Finding Purpose in the Pivot: Myah Leib's Journey to Supporting Students

Published: July 21, 2026

Author: Liz Dowell

Just a few years ago, Myah Leib ’25 arrived on campus from Casey, Illinois, uncertain if college would suit her. It wasn’t part of her plan originally.

“I definitely did not want to go to college,” Leib said. “I was a homebody. I didn’t think I would love it.”

Stepping onto campus gave Leib a fresh start. In an environment where no one knew her, she found freedom to grow and explore her identity beyond her small-town background.

Leib began by pursuing a business degree, following a family tradition in entrepreneurship. As her college journey progressed, her interests shifted.

“I thought I was going to take over the coffee shop in Casey, someday,” she said. “But I realized that wasn’t what I felt called to do.”

Her new direction grew from relationships and hands-on experiences, especially with first-year students. What started as programming support became a deeper passion: helping students transition to college life.

“I found that I really love helping students,” Leib said. “Helping them figure out that first year, that transition—it matters.”

After graduating in December, Leib faced unexpected uncertainty when her anticipated graduate assistant position changed. She began substitute teaching locally while awaiting her next step.

Clarity arrived when she was offered a part-time role in student development, providing the direction she was looking for.

“When I got the call that I could come back and work part-time, I immediately said yes,” she said. “It felt like something I had been waiting for.”

Now, Leib works on campus supporting college students while also substitute-teaching middle schoolers in nearby school districts, gaining perspective from both settings. Whether in a classroom or meeting students, her focus is on connection.

This past spring, Leib worked individually with several students who were experiencing academic challenges. Together, they developed personalized plans to help them catch up on missing coursework, improve their grades, and stay on track with assignments and deadlines.

“We also met weekly for academic check-ins, providing consistent encouragement, accountability, and support throughout the semester,” Leib stated.

“I want students to know that they can ask for help,” she added. “We’re here for them—not just academically, but as people.”

That mindset reflects the growth she experienced during her own time in Greenville. Once self-described as quiet and reserved, Leib now finds herself in a role built on conversation, encouragement, and presence.

“I didn’t think I’d be someone who worked closely with people every day,” she said. “But GU helped me come out of my shell.”

Her journey also deepened her faith, moving from routine belief to intentional ownership. In a space where students are challenged to choose their own path, Leib learned to make her faith her own.

Today, she carries this intentionality into her work—dedicated to meeting students where they are and guiding them as they find their own paths, just as she did.

“I don’t need a title to make an impact,” Leib said. “I just want to be someone students know they can come to.”

For Leib, the unexpected path led her to a purposeful calling—empowering and supporting students as they navigate college and beyond.