GRATITUDE: Shayna Miller
Assuming she would have to pay her way through college, Shayna Miller, ’23, never expected the opportunities that Northwestern would make available.
As a freshman from Tuttle, Okla., attending Camp Ranger gave her the chance of a lifetime. At that event, Caleb Mossburg, Dean of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, selected Miller to receive the Oklahoma Academic Scholar Award. She considers it a significant blessing in her life.
“It was a total confirmation that I was in the right place,” said Miller. “I will graduate with my Bachelor’s Degree in English Education owing nothing.”
In third grade she knew that she wanted to be a teacher, later realizing English was the subject she loved.
“Before going into a classroom as a teacher, I watched my siblings go through moments in school where they weren’t listened to and needed extra support. It fueled my passion for teaching even more because I want to be there for those students who need help. One of my strengths is meeting students where they are and developing relationships with them while I am helping them.”
During her own educational journey, campus life took work for Miller.
“My first year here was COVID-19, so we wore masks which was difficult. I struggled with the social aspect of college, and I was going home every weekend. My sophomore year, I decided it would be different.”
Campus involvement has been vital to her happiness. A member of the President’s Leadership Class and the Northwestern Scholar Ambassadors, she enjoys helping with Camp Ranger and Ranger Preview days.
Miller has lived in Cunningham Hall throughout college, and a special highlight was speaking at the dorm’s dedication ceremony recognizing former Northwestern president Dr. Janet Cunningham. Miller also relishes her relationships and experiences as a student worker for the Housing Department.
“I have so many great memories here because of the opportunities and wide variety of people I’ve met.”
Miller plans to obtain her master’s degree in Educational Leadership at Northwestern, focusing on getting her principal’s certification.
“I’m so proud of myself for accomplishing this dream,” shared Miller. It’s very humbling. I feel such a deep sense of gratefulness for this school.”