Allissa Miller, Psychology
By Caitlin Hofen
Joining the Psychology Department is Allissa Miller. Miller earned a Bachelor of Science degree in family studies from the University of Nebraska-Kearney and a Master of Arts degree in counseling from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (Kansas City, Mo.). She previously served as a Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor at the Cass County Psychological Center in Harrisonville, Mo.
“I was a stay at home mom for about a year,” said Miller. “I knew that was not where I needed to stay, so when I saw the open position at Northwestern I thought ‘Well, it can’t hurt to put in an application.’ I had heard a lot of good things about Northwestern, especially in the Psychology Department.”
Currently working toward her doctorate degree, Miller is most excited about being able to interact with students.
“I want to both help them and test them at the same time. I love to see the light bulbs turn on and then be able to help them put the puzzle together. I want them to see how this field applies to them not just in psychology, but wherever they want to go.”
Miller believes high expectations are necessary for her students to be successful, not only in the classroom but in other aspects of their careers.
“I want my students to know that I will challenge them. I’m not trying to be the bad guy. My responsibility as a teacher is to help my students to be able to back up what they believe and communicate why they believe that. I want them to be challenged to go back and analyze why they are doing what they are doing.
“I hold pretty high expectations. I want them to attend class and participate in discussions both in class and online. I don’t want it to be where the students just show up and then leave. Actually engaging in class will really impact not only the classroom experience, but in any area of their lives.”
The mother of a busy 14-month-old son, Miller is navigating motherhood and starting a new job in a new place.
“My son is discovering anything and everything, while learning independence. So, that’s a lot of fun. My husband is the pastor at the Waynoka (Okla.) Baptist Church and works full time.
“Moving to Waynoka was a great thing for my family. I’m excited to be here and excited to see where this position takes me. I hope to meet new people and still get to see my family back home. I hope that my students feel comfortable to come talk to me no matter the topic. I want to be here for my students.”