Aerial view of campus with Williamsport, the Susquehanna River and Bald Eagle Mountain as a backdrop

In the Spotlight: Rachel Miller ’16

Rachel Miller ’16 developed her passion for particle physics while studying physics and astronomy at Lycoming College, and today she’s putting that passion to work as a scientist at STERIS, a leading global provider of products and services that support patient care with an emphasis on infection prevention. “I am helping hospitals and playing a role in saving lives every day!”

Why did you choose to attend Lycoming College?

My parents and I drove up to visit one day before I settled on a college. It was a busy morning and afternoon, and there was a point where I was attending a lecture by Dr. Kulp and Dr. Fisher, and my parents went off to explore the campus. When the lecture ended, I couldn't find them anywhere! I walked out of the AC, and there were my parents wearing “Lyco Mom” and “Lyco Dad” shirts. I was like, “Well, I suppose I'm going here!” I think they knew I was going to choose Lycoming before I even knew.

What is one of your favorite memories, classes, professors, or activities while attending Lycoming as a student?

Dance Club brought a lot of great memories. Dr. Fisher always walking quickly into the lab in the evenings with some piece of equipment saying, “I want to try something!” Or Dr. Chandler's ability to make learning history so much fun by being so animated and bringing the best energy every single day. Oh, and how I was able to create my own course with Dr. Fisher on x-ray astronomy!

How has your education at Lycoming influenced or helped you in your life and career?

My passion for particle physics developed at Lycoming. I always loved physics, but it was very generalized. It wasn't until I took quantum mechanics and modern physics that my interests became focused, and it helped me choose a more specific career path.

What are one or two of your proudest professional or personal accomplishments that occurred after graduating from Lycoming in which your education played a role?

I'm most proud of my current position as a scientist at STERIS. I've been here for over four years, and I'm using my modern physics and nuclear/particle physics knowledge to operate and maintain two electron beam systems with which I dose map human tissue, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. I am helping hospitals and playing a role in saving lives every day!

How do you give back or engage with Lycoming?

I give quarterly donations to the College, and I try to attend events every few years.

In the Spotlight recognizes members of our alumni community who are doing great things that have been influenced by their time at Lycoming College. Alumni Spotlight submissions are used at the discretion of the College and may be included in the monthly eNews as space and time permit. To participate, submit an Alumni Spotlight questionnaire.