Veteran finds purpose in social work after military service

After serving in the military, Rachel Miller returned home to South Shore, Kentucky, feeling uncertain about her next steps. It wasn’t until she began receiving support from a social worker at the Hershel Woody Williams VA in Huntington, West Virginia, that her future path became clear.

“They showed kindness, empathy, and compassion,” she said. “I felt a strong drive to want to help others in the ways that a social worker helped me at a vulnerable time in my life.”

That experience inspired Miller to pursue a career in social work. She earned both an associate’s degree in human services technology and a bachelor’s degree in social work from Ohio University Southern. Her dedication was recognized when she was named the Outstanding Graduate of the Human Services Technology Program.

Now, Miller is preparing for the next step in her journey. She will begin her Master of Social Work program at the University of Pikeville, where she hopes to expand her skills and continue making a difference in her community.

Outstanding Graduate of the Human Services Technology Program

Miller attributes much of her success to her strong support system.

“My faith in God and my husband, Christian, have been my number one supporters throughout this journey,” she said. “Christian was my guinea pig, proofreader, and would always be cheering me on, even when I didn’t believe in myself.”

There were times when the journey wasn’t easy.

“Last semester, I went through some difficult events that almost caused me to drop out,” she said. “But those who stuck behind me and lifted me up helped me achieve my goals. I would like to instill that kindness toward others I will encounter.”

Dr. Joy Shytle also played a significant role in Miller’s time at OHIO Southern. One of Miller's favorite memories was meeting at Dr. Shytle’s home for a movie night with the Student Social Work Association, where they cooked dinner together and planned group events.

“It was like a second family to me,” she said.

Embrace the experience

Reflecting on her journey, Miller says her time at OHIO Southern gave her more than just academic knowledge – It built her confidence.

“I have learned that you either quit or keep going. They both hurt, but how beautiful the achievement is to graduate with honors when you struggled with schooling and life in the past,” she said. “My self-confidence has blossomed from the help of my classmates and professors. They built me up when I was way too hard on myself.”

Her advice to future students is to embrace the experience fully.

“Take the leap. Be vulnerable, try new things, take the class, talk to the person who sits behind you, volunteer, be inspired, and never, ever give up,” she said.

For Miller, being an OHIO graduate is more than a degree. It is a key to new possibilities, and it comes with a responsibility to use her education meaningfully, empowering and inspiring others to chase their dreams and aspirations in life.