Meet Bailee.

What made you consider nursing as a program of study?

In high school I lived with my grandparents and found a deep comfort in helping and caring for them. My sweet nannie would always tell me, “You’re going to be my nurse one day.” From there, this sparked my interest and shortly after, I was exposed to obstetrics. I had the honors of witnessing a close friend’s birth at age 16. At 19, I witnessed my handsome nephew come into this world. Needless to say, the rest was history and I had fallen in love with the specialty.

Why did you choose WVU School of Nursing? 

Honestly, I originally chose WVU Tech blindly fresh out of high school. I graduated in May and was married by the end of June. My husband and I had settled into our home and had no plans of leaving each other, so I knew tech was where I wanted to go. Later, I learned that their nursing program was competitive and one of the best around. I found deep comfort in knowing this and never regretted my decision.

Could you share a positive experience from your time at the SON?

I have nothing but positives to share about the Beckley SON program and faculty. I would not be here if it wasn’t for their advocacy and encouragement.

What’s one piece of advice you would give your freshman self?

I would tell freshman me that it is okay to fall off track. At first, you may not succeed and that’s okay. It is okay to start your life in the middle. Lastly, you’re driven enough and dedicated to this, so you will achieve your dreams!

Are there any obstacles you’ve been able to overcome in your pursuit of a nursing degree?

Yes, I started nursing school in 2018. Since then, I have had two obstacles in obtaining this degree. However, these two obstacles changed my life for the better, and I could not have made my way back without them. Having children in nursing school was hard on me. At first, I failed, but here I am with two babies, and I’m doing it all for them.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

After graduation I hope to pursue a career in labor & delivery, continue to watch my family grow, and hopefully find a forever home.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

I draw my inspiration from those who push me every day to succeed, and how much they believe in me. Even when I question my own abilities, my family is right there to tell me the opposite and give me the confidence I lack in myself.

Why would you recommend WVU SON to someone?

I would recommend WVU SON to someone because it is a planned and scheduled 4-year degree with summer breaks. I believe this would make it an easy adjustment for someone coming straight out of high school. This program and staff make it a point to have student prepared and ready for their boards. Also, because the faculty care for their students and want to see them succeed in academics and life.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Push for the things you want in life; if at first you don’t succeed, try again! I believe everything happens for a reason, even though you may never know that reason. Good things can and really will come to those who wait. Sometimes your life plans will change and that is okay!