Psychology Major and Men’s Golfer, Jude Smith, is Blending Academics, Competition, and Community at Bethany.

BETHANY, W.Va. (Jan. 5, 2026) — A proud Weirton, West Virginia, native, junior Jude Smith ‘27 has found his home at Bethany College both in the classroom and on the golf course. As a psychology major and member of the men’s golf team, Jude has embraced the opportunity to grow as a student-athlete while forming lasting friendships along the way. From the tight-knit campus community to the support of teammates and professors, his Bethany experience has been shaped by connection, competition, and preparation for the future. 

For Jude, the most meaningful part of his Bethany College experience has been the relationships he’s built with friends and teammates. “I came from a smaller high school where we had a close-knit group of friends, and that has transferred over to a great group of friends here at Bethany as well,” he said. 

Bethany has also played an important role in helping Jude pursue his goals both academically and athletically. As a member of the men’s golf team, Jude has been able to continue playing the sport he loves at the collegiate level, while the small class sizes and supportive learning environment have helped him stay focused on his long-term academic and career aspirations. “Bethany has been a great steppingstone, both for my future in golf and in the classroom.”