Victoria's Story

Victoria Hall is a freshman pre-med major. She is involved in the Student Government Association (SGA) as the first-year delegate. She lives on campus with her self-trained service dog, Kobe. Victoria has a love for animals. She enjoys horseback riding and competes in local and national competitions. She also worked at a traveling petting zoo.

“I grew up with two older brothers. I went to a tech high school for two years and was in school virtually for the other two. I had some medical issues that were not properly diagnosed. I knew I was sick, but my doctor ignored me because they didn’t know what I had. My family and I had to travel to many major hospitals looking to find a solution to my health problem. Finally, I was able to find an answer at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. I had an amazing experience with the doctors. They believed me when I shared my symptoms and were able to help me with my diagnoses. That experience inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. However, growing up with my condition was not easy. In high school, I was always known as the girl that was sick. It was difficult to socialize with others because of my constant absences. This has pushed me to focus on my academic performance. I enjoyed learning online, but it also impacted my mental health. I would feel very anxious about school and my health.

“Coming to Bay Path has changed my life for the better. It has brought me out of my shell to take on some leadership roles on campus. As a first-year delegate, it became my duty to connect with other students and advocate for them. By doing so, I had the opportunity to make more friends and feel like I am part of a community. People here not only accept me but also do not define me by my illness. Bay Path has been very accommodating when it comes to helping me adjust to living on campus. I’m able to bring my medical alert service dog to live with me in the dorm. Sometimes people question the legitimacy of my service dog or stare. This has encouraged me to advocate for myself, educate others, and use their curiosity as an icebreaker.

“My biggest accomplishment is being able to stay on top of my course work while traveling for my medical condition. I have grown to appreciate everything I have been through with my illness. I believe it has made me a stronger person and helped me gain insight and empathy. I have made it my mission to advocate for people with invisible illness and create awareness.”

Favorite quote: "I can be changed by what's happened to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it." - Maya Angelou