Cody started studying nursing at Marshall in August 2016, which led him to aim for an ambitious goal: earning his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with a focus on Anesthesia.
Cody’s choice to attend Marshall was practical and personal.
“It was the hometown school and really the only one that I could afford with scholarships,” he said.
His familiarity with the campus through Upward Bound, a college preparation program he participated in during high school, and his older sister, who was also a student at Marshall, provided a sense of comfort as he took his first steps into higher education.
Coming from a family without a history of college attendance, the financial accessibility of Marshall made it an easy choice—but it also represented a leap into the unknown.
To Cody, the significance of earning a college degree is monumental.
“To me it means everything,” though he acknowledged that his family, who may not fully understand the sacrifices involved, might not see it the same way.
He persevered, knowing that his success would make a difference for future generations. In May 2021, Cody graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, marking a milestone that set the stage for his current pursuit of a DNP degree with an expected graduation in May 2026.
“Getting my nursing degree from Marshall University set me up for success in the field of nursing,” he said.
College wasn’t without its struggles, however. During his undergraduate studies, Cody said he faced a difficult period of depression, a common yet often isolating experience for first-generation students navigating unfamiliar territory. Fortunately, he found support through Bonnie Bailey, director of Marshall’s Student Support Services (SSS).
Bonnie’s guidance during Cody’s roughest times made a lasting impact, helping him to find hope and resilience.
“Without her, I wouldn’t be here today,” he said.
Her said her support was a lifeline, allowing him to continue pursuing his dreams when the path seemed darkest.
The journey has been filled with memorable moments, but Cody’s favorite experiences as a student are tied to the friendships he formed, particularly within the nursing program. The bonds he created with fellow nursing students enriched his college experience but also extended into his personal life—including meeting his wife.
For first-generation students who may feel overwhelmed or anxious about the idea of college, Cody offered heartfelt advice.
“Take it a day at a time,” he said. “If you are feeling overwhelmed, it’s a good thing because you care.”
“College is great for young adults,” he continued. “It teaches responsibility and how to prioritize. In life, we might not always be able to do everything we want to do, but if you are able to accomplish the most important things first you, have more freedom to do what you want.”
For Cody, Marshall was more than just a university; it was a community that empowered him to reach for new heights and reimagine what was possible for himself and his family. His story is a testament to the impact of education and support, both from mentors and peers, in helping first-generation students realize their dreams.
Marshall University is joining schools across the US to celebrate first-generation students as part of the national First-Generation College Celebration (FGCC). Learn more about Student Support Services and other resources for first-generation college students at Marshall by visiting www.marshall.edu/firstgen.
