Amna Hague

I graduated with my master's degree in 2023 and began working with the West Virginia Perinatal Partnership shortly afterward. That same year, I joined the WV Generation Fellowship, where I first learned about the First Ascent program. At the time, I was working as a contract employee, and because First Ascent required full-time employment, I didn't think I was eligible to apply. So I waited until the following year when I was promoted to a full-time position with the Partnership to apply. I wish I knew I didn't have to wait! 

I've really enjoyed being a part of the First Ascent program and the community that has come with it. Having grown up here, I would really like to stay and see my future grow. A lot of the people I grew up with, and went to school with, have left the state. So getting to build community through the various Ascend programs has been great. 

The Basecamp workspace has also been a tremendous resource. Although the Partnership's main office is in Charleston, many of us work remotely from Morgantown. Basecamp has given us a convenient place to meet in person, collaborate more effectively, and work alongside WVU student interns.

I've also enjoyed participating in First Ascent's mentorship program. It's been wonderful getting to know Christie from WVU's Rural Health Program and learning from her experiences and insights, particularly because of her close work with healthcare students.