Meet Abigail Nelson: Academic Advisor

by | Apr 15, 2025 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

Staff Senate has launched an ‘Exploring the WNC Mountains’ series to celebrate the 2024-2025 Campus Theme: WNC Mountain Life. This series aims to honor the vibrancy, resilience, and spirit of the Western North Carolina mountains, along with its people, wildlife, and local businesses, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Meet Abigail Nelson: Academic Advisor

Abigail Nelson has been an integral part of Western Carolina University (WCU) since September 2019. As an Academic Advisor, she guides students across four diverse majors: Communication, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Parks and Recreation Management, and Social Work. In addition to her advising role, Abigail teaches USI 130 in the Fall and LC 101 in both the Fall and Spring semesters. Her dedication to the students, staff, and faculty at WCU is evident in hergratitude for the community she works with.

Life in the Mountains of North Carolina

Abigail has called the mountains of North Carolina home for the past 5.5 years. Her journey to the mountains began when she accepted a position as the International Admissions Counselor in what is now the Office of Global Engagement. After three years in that role, she transitioned to her current position in the Advising Center.

 

From Philadelphia to Cullowhee

Before moving to the mountains, Abigail lived in Philadelphia, where she earned her master’s degree in Higher Education from Penn. Despite the stark contrast between Philly and Cullowhee, the mountains remind her of Upstate New York, where she grew up. Abigail’s passion for working with college students and her love for nature made WCU the perfect fit for her. She appreciates the open and friendly nature of the community.

Favorite Local Outdoor Spots

One of Abigail’s favorite local outdoor spots is the Jackson County Greenway in Cullowhee. This place holds many cherished memories and conversations with friends. She finds joy in the small things, like spotting a newt, mushroom, or butterfly. Abigail also loves Waterrock Knob, which offers stunning views and a sense of tranquility.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
As a vegetarian foodie, secondhand shopper, and pop culture enthusiast, Abigail has a few local favorites to share:
  • Sylva: Dalaya’s Gaeng Garee is a cozy, must-try meal. Mad Batter’s Beyond Burger and White Moon’s Cali Dream sandwich are also top picks, with great gluten-free options available. Also, City Lights is a wonderful bookstore for both new and used books. If they don’t have what you’re looking for, they can order it for you.
  • Franklin: Reach for Bargains is her favorite thrift store, with many clothing items priced at just $1. The Humane Society Thrift Shop is another great spot.
  • Asheville: Orbit DVD offers a fantastic collection of new and used DVDs, VHS, video games, and more. Abigail has enjoyed some of the best shows of her life at the Orange Peel and Grey Eagle venues.
Keeping the Mountains Beautiful
Abigail is a firm believer that inner work always extends outward. Dr. Chris Uhl, a dear professor and mentor of hers, espoused the idea that we cannot begin to care for the environment unless we care for ourselves first. To keep the mountains beautiful, we might search for and realize the very same beauty within ourselves.