Finding Her People: Abbigail Doty’s First Gen Story of Support and Belonging at GU

Published: September 05, 2025

Author: Liz Dowell

When Abbigail Doty considered college, her dreams were wrapped in both hope and hesitation. She hoped to find her people - lifelong friends who would walk beside her through the unknown. But she feared leaving behind the comfort of her childhood relationships and stepping into a future her family had never experienced firsthand.

“I was nervous,” she admitted. “My biggest fear was not being able to make friends so easily. I didn’t have my childhood friends by my side anymore.”

What Abbigail did have, however, was something else - a growing support network rooted blocks from her home in Greenville, Illinois.

CALLING GU HOME

Before settling in Greenville eight years ago, her family moved around often. When it came time to choose a college, she wanted to stay close to home, but hadn’t initially considered Greenville University.

“It wasn’t in the plan,” she said. “But a family friend introduced me to GU, and I realized it was everything I was looking for.”

Abbigail’s older brother, now a student at Eastern Illinois University, was the first in their family to attend college. She’s proud to follow in his footsteps. “He deserves the honor more than anyone,” she said. “But knowing I’m second to him is still a huge honor.”

Despite the pride, being a first-generation college student came with its share of uncertainty. "There were moments that felt intimidating," Abbigail shared. "I didn't have stories or advice from my parents about what to expect." What she did have was something just as powerful: community.

“Carol Knight has been such a significant part of my GU experience. Victoria Clark, too. She’s helped me every which way and is such a great listener,” Abbigail said.

Their guidance, along with scholarships and financial support, made it possible for her to attend and thrive.

FIRST GENERATION STUDENT

Abbigail never faced the typical barriers some first-gen students encounter. But she doesn’t take that for granted. “Because I had an immense amount of support, I didn’t necessarily face specific issues,” she said. “That support system made all the difference.”

Now immersed in the GU community, Abbigail’s gratitude overflows. “The most important factor for any first-gen student is having a community around you to help and encourage you,” she said. “Whether it’s students or professors, mentors or family - the people around you matter. And Greenville University is all about community.”

Though her journey is still unfolding, one thing is clear: Abbigail has found what she was searching for. Her people. Her place. And a future filled with possibility.