PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Jan. 26, 2024) – Wesley Walsh is a senior chemical engineering major at Prairie View A&M University. She has worked hard to balance her educational responsibilities with the demands of being a part of the Black Fox dance line with the Marching Storm.
Wesley started as a competitive dancer from a very young age and has many accomplishments. She performed on America’s Got Talent with a competitive dance team and made it to the quarter-finals. She was also selected to be a part of the nationally known Tiger Girls dance team at Louisiana State University.
But for her, PVAMU was always home. Wesley is a legacy student; her mother is a successful PVAMU chemical engineering graduate. She knew that particular curriculum would require a lot of time, but she still wanted to pursue it.
So far, she has managed both avenues well and has been an integral part of each highly acclaimed program.
What made you want to be a chemical engineer?
I’ve always been a curious person. I always want to know why things are the way they are. In high school, I showed an aptitude for chemistry, so my mom introduced me to her chemical engineering friends from work. I was inspired by how different all of their job roles were. I’ve been a happy Chemical Engineering major ever since!
How long have you been dancing?
I started dancing at about 3 or 4 years old and haven’t stopped since! I was in competitive dance from ages 5 to 19. My poor parents!
What is the best thing about being a Black Fox?
The best things about being a Black Fox to me are 1) being able to learn and perform a new style of dance and 2) being a teammate! I love having a goal and working towards it with the other Real Ladies!
How has your dance tenure prepared you for life after school?
Dance has taught me dedication, perseverance, responsibility, and teamwork. When I’m down, it provides a healthy creative outlet. I’m forever grateful to all my coaches, directors, and teachers for the lessons and well-placed tough love.
How has PVAMU prepared you to transition from college to a working environment?
PV has been so good to me. The alumni network is strong, and I’ve already connected with former Panthers at the company I’ll be working for after graduation this spring. I think this network will always remind me of my roots, be supportive, and encourage me to give back.
This story originally appeared on pvamu.edu/marchingstorm.
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