MARIETTA, OHIO — Chauntay Dillon is an Associate of Science student at Washington State College of Ohio (WSCO) who hopes to eventually enter WSCO’s Nursing Program. Dillon has always dreamed of being a nurse since she was a little girl and is finally getting a chance to chase that dream. As a single mother, she looks forward to her hard work and determination in school eventually paying off for her and her family.
Dillon previously started her academic journey at another institution but, feeling unsupported and lacking guidance, grew uncertain about pursuing her goals. However, she heard that WSCO had a completely different atmosphere, one where faculty and staff truly prepare their students and support them throughout their education. This difference sparked Dillon’s interest in giving her education another shot—this time at WSCO.
“Chauntay’s attitude sets her apart. She knew this wouldn’t be easy, yet she still took the plunge. She understood she couldn’t overwhelm herself, but she was determined to move ahead,” said Amanda Stilgenbauer, Student Success Coach at WSCO. Stilgenbauer has been working closely with Dillon and commends her for taking charge of her life and pursuing her education, even if it means taking the slow and steady path unlike other students. “She has a sister who will be graduating from our nursing program in May, and Chauntay has understood from day one that her path will look very different than her sister’s—and she’s okay with that.” Dillon’s sister was a major influence that played part in her decision to pursue WSCO’s nursing program.
One piece of advice Dillon offers to anyone thinking about starting college is to simply take the leap. “When you start college, you don’t know what your outcome will be, which can be really scary. However, you’ve got to take the first step and at least give it a try! Just starting was the hardest part for me, but I’m glad I took the chance,” says Dillon.
When asked about the most challenging part of earning her degree, Dillon says it’s finding a balance between attending school and taking care of her other responsibilities. “The most challenging part for me is figuring out how to juggle everything—school, home life, and my kids.” She explains that finding time for everything is a constant battle. “Making time to do my homework and study for exams is the most difficult obstacle I face in getting my education, as I only have time to do my schoolwork late at night due to work, school, and taking care of my kids.”
Dillon is continuously overcoming obstacles to achieve her ultimate goal of becoming a nurse. She is a dedicated student who excels in school, consistently attends class, and ensures she completes all her work on time. This commitment, according to Stilgenbauer, will ultimately lead Dillon to the finish line of her goal, “She has methodically been chipping away at her classes and has put herself in a great position to reach her goal.”
Dillon acknowledges that she is not doing this alone and has a strong support system backing her, “My support system consists of my mom, stepdad, and my sister. My parents especially help me by taking my kids to and from their school and extracurricular activities.” She is incredibly thankful for their support, believing it is one of the biggest reasons she can attend college right now.
Dillon is hopeful that she will graduate by Spring 2027 and has many future plans and aspirations. Ultimately, she wants to be a nurse, although she hasn’t yet decided which type, and she dreams of providing her children with a better life and having more financial freedom. “I aspire to give my kids a better life. I want to be financially stable, fully support my kids, and I also want the freedom to travel with my kids anywhere they want to go, anytime,” says Dillon.
Stilgenbauer believes Dillon’s story could truly benefit other students. “I think a lot of students can benefit from her story and understand that determination is what matters most, and that everyone has their own individual path. Chauntay has always understood that what works for one person won’t necessarily work for another.”
