Student of the Month: Kathleen Miller

Meet Kathleen Miller, Humanities and Social Sciences Student of the Month

Hometown: Fayetteville, NC

Class:  Senior

Major: Political Science (Law and Justice)

Minor: Criminology

Sample Courses:

• Supreme Court and Public Policy
• Equality and Justice in United States Law
• Multicultural Social Work

Activities:

• Chancellor’s Liaison, 2017-18
• Vice President, National Pan-Hellenic Council, 2017-18
• Member, College of Humanities and Social Sciences Diversity Advisory Committee, 2017-18
• Treasurer (2017-18) and President (2016-17), NC State DanceVisions Dance Company
• Political Awareness Chair and Custodian, Mu Omicron Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, 2016-18
• President, CHASS-MAS (Multicultural Association for Students), 2016-17
• LeaderShape Institute, Summer 2016
• Orientation Leader, New Student Programs, Summer 2015

Honors:

Dean’s List

Postgraduate/Career Goal:  I plan to attend law school to become an attorney who works with underrepresented communities. Eventually, I would like to become a judge or district attorney. 

Why did you select Humanities and Social Sciences?

Initially,  I knew my intended major was political science. I also liked the flexibility associated with a Humanities and Social Sciences major. The college does a great job of allotting space for electives and GEPs toward classes that students may find interesting outside of their specific major, letting them develop other interests. 

What has been your favorite course?

Racial and Ethnic Relations (SOC 305), taught by Monica Bixby. I absolutely loved how she catered to the specific group of students she had that semester. She also gave us an opportunity to assist her in writing an article she was working on getting peer reviewed. I appreciated her willingness to have an open and honest dialogue about a topic that some people find uncomfortable. The course itself made me question my own understanding of history, and Professor Bixby will forever be one of my favorite professors. 

What do you enjoy most about Humanities and Social Sciences?

I enjoy the welcoming environment this college’s students and faculty try to create on campus. The staff I have interacted with have always been willing to listen to my concerns and allow me to be a part of conversations with individuals who have the power to implement positive changes.  My interactions with Joe Johnson, the CHASS-MAS advisor, have positively shaped my experience here. Mr. Johnson has provided me with so much advice and multiple opportunities that have helped me thrive not only as a student but as an individual. His words of affirmation consistently motivate me to do my best, which is something all college students should feel driven to do. 

 What has been your biggest challenge at NC State?

One of my biggest challenges has been maintaining a balance between helping others and taking care of myself. It took me a while to learn that I can say no sometimes, especially when I know I will be neglecting my own responsibilities in order to assist someone else. I had to recognize that I should have my own best interest at heart because self-care is imperative. I will not be in a position to help others if I am not taking care of myself. 

What advice would you give incoming students?

Do not be afraid of growth. As college students, we will be faced with many obstacles, but it is up to us to decide how we let these problems impact us. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone because uncomfortable situations often result in maturation.