Nancy Rebecca Cox Wilson
Bachelor of Science, Molecular Biology
Profile
Briefly tell us about yourself (e.g. hometown, family, hobbies, favorite BYU courses, intended profession)
Provo has been the town I always come back to for a very long time; home, though, is where my family is. We've recently moved to New Zealand to be near my husband's family, and it's beautiful here. What I've learned about myself in my years at BYU is that I'm passionate about fairness in access to healthcare, in use of scientific breakthroughs, and in access to knowledge. I hope to use my degree and my experience to promote that sort of fairness, through study and through dissemination of knowledge.
Who were your greatest supporters while earning this degree?
My husband Alma Wilson and our eight children, Helaman, Eve, Enoch, Abraham, Shiphrah Quintillia, Elijah, Ruth, Isaih; my mother, B. Ann Cox; my late father Lynn Cox; and my siblings, Sarah Ann Cox, Karla Hendricks, Alexis Potter, Day Harper, and Benjamin Cox. Also many friends, fellow students, faculty, staff, and professors, especially Steve Johnson, R. Paul Evans, Brent Nielsen, and the intstructors, staff, and fellow learners in the Honors program.
What advice do you have for incoming freshmen at BYU?
Don't give up. Even if it's hard, even if it looks like there's no hope of finishing or passing or whatever it is - just keep trying. Ask for help, including generous extensions. People are often understanding, and want you to succeed. Let them be part of your success, rather than failing alone.
How has your experience at BYU prepared you for the rest of your life?
I've learned to keep trying. When it seems like every chance is gone and you can't finish, keep moving forward; it's worth the effort. Don't stop until there's nothing else to try. Don't be afraid to look for more options, and be hopeful.