Shannon Smith (SS): What is your year and major?
Vannah Lusk (VL): Junior Exercise Physiology Major
SS: What are your aspirations for after college?
VL: Medical School and then hopefully an oncological surgeon.
SS: How long have you known you wanted to be the Mountaineer?
VL: Since I met Natalie Tennant at the Capital my senior year. When I was in high school, I used to sport a morph suit and a tutu, leading my cheering section, so I’ve always been a pretty hype individual.
SS: What was the auditioning and training process like?
VL: It was nerve wracking, especially since it was my first time. I had to write like 5 essays with my application, do an interview, and finally the top 4 did a cheer off at a basketball game! It was fun, but I lost a lot of sleep.
SS: What types of events do you attend?
VL: Anywhere from sporting events to fairs, visiting schools and doing events for the university! Lots of kids and incoming students
SS: What is your favorite part about being the Mountaineer?
VL: The kids definitely. They make me feel like a million bucks. We read, play basketball, and just talk about life. I’ve learned so much from them.
SS: How has this experience been for you thus far?
VL: A dream!!! I legit have to pinch myself sometimes to ensure it is real. Like I’m the fourth woman to EVER wear the buckskins! It’s so amazing!
SS: How do you think this position will benefit your future career goals?
VL: I’ve learned so much about people in this role. I’m better at feeding off people and noticing their moods. Being a doctor, you really have to be in tuned to others that you are taking care of and working with. This has definitely made me more personable.
SS: What do you think makes the WVU sports atmosphere and fan base so special compared to other universities?
VL: We are a resilient bunch. We never give up. That’s what’s so great about the fan base. Whether you are watching soccer, volleyball, or basketball, every Mountaineer fan gives their team 100%. That’s easy to feed off of.
SS: How has being the Mountaineer changed your life?
VL: Oh man, I can’t put that into words. It’s definitely made me more humble. Throughout the process of getting/being the Mountaineer, I’ve had to rely on my family, friends, God and administration to make my life work. It takes a village for sure. However, it has also made me more confident. I mean, how could I get nervous for a Biochemistry test when I’ve cheered in front of hundreds of people?
SS: What is your favorite part about Morgantown or West Virginia as a whole?
VL: The people. We are truly a family. You won’t find more solid, interesting, and passionate folks! Everyone is so willing to help each other. There’s no place I’d rather be!