Commencement Spotlight: April Marks

ASU COMMENCEMENT SPOTLIGHT: APRIL MARKS, BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING

PLANS TO PURSUE HER MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING (MSN) IN PSYCHIATRIC-MENTAL HEALTH NURSING AT ALBANY STATE UNIVERSITY

April Marks, a Ruleville, Mississippi native who will graduate on Dec. 13 with a bachelor's degree in nursing from the Darton College of Health Professions. She is an active member of the Student Nurses Association, the Veterans Support and Advocacy Group, and the Southern Crescent Technical College Health Fair Volunteer Team. April has dedicated her service to several community initiatives, including county health programs, homeless outreach efforts, and domestic violence support services. A consistent Dean’s List scholar and recipient of the Order of Eastern Star Leadership Award, she also conducted meaningful research on mental health disparities among veterans, examining how access, stigma, and rural healthcare impact treatment outcomes in Mississippi and Georgia. April completed her Nurse Residency at Piedmont Fayette Hospital in Fayetteville, Georgia.

What motivated you to learn more about your field?
I’ve always had a heart for helping others, but my motivation grew stronger after seeing the challenges many patients face when seeking mental health care and general care, especially in rural areas like the Mississippi Delta. Nursing allows me to combine compassion, clinical skills, and advocacy to make a real difference in their lives.

Why did you choose ASU?
I chose ASU because of its supportive learning environment and its commitment to preparing nurses who serve with both skill and heart. The faculty genuinely care about student success and encourage research that impacts our local communities. 

What are your post-graduation plans?
After completing my BSN, I plan to earn my MSN and specialize in psychiatric-mental health nursing. My goal is to work with veterans and rural populations to improve access to mental health care and reduce disparities in treatment. 

What do you love most about your chosen profession?
I love that nursing is both science and service. Every patient interaction is an opportunity to provide healing, comfort, and understanding. It is a profession that allows me to truly make a difference every day. 

Who has made the biggest impact on you, and who do you consider to be a role model at ASU?
Ms. Marlena Hughes, one of my nursing professors, has had the biggest impact on me. She always encouraged me to pursue research and to see nursing as more than bedside care; it is also about leadership and advocacy. 

What is your favorite memory from your time at ASU?
My favorite memory from my time at ASU is experiencing the true spirit of an HBCU, one built on excellence, culture, and community. ASU gave me the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally through meaningful clinical experiences that prepared me to serve with skill and compassion. Beyond the classroom and clinicals, I formed lasting friendships with classmates who became like family. Together, we supported one another through every challenge and celebrated every success, embodying the excellence and unity that defined the ASU experience. 

What advice would you give to other ASU students?
Stay focused, stay humble, and never lose sight of your purpose. Nursing school is challenging, but every late night and long clinical shift brings you closer to changing lives. 

What would you say to a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education?
ASU is the perfect place to grow both personally and professionally. You’ll find professors who believe in you, opportunities to serve your community, and a family that supports your success every step of the way.

For information regarding commencement, please click here.