Malia’s Story
A proud Washingtonian from Pasco, Malia Ruud arrived at Washington State University eager to pursue both her academic goals and her love of athletics. Now a communications major on the Pullman campus, Malia is grateful for the athletic scholarship that allows her to compete at a high level while earning her degree—an opportunity she says means more than words can fully express.
During her first year at WSU, Malia focused on finding her footing as a student-athlete, balancing practices, classes, and the transition to college life. She found community as a CAB member of the Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) student-athlete organization and looks forward to becoming more involved in the years ahead, including a hoped-for role with the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.
One of Malia’s most meaningful moments as a Coug came at A Night with Cougar Athletics in Prosser, where she spoke with alumni and supporters. Experiencing the unmistakable sense of Cougar family firsthand deepened her pride in WSU and reinforced what it means to be part of something bigger.
Talking Cougs, Community, and Impact
I received an athletic scholarship, and receiving this support means so much to me. It is hard to put into words. I am forever grateful to be able to play a sport I love while earning my degree.
I was a cab member in AAPI, a club for Asian-American and Pacific Islander athletes, and we had monthly meetings, which were fun. But, it was my first year of college this last year, and I was just trying to figure things out day by day, so I was not very involved outside of sports and school, but I hope to be a part of SAAC next year, along with any other opportunities that I can take on.
Honestly, I have been proud to be a Coug throughout my whole time here, but I recently went to “A Night with Cougar Athletics” in Prosser, and I had the privilege to speak in front of and meet many different boosters and Alumni. I could just feel the family atmosphere that WSU brings, and it was a very eye-opening experience and made me proud to be a Coug.
I hope to give back to my community however I can, whether it’s leading by example, or just by always supporting WSU in any way possible.
One of my goals after graduation is to find a job in sports. WSU is helping me prepare for that goal through what I am learning and earning my degree, as well as through networking opportunities and meeting people who are actively in the workforce.
I would like the donors to know that my amazing WSU experience is because of them. I have made lifelong friends and connections through just my first year in Pullman, and I am forever thankful. I am excited for what my future holds during the rest of my time here at WSU.
You know you’re a Coug when… you start disliking the color purple.