A computer science major with minors in mathematics and digital humanities, Bethany is set to graduate in May 2026. Though she grew up just across the state line in Ashland, Kentucky, her connection to Marshall began long before she stepped onto campus as a student.
“My dad, who has since passed away, graduated from Marshall with his undergraduate degree, did four years of medical school and his family practice residency there,” said Bethany. “Following in his footsteps by coming to Marshall has always been something really special to me.”
Her father’s pride in Marshall shaped her childhood. Some of Bethany’s favorite memories are of the time they spent together at Marshall football games.
“He bought season tickets so he could take my brother and me, not just to watch football, but to build a connection to the university and the community around it.
His pride in Marshall always stuck with Bethany and made the university feel like more than just a school.
Bethany’s ultimate decision to attend Marshall included her family connection, the proximity to home and the overall sense of belonging she felt on campus.
“The first time I stepped onto Marshall’s campus, it immediately felt like home,” she said. “The sense of community, support and belonging here is truly unmatched. Marshall isn’t just a university, it’s a family. That feeling is something you can’t find just anywhere.”
Although Ashland is located within the Tri-State region and is just a short drive from Huntington, crossing the state line to attend college felt like a meaningful step for Bethany.
Marshall’s metro tuition rate which allows students from nearby counties in Kentucky and Ohio to attend at a reduced tuition rate, also contributed to Bethany’s decision.
“Even though my main reasons for choosing Marshall weren’t financial, the Metro Tuition rate made it much more affordable as an out-of-state student and took a lot of pressure off when it came to actually being able to attend,” Bethany said.
Her family celebrated her choice to attend Marshall, especially her mother, who was excited she would be close to home. Being nearby allowed Bethany to maintain her strong family ties while also gaining independence and building her future.
Like many students, Bethany arrived at college unsure of her major. Exploring different fields led her to computer science.
“Computer science was the perfect balance of logic and creativity for me. I enjoy problem-solving and building things from the ground up.”
Bathany’s coursework has included impactful projects and mentors. In a digital humanities class, she built a website from scratch focused on an issue affecting the Tri-State region, and a challenging course with Dr. Husnu Narmon pushed her to develop a fitness app and build confidence in her abilities.
“I learned that I’m capable of far more than I initially believed.”
Bethany has fully embraced campus life, serving as vice president of membership for Delta Zeta and participating in intramural volleyball.
“Being involved on campus has shaped my leadership style to be both structured and empathetic,” she said. “I’ve learned the importance of preparation, organization and accountability, while also understanding that leadership means listening, adapting and supporting others.”
Marshall traditions like homecoming week, the annual Memorial Fountain Ceremony and attending football games have become touchstones of her college experience.
“Those moments capture everything special about this campus: community, pride and shared experiences.”
Marshall has shaped Bethany academically, personally and professionally, but it also holds a deeply emotional place in her heart.
“I think my dad would be incredibly proud. Knowing I’m continuing a legacy he cared so deeply about means everything to me.”
After graduating, Bethany plans to continue her education at Marshall by pursuing a master’s of business administration, combining her technical background with leadership and management training.
Looking back, she sees her decision to attend Marshall not only as a tribute to her father but also as a defining chapter of her own story.
“Don’t be afraid to choose a place that already feels like home,” Bethany said. “Marshall offers incredible opportunities while still providing a strong sense of community and support.”
