Ben Golden '27
““Giving is important because it enables the recipient to completely focus on their studies and on the things that matter most to them rather than them have to be weighed down by expensive costs,””
West Virginia University student Ben Golden, of Berkeley Springs, is studying music business and industry with a second major in music composition. Drawn to both the creative and technical sides of music, he hopes to begin a career in film scoring and the broader film industry after graduation.
A pianist and member of Mon Hill Records, Golden has already begun gaining hands-on experience in music production and collaboration while balancing his academics. He is also a recipient of the Neil S. Bucklew Scholarship, which has played a key role in expanding his academic path and creative opportunities.
As a Bucklew Scholar, Golden found he could study more than general business: He could fine tune his studies down to a music business and industry degree. Through donor support, Golden discovered he could do even more. Scholarship funding helped ease financial pressures and gave him the flexibility to take on a second major, enroll in additional courses, and dedicate more time to his creative work.
“Giving is important because it enables the recipient to completely focus on their studies and on the things that matter most to them rather than them have to be weighed down by expensive costs,” Golden said.
Outside of music and academics, Golden is involved with the University’s club track team and maintains a wide range of interests, including lifting, running, basketball, guitar, and skateboarding. His balance of discipline and creativity aid in shaping his approach to both school and his artistic goals.
As he continues to develop his skills and build connections in the industry, Golden remains focused on composing for film and finding opportunities to turn his passion for music into a professional career.