McKenna Wireman: A Heart for Service
McKenna Wireman is a first-generation college student and graduating senior from Dwale, Kentucky, studying Biology Pre-Medicine. She first learned about Alice Lloyd College from her grandmother and fell in love with campus during her tour while college searching. She knew right away that ALC was the place she wanted to pursue her dreams.
Her decision to enter the medical field has been a lifelong aspiration. As long as she can remember, her dream has been to become a doctor and help others. McKenna has excelled academically during her walk along Purpose Road. A Presidential Scholar at ALC, she has made the President’s list twice and the Dean’s list twice. In addition to her academic excellence, McKenna is a decorated member of the College’s archery team, holding a school record for women’s compound archery and medaling in numerous tournaments. Her passion for archery began in middle school and continued through high school. When ALC added a college archery program two years ago, she knew she had to join. Competing and refining her skills alongside teammates has been a highlight of her college experience.
Beyond her studies and athletics, McKenna serves as a teacher’s assistant for Dr. Janelle Pryor as her work-study position. As a TA, she performs numerous tasks like cleaning and setting up labs and proctoring exams. She credits her work-study experience with giving her valuable, additional insight into the sciences that enhanced her learning experience.
McKenna’s dedication extends beyond campus. An active member of the Prestonsburg Church of Christ, she participates in monthly community service projects that include packing goody bags for first responders, delivering quilts to nursing home residents, and preparing meals for the sick and homebound. Her love for giving back to the community is something that defines her as a person and something that makes her proud to be an ALC student. “I love how the College serves the community and its students. The student government hosts various community service projects, such as food drives, each semester that I love participating in.”
After graduating, McKenna plans to shadow professionals at a nearby hospital to build her resume and strengthen her application for medical school. She aspires to become a dermatologist and hopes to receive support from the Gatton Winston Scholars Program, which assists graduate students financially when furthering their education. She is grateful for ALC’s commitment to helping students graduate debt-free, a benefit that will set her ahead of the curve in her journey toward medical school.
Among her favorite classes is Dr. Pryor’s Anatomy and Physiology, where she enjoyed hands-on learning through labs and dissections. She values the small class sizes and the close relationships she has built with her professors. She appreciates that she is more than just a number at ALC, that her professors see her across campus, swap greetings, and know her by name. One of her favorite memories on campus is the big snow event in 2024 when students came together for an old-fashioned snow day filled with sledding, snowball fights, and fun. Her go-to campus hangout is the Perry Campus Center, where she enjoys studying, relaxing, and playing games with her friends.
McKenna wholeheartedly recommends Alice Lloyd College to others because of the quality, character-based education offered, and the real-world preparation provided through academics and the student work program. The College has provided her with a strong education and reinforced her passion for serving others. Grateful for the friendships and opportunities that have shaped her future, she is excited for the next chapter beyond ALC.
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