Nathan Baker grew up in a rural farming community and was initially unsure about attending college. However, his curiosity about psychology led him to explore higher education. Just five years after graduating from Ohio State, he is now an assistant professor of psychology at Wright State University.
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From Rural Roots to Academic Heights: The Journey of Nathan Baker
Baker chose The Ohio State University at Marion for its affordability, smaller class sizes, and opportunities for campus involvement. “I was a psychology student. I’ve always enjoyed all areas of science and wanted to do work that directly benefits others,” he said.
He completed all four years of his undergraduate studies at Ohio State Marion, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Business Management. What stood out most to him were the professors who shaped his academic journey. “Several professors had a profound impact on me,” Baker shared. “Small class sizes and faculty openness allowed for meaningful interactions. Dr. Nikole Patson connected me with research opportunities and advised my honors thesis.”
Baker also credits Stuart Lishan’s English class and Dr. Camacho-Platero’s Spanish courses for helping him build confidence and broaden his perspective. Some of his favorite memories include working campus jobs and bonding with fellow students while learning new skills.
He was deeply involved in extracurriculars such as the Griffin Honor Society, Psychology Club, and Undergraduate Student Government, which helped him connect with peers and professionals outside his major. “These activities introduced me to people I wouldn’t have met otherwise including someone in the field I ultimately pursued,” said Baker.
Ohio State Marion helped Baker grow personally and professionally. “I built a competitive graduate school application with research, professional experience, extracurriculars, and local awards,” he said. “These were key to getting into a top-tier PhD program. I also gained confidence and a well-rounded skill set.”
He encourages students to explore their interests deeply and then commit. “You’ll never feel 100% sure, but it’s better to give it a real shot than stay in limbo. Don’t be afraid to do things differently,” Baker explained.
Baker takes pride in completing his dissertation, maintaining a 4.0 GPA through nine years of college, starting a family during graduate school, and publishing several papers. Still, he wishes he had stressed less. “I should’ve focused more on enjoying the experience. I spent a lot of time studying, working, and doing research. It paid off, but I didn’t need to be so stressed,” said Baker.
He advises students with high standards to find balance. “It’s okay to enjoy the process. Some of my best memories are just spending time with friends, traveling, or going to parties,” he said.
Baker learned early on to separate work and personal life. “I treated education like a job and made time for both. I’m lucky to work from home a few days a week, which lets me invest in my family. Life has seasons—sometimes one area needs more attention than another,” said Baker.
Looking ahead, Baker hopes to earn tenure, explore consulting, and give back to the community. Outside of work, he enjoys home renovation, visiting parks and museums with his wife and child, hiking, exercising, and playing the drums.
About Ohio State Marion
The Ohio State University at Marion was established in 1957 in Marion, Ohio as one of four Ohio State regional campuses. The 187-acre campus provides an open access portal to Ohio's flagship university, faculty expertise, and the breadth and depth of opportunity synonymous with one of the country's top public universities. Students can earn and associate of arts or bachelor's degree in biology, business, education, engineering technology, English, history, psychology, or social work on the Marion campus or begin any of 200+ Ohio State degree programs. Ohio State Marion's caring community of world-renowned faculty scholars and researchers and dedicated staff are passionate about fostering the full potential of each student in an inclusive environment that embraces the idea of caring and personal attention. Ohio State Marion prepares students for meaningful careers through innovative, engaging, and inclusive learning experiences and seeks to be the destination of choice for those seeking a university education at a campus recognized for excellence in teaching, research, community outreach, and citizenship.