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James Ferris
- Current City
"Philadelphia, PA"
- Area of Study
"Exercise Science - Fitness Specialist"
- Graduation Year
"2001"
- Current Occupation
"Strength Coach/Performance Coach"
- Why did you choose WCU?
"I was drawn to the program from my involvement in high school athletics. I wanted
to stay somewhat close to home but be far enough away to have independence."
- Did you complete an internship while at WCU?
"Yes. I was hired actually by WCU graduate assistant Holly Hill for an internship
at Summit Sports Training Center. Summit was owned by sports agent Steve Mountain
and it catered to a broad spectrum of clientele. I was able to make great advances
in my career at an early age which included the role of strength and conditioning
coach for the Philadelphia 76ers."
- Advice for graduating seniors in your field?
"Your first job is probably not your career job and that is okay. Be open to opportunities
and explore all options until you find something that makes you truly happy."
- Is there anything you would do differently?
"Unlike the student's in the Kinesiology program today, I would have liked to intern
and be exposed to more career path possibilities. I was lucky to find success right
away but I know many who struggled to find where they best fit whether its in private
sector, commercial, or team athletics."
- Best memory of your time at WCU?
"The connection with classmates and teachers that I still have relationships with
today. The impact that Dr. Stevens and Coach Bonsall had on me as a student and coach."
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