Throughout the spring semester we are highlighting our senior Fighting Scots with a Senior Salute series. Today's featured senior is swimming and diving's Bailey Nickols. Nickols is a biochemistry and molecular biology major.
Q: Why did you choose to attend The College of Wooster?
A: I chose Wooster because of the overwhelming sense of acceptance and support that radiates across campus from coaches and professors to peers. The genuine care and encouragement I felt from the very first visit made it clear that Wooster was a place where I could truly grow, both personally and academically.
Q: What does being a Fighting Scot student-athlete mean to you?
A: Being a Fighting Scot means taking pride in representing a small but mighty school with heart and determination. It is about bringing Wooster's name into every circle I am part of with pride, passion, and a sense of belonging. It is knowing that I will wear my Wooster athletics gear for years to come, proud of the community and resilience it stands for.
Q: What are some of your favorite memories as a student at The College of Wooster?
A: Some of my favorite memories have come from the connections I have built with my professors. I love how a conversation about a paper can effortlessly turn into a discussion about their favorite travel destinations or life experiences. I have spent countless hours in office conversations that lasted far longer than planned, simply because the dialogue was that meaningful and genuine.
Q: What is the best part about being a student-athlete at The College of Wooster?
A: The best part is the incredible sense of community that the entire athletic department fosters. Beyond the bond I share with my teammates, I have found connections with student-athletes across different teams who share the same drive and dedication. There is a mutual respect and understanding of the hard work we all put in. That shared commitment creates something truly special.
Q: What else were you involved with on campus besides your sport?
A: I am a health coach through the partnership with Wooster Community Hospital, a sophomore research assistant, part of the pre-health club, the Wooster Volunteer Network, an ambassador for Biggabed, a peer tutor, and a building monitor.
Q: Which College of Wooster faculty or staff member has made the greatest impact on you and why?
A: Honestly, I cannot choose just one. Every member of the STEM department has made an incredible impact on me. The professors' dedication to their students, both inside and outside the classroom, has shaped not only my academic growth but also my confidence as a researcher and future professional. Their encouragement, mentorship, and genuine belief in their students make Wooster's STEM community truly special.
Q: What other people or resources impacted your Wooster experience in a positive way and how did these people and resources set you up to be successful at Wooster?
A: My coach, Rob Harrington, has had one of the most meaningful impacts on my experience at Wooster. He truly cares about every athlete, not just in terms of performance, but as people navigating college and life. His constant support, encouragement, and belief in each of us have made all the difference. He pushes us to reach our potential while creating an environment where we feel valued and understood. That kind of leadership motivates you to work harder, not because you have to, but because you want to.
Q: Tell us a bit about your Independent Study project?
A: My Independent Study focuses on the cloning, expression, and characterization of thioredoxin reductase gene variants. This project allowed me to apply advanced molecular biology techniques, think critically about biochemical function, and contribute to ongoing research in the field. It has been an incredible opportunity to take ownership of my work and gain hands-on experience that few undergraduates get to experience.
Q: Tell us a bit about something cool you did as a student at The College of Wooster?
A: One of the coolest experiences I have had was participating in research and internship opportunities that stemmed directly from my Wooster education. The College provides students access to hands-on lab work and independent research early on, which not only builds technical skills, but also opens doors for future opportunities. The experiences I have had here have strengthened my resume, set me apart from other applicants, and given me confidence walking into any lab or professional setting.
Q: Reflecting back on your time at Wooster, what advice would you give your first-year self?
A: I would tell my first-year self to embrace every opportunity, both the exciting and the challenging ones, because each experience helps you grow in ways you cannot predict. Do not be afraid to ask questions, reach out to professors, or step outside your comfort zone. Wooster offers so much to those who take initiative. The more you invest in the Wooster community, the more it gives back.
Interested in becoming a Fighting Scot?
High school prospective student-athletes can click here to learn about our recruiting process, click here to view the virtual campus tour, and click here to learn more about admissions events, tours, and visit programs.
Transfer prospective student-athletes can click here to learn about our transfer recruiting process and use the links above for the virtual tour and admissions visit programs.
