July 9, 2024

Nursing student Lily Brya says Ferris State’s small class sizes, access to faculty convinced her to become a Bulldog – like her parents

Lily Brya says small class sizes were a key factor in her decision to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at Ferris State University. 

Plus, the Petoskey native is already familiar with the benefits of being a Bulldog – both of her parents are Ferris State grads.  

Brya and her mother, Shelly, were among the hundreds of future students and families attending orientation on Monday, July 8.  

Brya’s path to pursue a degree in Nursing began at North Central Michigan College in her hometown, with studying at Ferris State as a constant for college considerations. 

“There is a university atmosphere here that does not include oversized lecture hall courses. I want that intimacy in my class schedule and the chance to speak one-on-one with my professors,” she said. “I am also thankful to have qualified for a scholarship from Ferris, which will greatly help my college costs.” 

Brya is coming to Ferris State as a sophomore transfer student. She took some dual enrollment courses at North Central Michigan, prerequisite subjects that helped with her application to Ferris State’ Nursing program.  

“I had done job shadowing in dental hygiene while I was in high school and considered nursing or radiography but have always focused on Ferris as my school,” she said. 

Shelly Brya earned a degree in Ferris State’s Industrial and Environmental Health Management program. She met her husband Denny, a Ferris State Construction Management alumnus. Unsurprisingly, their daughter pursued her education and dreams in Big Rapids. 

“We kept an open mind about where Lily would go to school but have regularly visited Ferris as a family for athletic events and Homecoming celebrations,” Brya said. “I think her familiarity with the campus from our visits helped her decide, but Ferris is a place that is not ‘too big’ that gives a student a great deal of attention and experience.”

The Bryas are optimistic about Lily’s academic and social prospects at Ferris State based on their legacies and “likes.” 

“We have three bulldogs as pets in our family,” Shelly said. “We are proud that Lily chose to join us as Ferris State Bulldogs. I only hope she makes lifelong friends and has the love for the school we have enjoyed since our time on campus.” 

Orientation sessions continue with sessions on Tuesday, July 9; Thursday, July 11; and next week on Monday, July 15; Tuesday, July 16; and Thursday, July 18. 

The first day of Fall 2024 semester classes is Monday, Aug. 26.