Cole Kocher

You may have noticed some newer faces in advising around WVU, and Cole Kocher is one of them.  Cole advises the students in Sport Management, Sport & Exercise Psychology, and Coaching & Performance Science. But he also has the very challenging role of advising all student athletes for the College of Applied Human Sciences, meaning he effectively has to be an expert in every major within the college.  Cole’s work encompasses NCAA certification, ensuring coordination with the WVU Athletics Student Athlete Development Office, and sometimes working nontraditional hours to accommodate an athlete’s demanding performance schedule.

It may come as no surprise, then, that Cole comes to advising by way of a background in coaching.  “I have always loved being a part of the developmental process,” he notes.  “I enjoy helping others to continuously improve and reach their goals, and being an adviser allows me to do just that!”  Cole tries to be a positive force for his students in their interactions and as they grow into professionals.

Although Cole has only been advising for the college for about a year, he has also already made a positive impression on his team.  “He is such a light in the office and doesn’t ever seem to have a bad day,” Betsy Robbins, Assistant Director for Advising and Retention, says.  “His energy and lightheartedness have had such a powerful influence on the entire college.”

Encouraging students to get out of their comfort zone and meet new people has also led Cole to develop several events, such as the 1stannual Cornhole tournament at the CAHS Fall Celebration, an OSS Fantasy Football Pick’em league, an OSS fall tailgate and a social event for the Student Success team downtown.

But it isn’t all fun and games for students.  Cole’s best piece of advice includes: “Go to class!”