Nay '23 and Molly '24

Nay '23, a Business Finance major, and Molly '24, a Biochemistry major, are bright, shining examples of Berea students who will go far and do great things after having had the experience of a Berea College education.

While speaking during the recent Great Commitments Society Day of Appreciation, Nay, who is originally from Myanmar and moved to Louisville 15 years ago, said, "I love Berea because I've learned from so many students." He added, "Each student has a story and a perspective that's so valuable. From these conversations, I've developed friendships that will last a lifetime." Nay shared, "This connection was something I yearned for since I came from a high school with students I couldn't connect with on a deeper level because of the socio-economic barriers."

Nay's story with Berea began when a Berea College representative went to his high school and talked with him about the possibility of attending.

"Berea has provided me with opportunities to advance professionally," said Nay. The College's career development and internship offices provided funding for an internship at a brewery in Louisville. "There I could observe the intricacies of managing and growing a fast start-up. I worked with individuals across different departments from marketing, operations, finance and high-level management."

This summer Nay will serve as an intern at a venture capital firm in Louisville. "I want to learn how they fund raise, screen, and monitor investments," said Nay. "I hope from that experience that I can manage my own fund and invest in Berea College and other organizations that contribute to society."

In addition to internship opportunities, Nay has benefited from studying abroad. "I've been able to study in Costa Rica where I learned about sustainable business development," said Nay. "There, I was immersed in the culture and the people, understood their values, and cared for the environment."

Molly came to Berea College from Charleston, West Virginia, and intends to become an officer in the U.S. Air Force. She grew up with two brothers in a single-parent household.

Molly places great value on her labor program experiences at the College. She worked in Facilities Management her first year and has worked as a videographer in Marketing and Communications for the past two years. She attributes the program with the development of her leadership and teamwork skills, among others. As a videographer she values opportunities to interview various faculty and staff throughout campus and the networking opportunities that provides, as well as various trips to work on field skills, and exposure to sophisticated equipment she would not otherwise have the opportunity to explore and learn. Other technical skills learned include lighting, sound, editing, coloring and troubleshooting. Most importantly, Molly said she feels that she is heard.

Molly participated in an internship last summer at West Virginia Healthright, a non-profit clinic that provides healthcare for the most vulnerable members of the Charleston community.

Molly joined Nay in speaking with donors at the Great Commitments Society Day of Appreciation, and she shared that the experience was amazing. "I felt like everyone was truly interested in my story and experiences," said Molly.

She shared with attendees, "It's easy to look nearly anywhere on campus and see your impact on this place. We really appreciate all you're able to do to make Berea a truly unique experience."

A comprehensive Berea education would not be possible without the steadfast support of alumni and friends of the College. "I want to thank you all for making Berea a reality," said Nay. "It is a gift that's appreciated greatly, and it's a gift that will keep on giving."