WKU News

For Adrianna Lein, college was more than just a change of scenery—it was a full-circle moment of stepping into her own identity. A first-year student from Franklin, Tennessee, Adrianna came to WKU following in the footsteps of her older sister. But while their paths may overlap, Adrianna has been intentional about shaping her own experience on the Hill.

“My older sister had a big influence on me choosing WKU,” Adrianna explains. “She spoke so highly of the Mahurin Honors College. It brought out a different side of her—she became more outgoing, more connected. Seeing that made me want something similar for myself.” But Adrianna was also keenly aware of the challenges of sharing not just a campus, but also a space within the same academic programs and student organizations. “You can’t have everything shared,” she says. “There needs to be some individuality.”

She found that individuality in the newsroom.

This semester, Adrianna joined the staff of the College Heights Herald, WKU’s award-winning student newspaper. What started as a simple exploratory meeting with the former sports editor turned into an unexpected opportunity to step into the world of sports journalism. “I thought I was going in to ask questions about what the job was like,” she laughs. “But he treated it like an interview—and eventually, I ended up joining.”

With years of personal experience playing sports, Adrianna brings a unique and deeply human lens to her reporting. “People talk about athletes like they’re just players, but I see them as people first. I know what it takes to perform, and I want to write in a way that honors that.”

Despite being new to journalism, Adrianna now serves as assistant sports editor—a leap she acknowledges with both pride and perspective. “I was the least experienced person on the sports staff. But I’m proud I got the opportunity. I don’t know yet if I want to move up the ladder or take a step back later on to deepen my experience. Either way, I want to grow at the right pace.”

Academically, Adrianna is pursuing a major in business economics with a minor in journalism writing and a certificate in sport media and communication. A conversation with a professional sports writer helped her clarify this mix. “He shared that while his journalism degree had value, most of what prepared him for the field came through hands-on experience in the newsroom,” she recalls. “That really stuck with me. I realized I could keep learning journalism through doing—and keep my business degree as a flexible tool.”

Outside the classroom, Adrianna’s summer plans reflect her continued love for sports and community. She’ll return to work as a coach at local youth sports camps in her hometown—a tradition that grounds her and reminds her of her own journey. “It’s where I grew up, where I learned everything. I love going back.”

Adrianna is also mindful about balancing her passion with sustainability. “I’m excited for everything I’m doing, especially joining HonorsToppers next year, but I don’t want to burn myself out early. I’ve been learning from others how to find that balance—how to commit to things that fill you up, not drain you.”

Reflecting on her first year, Adrianna notes how much she’s grown. “I came from a tight-knit town. I’d lived in the same house all my life. College let me loosen the reins and figure out who I am without all the old context.” Whether it’s discovering new music, experimenting with fashion, or building friendships outside of familiar circles, Adrianna feels more in tune with the person she’s becoming. “I’ve caught myself thinking, ‘Wow, I am becoming the person I want to be.’ And that’s been the most rewarding part.”