Student-athlete continues family military legacy

From an athlete to army nurse, sophomore Alison McKay is following in her family’s footsteps by being sworn into the military.

McKay’s grandfather and father both served in the U.S. Army. Meanwhile her oldest brother is currently serving and McKay’s younger sister plans to pursue a career in the U.S. Army after attending Bloomsburg University.

“I have always wanted to serve my country and it was even better that I could pursue my dream of being a nurse as well,” McKay said.

McKay learned about an opportunity to jumpstart her career in the military while still in high school. Her father told her about how ROTC was offered at Bloomsburg University, as well as the scholarships available through the program. Without hesitation, McKay applied and was granted a 3-Year National ROTC Scholarship.

Not only has the scholarship brought her closer to her dream, but also has her involvement on the Huskies field hockey team.

“The army is a big family and it all relies on teamwork and trusting your peers,” McKay said. “Field hockey is a team sport and has showed me that you can only go far and be successful if everyone works together as a team on and off the field.”

With two parents who graduated from Bloomsburg University and an amazing nursing program with a pass rate of nearly 100 percent every year, McKay knew BU would push her in the right direction for her future.

“After touring the campus, meeting with my ROTC instructor, and attending a field hockey clinic, I knew this was the best school for me,” McKay said.