MARIETTA, OHIO — For Allison Milligan, attending college wasn’t just the next step, it was a goal years in the making. Now enrolled in Washington State College of Ohio’s (WSCO) Practical Nursing (LPN) program, she is turning that long-held dream into a reality.
Set to graduate in May 2026, Milligan is pursuing a career in nursing while balancing work, family, and the daily responsibilities of being a non-traditional student and a mother of four. Her journey is a testament to perseverance, proving that it’s never too late to further your education.
Her passion for healthcare began early, shaped by personal experiences and a natural desire to care for others. Over time, that passion only grew stronger, ultimately motivating her to return to school. “I’ve wanted this for a long time,” Milligan shared. “I feel like I’ve waited long enough, and now I’m determined to see it through.”
Choosing WSCO allowed Milligan to stay close to home in Marietta while enrolling in a program known for its strong pass rates. That accessibility has made it possible for her to pursue her education without stepping away from her responsibilities at home.
Outside the classroom, Milligan works as a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) at Selby General Hospital, where she cares for post-operative patients on the medical-surgical unit. Working closely with individuals recovering from procedures—particularly orthopedic surgeries—she gains hands-on experience that directly reinforces what she’s learning in class.
Rather than separating work and school, Milligan has instead found a way to connect the two. The concepts she studies such as body systems, patient care, and recovery are the same ones she encounters every day on the job. That connection became especially clear during her Health Alterations course, one of the most impactful parts of the program so far.
“That particular course really helped me understand what’s happening in the body and why patients feel the way they do,” she said. “I can take what I’m learning and apply it directly at work.”
Still, the journey hasn’t come without challenges. Between raising children, managing a household, and keeping up with the demands of a rigorous nursing program, Milligan has had to make difficult adjustments, including reducing her work hours to stay focused on school.
“Balancing everything is challenging,” she said. “You have to stay focused and be willing to make sacrifices, but it’s worth it.”
Looking ahead, Milligan plans to continue her education through WSCO’s Bridge: LPN to RN program. She is especially excited about gaining experience in new clinical areas such as obstetrics, intensive care, and cardiac care, expanding both her skills and understanding of the healthcare field.
Throughout her time at WSCO, Milligan has leaned on the support systems around her. From instructors who take the time to break down complex material to classmates who offer new perspectives, she has found strength in collaboration. At home, her fiancé has played an important role, helping manage responsibilities so she can stay focused on her education.
For those considering going back to school, her advice is simple: don’t give up. “Try your hardest, use your resources, and keep going no matter what,” she said.
Milligan’s story is one of persistence, purpose, and resilience. By choosing to pursue her education now, she is not only working toward a career in healthcare but also fulfilling a goal she has carried with her for years, proving that determination can turn even long-delayed dreams into reality.
