WVU Nursing student pursues purpose and passion in second degree journey

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Bailey King, a nursing student from Fairmont, West Virginia, is pursuing her second degree at West Virginia University with a clear sense of purpose and passion. Inspired by her mother and grandmother, who both worked as nurses, King is continuing a family tradition rooted in compassion and service.

Her grandmother worked in psychiatric care at Chestnut Ridge, an experience that sparked King’s awareness of the importance of mental health care. Her mother, a school nurse, has shown her the daily impact that dedicated, empathetic care can have on individuals and families alike. These strong role models helped shape King’s decision to enter the nursing profession.

Now enrolled in the WVU School of Nursing’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, King is a recipient of the Foundational Dean Scholarship, established by Dean Tara Hulsey. As a second-degree student with limited access to financial aid, the scholarship has eased the burden, allowing her to focus more on her studies and less on financial pressures. It has enabled her to reduce her work hours as an extern, giving her more time to excel academically and prepare for her future career.

“As a second-degree student, there’s not a lot of financial aid out there,” King said. “This scholarship helps bridge that gap so I can spend more time studying instead of working. Nursing school is hard, and this makes a big difference.”

WVU has played a key role in her growth, offering leadership opportunities, exposure to a full spectrum of care from pediatrics to adult health, and access to real-world experience through facilities like Ruby Memorial Hospital. These experiences have shaped her approach to nursing, emphasizing non-judgmental, therapeutic care and a deep commitment to meeting patients where they are.

King hopes to remain in West Virginia after graduation, with the goal of working in the Emergency Department at Ruby. She’s drawn to the fast-paced environment and the opportunity to support patients during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Beyond clinical care, she is also passionate about outreach and volunteer work, including efforts with the Rosenbaum Family House, where she has seen firsthand how much families appreciate even small acts of kindness.

“In the emergency department, people come in on what’s probably the worst day of their lives,” King said. “I want to be the person who can help make that day just a little bit better.”

Having previously earned a degree in health and well-being, King entered an accelerated nursing program before transitioning to the standard track. Though the journey has had its challenges, it has also brought her deep friendships, personal growth, and a strong sense of purpose.

King credits her scholarship for helping her stay focused and balanced, and she emphasizes the importance of mental health for all nursing students. For those just beginning their journey, she encourages prioritizing both time management and well-being, knowing that strong caregivers must also care for themselves.

If you are interested in making a donation to support student scholarships at the WVU School of Nursing, please contact Dr. Kimberly Colebank, Development Director, at kcolebank@wvuf.org or 304-554-0237. Donations are awarded via the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Wendy Holdren
Director of Communications and Marketing
WVU School of Nursing
304-581-1772; wendy.holdren@hsc.wvu.edu