Nicholas McMillan Heeds Calling to Serve Others

Naturally altruistic, Nicholas McMillan gravitates toward projects where he can help others. For him, the Bastyr's bachelor's completion program in health psychology has been a natural extension of that inclination.

Before enrolling at Bastyr, Nicholas worked for Americorps from 1997-1999. During his service, Nicholas' projects included supervising Special Olympics athletes and building homes for Habitat for Humanity. "It was fun, fulfilling and I learned so much," he says. "I also traveled a lot."

After Americorps, Nicholas attended Wenatchee Valley College to earn the prerequisite credits necessary for enrolling at Bastyr.

Nicholas has noticed a few similarities between Bastyr and Americorps. "The small classes in psychology are like being in a team with Americorps," he says. "You get a lot of attention, and your voice is actually heard in this program."

Overall, the emphasis on community and caring at Bastyr has suited Nicholas well. He also has appreciated the great instructors in the program, and particularly his Ecopsychology class. "We all felt that this class summarized what the program is about," he says. Another satisfying element of the program has been his research project on the effects of coping strategies on children with type I diabetes. In addition, his practicum in the day care program, located on site at the university, has helped shape his career goals.

The program has a reasonable price tag, too. "When I researched it, Bastyr's psychology program cost about the same as University of Washington," he says.

Nicholas has also appreciated the helpful and attentive nature of the financial aid, registrar and admissions departments. "They always extend their hands to you and ask what they can do for you," he says.

Speaking of being helpful, does he have any help to offer students considering the program? "Attending an open house really helped me," he suggests.

With graduation drawing near, Nicholas is sorting through career options. He may obtain a master's degree and become a school counselor. He also is interested in working in the nonprofit sector or in schools helping to create community programs. "I may work for Americorps again," he adds.

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