NC West Virginia News

Mary Lu Adams, a graduate student in counseling at West Virginia University, has faced numerous challenges on her journey to a new career. Originally from Wheeling, Adams studied psychology at Bethany College and earned her master's degree from Pitt before working in higher education and the nonprofit sector. However, she realized during the pandemic that she needed more direct interaction with people.

“I realized during the pandemic that I needed to be around people, not just working remotely,” Adams says. “I needed to get back closer to what I originally loved doing, which was helping people.”

Her decision to change careers was influenced by her own counseling experiences and interactions with a campus counselor at Wheeling Jesuit University. Despite being in her mid-30s, Adams decided it was time for a change.

“It was scary, but I thought, if I’m going to do it, now’s the time,” she explains. “It’s really hard to leave a full-time income...I am very lucky that I have a wonderful support system—my parents, my boyfriend, my friends."

Adams chose WVU's counseling program for its reputation and proximity to home. Her initial anxiety about returning as an older student soon faded as she thrived in her classes. However, on March 15, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

“I was determined not to take time off,” she says. “I wanted to finish with the cohort I started with.”

The program's intensity added pressure but also provided community support.

“The faculty and my cohort were amazing,” she shares. “They were supportive from day one.”

Adams remained open about her struggles during classes and used them as learning opportunities for herself and others.

“It was raw...But I wanted to be able to help other people," Adams says.

Her openness highlighted her determination to continue despite hardships.