Prestigious Alumna Visits OU

 

Millie Miller with OU psychology students. Back Row: Dr. Robby Stewart, Jennifer Kelley, Joi-Sheree Knighton, Nick Wrobel, Ms. Millie Miller, Jacqueline Craite, Christopher Clark, Maria Gambino Front Row: Christine Nguyen, Melanie Phillips, Stacey Sieraczynski, Katie Maguire

After taking nine years of night classes while working full time, Millie Miller (CAS’86) graduated with a degree in psychology. At a recent return visit to Oakland University, Miller talked about the importance of her degree at a presentation to students and faculty. “Psychology was not my first choice as a major, but it was the best choice for me,” she said. At the time, Miller did not realize the significant impact a liberal arts education would have on her life and career.

A liberal arts degree, such as one in psychology, is in growing demand across the country’s leading higher education institutions. “This is a form of learning that prepares students to handle challenges, diversity and change that will come their way during their lifetime,” Ronald Sudol, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences said. “Students establish strong communication and problem solving skills as well as a sense of ethics and values through this learning style.”

Miller discovered that this knowledge and collection of skills were vital for surviving the corporate world. She began to successfully put her skills and knowledge to work for her. In 2005, her hard work and dedication was acknowledged when she was named staff vice president of Human Resources and Executive Compensation for General Dynamics, a Fortune 100 Company.

During her presentation, Miller explained to students that psychology taught her more than theories and research procedures. She learned the importance of thinking outside of the box and how to use her psychology degree to her advantage. Skills such as observing and analyzing people’s behaviors helped Miller understand and anticipate her co-workers’ reactions. Even courses she thought she would never use, including statistics, have proven to be key to her success.

Miller credits OU for providing her with a distinctive liberal arts education. “Oakland taught me the importance of learning to learn and learning to think.”