Haley Combs has always had a heart for helping others. But it wasn’t until she faced a tough challenge that she discovered her career path.
During her junior year of high school in Hinton, Okla., she suffered a leg injury while playing basketball. This was an experience that changed everything for her.
“Physical therapy gave me so much support, both mentally and physically,” Combs said. “The people who helped me through that time really made a difference in my life.”
After recovering, Combs realized she wanted to give that same kind of help and encouragement to others. She then set her sights on becoming a physical therapist. When it came time to choose a college, she found the perfect place at Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
“The second I drove into Alva, it immediately felt like a community,” Combs said. “From there everything just fell into place.”
Northwestern offered the academic path she needed and gave her the opportunity to continue running cross country and track, something she loves.
Being a student-athlete has come with challenges, but Combs says the support she has received from her professors and coaches makes all the difference.
"They are helpful and are understanding that I am a student-athlete,” Combs said.
An unexpected support system during her time at Northwestern has come from her job as a student worker at the J.R. Holder Wellness Center.
“Working there has helped me build relationships with people in the community who visit regularly,” Combs said. “It became more than just a job; it is a way that I gained many new connections.”
That strong sense of community is one of the main reasons Combs has such a strong love for Northwestern.
“Haley is really driven in all aspects in life,” Olivia Yandel, Director, J.R. Holder Wellness Center, said. “Working at the Wellness Center, she doesn’t cut corners; she does everything consistently and correctly. I believe the way she handles the various tasks of school or work will translate to a successful career.”
Over the past few years as a Ranger, Combs has worked hard to complete all the courses she needs to apply to physical therapy school. She plans to apply to a few schools in June 2025 and is excited about what is ahead.
Combs knows she wouldn’t be where she is today without the support she has come to find at Northwestern, from her coaches and professors to her coworkers and community members.
“I am thankful for my time at Northwestern and all of the support I have received,” Combs said.