National Nurses Week Student Spotlight: Olivia Miley

Olivia Miley, a full-time student in her 3rd year at The University of Akron Wayne College, based her decision to attend UA Wayne on two main factors: the accredited nursing program and the number of scholarships she was able to receive through UA Wayne. “It was a big surprise for me to find out how many scholarships and ways to lower tuition there are at Wayne. Everyone here works to make it an affordable experience, which was a huge factor in my decision for choosing this campus.” She also wanted to go to a smaller campus where the class sizes were smaller, and where staff would know her name.

The words “love” and “fun” come up quite a lot when Olivia talks about UA Wayne and her experiences at college. When discussing her major and the nursing degree program that she can take completely at the Wayne campus, she said, “I love the hands-on experience in the nursing program. We have a wonderful nursing coordinator, Mary Burton, and she has made school so much fun!”

The people are another reason Olivia loves UA Wayne College. “The staff are very welcoming and are always there for you. There are people in your corner willing to support you throughout your academic career.” Olivia also loves the opportunities to get involved on campus and enjoys hanging out in the library, which is one of her favorite places on campus.

Olivia is a student employee and works in the Student Services Center and in the nursing labs. She likes the behind-the-scenes work and sees how much planning and coordinating goes into events on campus. “Being part of that process is so much fun!” A self-described small-town girl from Smithville, Olivia loves animals, travel, being outdoors and playing golf. She also has a photography business that she enjoys.

With the goal of graduating in May of 2026 and passing her NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination), Olivia plans on getting a job in the healthcare field as an RN. “I am unsure of a specific specialty, but I know I would like to get my master’s and obtain my NP. I would also like to travel the world as a nurse!”