Communication Sciences and Disorders, Class of 2025
From Ponca City, Oklahoma
I hope to leave a legacy of storytelling. Everyone has a story to tell, and my college experience has given me the personal growth to know how to tell my own story and recognize the way it can impact others. I’ve learned to share with the people around me, and I hope that my ability to authentically share my story has shown others that they can do the same. The more we share, the more we connect and the greater level of empathy we can all gain.
When first-generation college student Kaylee Wimberley began her college search journey, she worried that her application would become just another name added to a mile-high stack in an admissions office. But, as she explored her options with the University of Oklahoma, she realized that becoming part of the OU Family was a much different experience.
"As a prospective student, I could feel the intentionality of the University as a whole through their efforts to connect with me," Kaylee said. "I knew OU would be a place where I'd be supported as a unique individual and never be lost in the crowd. People care for each other at OU."
During her time at OU, Kaylee took full advantage of the on-campus resources, communities, and academic opportunities. She took her education outside of OU's Norman campus to study abroad twice, completed individual research in one of OU's state-of-the-art research labs, and held office in multiple student organizations.
"There's a kind of magic that comes from deep support systems and a culture that pushes you to believe in yourself, even when the opportunities feel way too big," Kaylee said. "Looking back on my time as a student, I'm in awe of what I've experienced and who I've become."
For Kaylee, one of the most meaningful experiences was serving as vice chair of Family Leaders in Miracle Mindset, an early outreach program that serves first-generation and low-income high school students across Oklahoma.
"As a first-generation and low-income student, I felt truly at home with people who understood my background and the challenges that come with it," Kaylee said. "I found friends who share the passion I have—of helping the students that come after us navigate the world of higher education."
Throughout her time at OU, one staff member stayed at her side, Marissa Henderson, the instructor of Kaylee's Foundations: Leadership course she took her freshman year.
Marissa encouraged Kaylee to apply to become a campus tour guide, seeing a potential in her that would eventually lead her to emceeing one of the university's largest recruitment events.
"She creates a very intentional environment where I felt comfortable to explore the idea of growing into a leader on a campus I just arrived to," Kaylee said.
To Kaylee, an OU degree is more than just an academic achievement, it's a representation of four years of hard work, personal growth, and the network of lifelong friends and mentors she found.
"My time here has been about the professors who made me a better future professional, the friends who made me a better friend, and the experiences that have formed me into a more well-rounded person," Kaylee said. "OU has given me the chance to explore all there is to explore in college and grow into the best version of myself."
As Kaylee prepares for the next chapter, she will be attending the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri to pursue a Doctor of Audiology. She will be leaving OU with a degree in communication sciences and disorders from the OU College of Allied Health.
While looking ahead, she knows the legacy she leaves behind is one of storytelling.
"I believe everyone has a story to tell, and when we tell our stories, we grow, we connect, and we build empathy," Kaylee said.
