“There are days when the physical and cognitive challenges feel overwhelming, but I draw strength from the same determination I relied upon in my military career. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory.”
Fast Facts
- Critical care registered nurse: Worked in ICU throughout the Covid-19 pandemic
- Military service: Served in the United States Marine Corps infantry before transitioning to nursing
- Outdoor enthusiast: Enjoys kayaking, swimming, and most outdoor activities
- Dog lover: Has a boxer rescued from St. Croix, USVI named Coconut
- Islands: Spent lots of time exploring the island and reefs of St. Croix, USVI
Christopher Marley, a Marine Corps veteran, FSU nursing alumnus and current Master of Business Administration (MBA) student, has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout his academic and career journey.
While working as a nurse in late 2021, Marley experienced a life-threatening stroke when he was just three classes short of graduation with his third degree, an MBA from Florida State University.
Since then, he has been working on recovery, and with the help of FSU’s Student Veterans Center and Office of Accessibility Services, recently returned to FSU to finish his MBA in hopes of making a difference in health care administration.
Marley’s journey has shaped his perspective on leadership and resilience. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, taking risks and not letting complacency hinder personal and professional growth.
Through FSU’s Student Veterans Center, Marley has participated in community outreach and events while also finding a community that supports him throughout his education and recovery.
What motivated you to return to finish your MBA, and what was that journey like for you?
Facing a life-altering stroke has undeniably been one of the most difficult challenges I’ve encountered. It shattered my world in ways I couldn’t have anticipated, physically and mentally. The road to recovery has been long, with chronic issues stemming from the stroke still affecting nearly every aspect of my daily life. However, as a Marine, I’ve learned to never give up, to keep moving forward, and adapt in any way possible. Those values became my foundation for what recovery I have managed to achieve.
What motivated me to return to finish my MBA was the same drive that pushed me through my military service: a sense of duty to myself and to those who had supported me throughout my journey. I knew that finishing what I had started was not just about achieving a personal goal but also about proving to myself and others that no setback, no matter how devastating, could define me.
The journey back is far from easy. There are days when the physical and cognitive challenges feel overwhelming, but I draw strength from the same determination I relied upon in my military career. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory. I’ve had to adjust my pace, lean on my support network more than ever and break down the barriers that the stroke created. But with a refusal to quit, and the support of those around me, I have managed to continue my studies and will finish my MBA. It is a personal triumph over a painful challenge that no one could have seen coming, but I refuse to let it defeat me. In the end, this is about proving to others that no matter the obstacle, you have to keep moving forward.
What drew you to nursing, and what has been the most rewarding aspects of your career?
In critical care nursing, I found an opportunity to combine my drive for teamwork and analytical learning with a chance to help others through difficult times. As a Marine, I found nursing to be a natural extension of my desire to serve and make a difference in people’s lives, especially during high-speed, life-threatening events.
The most rewarding aspects of my nursing career have been twofold. First, the ability to directly impact and support patients and their families during some of their most vulnerable times has been incredibly fulfilling. Whether in the ICU or elsewhere, being there to provide knowledgeable care and comfort is truly meaningful. Second, nursing has allowed me to continue fostering strong teamwork and leadership skills. Working collaboratively with fellow health care professionals to deliver exceptional care has been both challenging and rewarding.
I worked in critical care all through the Covid-19 pandemic, which was a very difficult time for patients, families and staff. I often reflect on providing direct patient care in critical environments throughout one of the worst medical disasters the country has ever faced. I am grateful I was able to be there, alongside my courageous team members providing care to the sickest patients.
How have your experiences as a Marine and ICU nurse shaped your approach to leadership and resilience while pursuing an MBA?
In the Marines, life was about discipline and teamwork. As an ICU nurse, using those same principles, I learned to lead in high-pressure situations, where decision-making and quick thinking are essential. Pursuing an MBA added a new dimension, emphasizing strategic thinking and managing complex projects.
Each one of these missions and goals has its own challenges. Together, they have fostered an ability to adapt and change to different measures of success and leadership styles. As different as these journeys have been, they all required a strong ability for flexibility and an attitude of perseverance. Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at FSU was a major milestone.
What are some of your favorite memories from your time as a student?
One of my proudest moments was being part of the team to coordinate and perform Florida’s first Purple Heart Day ceremony at the Capitol, where we honored Gold Star Mothers. It was a deeply meaningful service, and one of the highlights of my time as a Marine in Tallahassee.
I was also proud to be part of the Student Veterans Union when it was officially recognized by FSU, creating lasting camaraderie and a strong sense of community.
What advice would you give to aspiring health care professionals?
Complacency is the enemy. Know your worth and never stop learning or striving for more. Don’t be afraid to take that job in intensive or emergency care. If you want to work in high-speed nursing (or otherwise), don’t imagine it “one day.” Imagine it now. Take opportunities. Be the person studying for the position you want, even if you don’t have it yet. I’ve seen many professionals in both the Marine Corps and nursing become stagnant or comfortable. The truth is, if you realize you have been comfortable for too long, you aren’t pushing hard enough.
Another truth is that at the end of the day, while good pay and a good quality of life is part of why we work, becoming a medical professional is never completely about you. The most important impact you will make every day is with your patients and their families. If you join this field primarily concerned about a paycheck, you will burn out quickly. This work is dedicated to helping people who are often at their lowest point, and you will be their advocate, their voice, and the hand that holds them when all is lost. It isn’t easy, but it is an honor.
Always lead with empathy and remember that health care is about people, not just conditions or diagnoses. Be willing to listen, learn continuously, and adapt to each patient’s needs. Never lose sight of why you became a health care professional: to help others.