education at West Virginia University in a graduate certificate program; then, attend dental school and an orthodontic residency. “Overall, my goal is to work as an orthodontist,” shared Anderson.

The Trumpet Staff wishes Anderson the best as she continues her education at WVU.

Any questions regarding the information provided in this profile piece on student athlete, Alavia Anderson, should be directed to Annalise Murphy at [email protected].