Dona Bailey was born in Little Rock, Arkansas. Specific details about her upbringing during this period are limited, but it's crucial as the starting point of her journey.

Growing up, Bailey displayed a keen interest and aptitude for mathematics and science. This early inclination would later shape her academic and professional pursuits.

Bailey enrolled at the University of Arkansas to study Electrical Engineering. This choice of major was a significant step towards her career in technology and video game programming, although she faced challenges as one of the few women in the program.

Dona Bailey graduates from the University of Arkansas with a degree in Electrical Engineering, arming her with the necessary knowledge to pursue a career in the burgeoning tech industry. This was a major accomplishment and paved the way for her to join Atari.