James “Doc” Marshall grew up on a dairy farm in Munnsville, NY.

After graduating from Stockbridge High School in 1950, he headed to Cornell University intending to follow the family farming tradition.

That was until he walked through the university’s veterinary school one day. His interests changed instantly.

Marshall spoke to his guidance counselor about the possibility of switching majors.

“He said I’d taken all the wrong courses,” he told The Post-Standard in 2003.

To be considered, Marshall would have to take tough courses like organic chemistry and advanced zoology together the next semester.

The advisor said it could not be done. That Marshall would “bust out” trying.

“It made me so mad,” he said.

Determined to do it, he went ahead. Marshall had a 95 average at his midterms.

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