MOUNTAINEER SPOTLIGHT: WVU student charts course toward music industry career
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For Audrey Hasley, a junior at West Virginia University, there was never a doubt she belonged in the music industry -- although she did question where exactly she'd fit in.
She wasn't interested in performing or becoming an instructor, which, growing up in Martinsburg before moving to Morgantown in high school, seemed to be the only realistic option in the career field.
"My favorite part of music is the community," she said. "I've always known I could be a part of a community that makes sure the people who enjoy being on stage can do what they do really well."
Hasley's parents doubled as her middle school choir and band directors, so a shared love of music and performance developed from a strong foundation at home.
In high school, she took a mentorship class that introduced her to Joshua Swiger, director of the WVU College of Creative Arts and Media music business and industry program.
The class allowed her to shadow Swiger during Session Band practices throughout her senior year, giving her a better idea of how much goes on behind the curtain.
"There's genuine care not only for us as students, but for us as professionals," she said. "I haven't met another professor that celebrates student success the way Josh does and it's wonderful."
Entering her third year in the program, she said the music business and industry program continues to guide her toward incredible people and opportunities, like a recent internship in Nashville.
Hasley, and fellow music business and industry majors Jarett McHale and Matteo Pandolfi, interned for the spring 2026 Country Radio Seminar gaining unique perspectives and experiences from different aspects of the industry.
Looking back on her week in the capital of country music, Hasley said her internship was one of the best experiences she's had the opportunity to be a part of.
Hasley said she's learned that it can take a lot to be successful in the industry, including consistent marketing of valuable skill sets to keep your name out there.
"Knowing somebody can get you in the door, but what you know and bring to the team is how you stay there," Hasley said. "A huge part of my major is networking, but if I don't have the skill set to contribute to that team in the ways that they're looking for, my name is not staying on their desk."
Hasley said she also believes that the tools she's stacking throughout her time at WVU will be an asset to influencers at a time where social media popularity has more influence than ever.
"An influencer who's blowing up quick may not have the knowledge to stay successful in the industry, but they could bring in a team of individuals with degrees like mine. That team can support them and continue to help them grow in an industry that otherwise could eat them alive."
As a section leader and mellophone player for the Mountaineer Marching Band, Hasley still gets to make music as part of an ensemble. Performing, combined with her love for the program, passionate mentors, and the community around her, has brought her closer to finding her place.
She said she envisions a future as a venue manager or operator, working to create memorable experiences for those in the crowd and the ones on stage.
"WVU is a great place to follow your path and a great place to change your mind because there are so many resources and opportunities for you to learn and grow. This is an environment made for figuring it out and that's a blessing."