Rachel Milnark, U'16

What have you been up to since graduating from Saint Mary?

Since graduating from Saint Mary, I have been working in nursing and continuing to grow both professionally and personally. My career path has allowed me to gain hands-on experience in caring for diverse populations while also taking on leadership responsibilities. I have also pursued additional education and professional development to expand my skill set and better serve my community.

What is your current job or role, and what do you enjoy most about it?

I currently serve as a Coordinator of Nursing within a school district, supporting students from early childhood through young adulthood. What I enjoy most is the opportunity to advocate for student health, collaborate with families and educators, and make a meaningful impact on students’ ability to succeed in school by ensuring their health needs are met.

How did your time at Saint Mary prepare you for your career?

Saint Mary provided a strong foundation through its rigorous academic curriculum, supportive faculty, and emphasis on compassionate, patient-centered care. The program challenged me to think critically, communicate effectively, and approach healthcare with both professionalism and empathy—skills I use daily in my career.

What is a memorable experience you had during your time at Saint Mary?

One of my most memorable experiences at Saint Mary was the strong sense of community within the nursing program. In addition to long clinical days and studying together, I especially loved the culture potluck we started in one of our classes. What began as a way to share our backgrounds and connect with one another quickly turned into more potlucks—mostly because we were in class all day and everyone appreciated good food. Those moments of connection, laughter, and support made the experience even more meaningful.

Have you stayed in touch with any of your professors or classmates?

Yes, I have stayed in touch with several classmates, and I continue to value the professional and personal connections formed during my time at Saint Mary. Interestingly, in a full-circle moment, I have also had the opportunity to care for some of my former nursing school classmates’ children while working in a pediatric doctor’s office, which has been both rewarding and a reminder of how small and interconnected the nursing community truly is.

What advice would you give to current students or recent graduates?

My advice would be to stay curious, be open to opportunities you may not have initially planned for, and never underestimate the value of mentorship. Nursing and healthcare careers are not always linear, but every experience contributes to your growth and confidence.

Are there any achievements or milestones you would like to share with the Saint Mary community?

While I am proud of earning my master’s degree in nursing and working in a leadership role, my biggest and most valued achievement has been becoming a mom and raising my son. Motherhood has shaped who I am both personally and professionally, strengthening my empathy, perspective, and passion for caring for others.

How do you stay connected with the Saint Mary alumni network?

I stay connected through alumni communications and social media and I enjoy seeing the accomplishments of fellow alumni.

What hobbies or interests are you currently pursuing?

Outside of work, I enjoy creating memories and having meaningful experiences with my son. Becoming a parent has influenced both my personal life and professional goals, and since having my son, some of my passions within nursing have shifted. I am now following that calling by exploring opportunities that align more closely with family-centered care, women’s health, and supporting parents during pivotal stages of life.

Do you have any favorite Saint Mary traditions that you still cherish?

While I don’t recall any specific traditions, I am deeply thankful for the relationships I continue to have with some of my former professors. I have also loved the opportunity to give back to Saint Mary by hosting nursing students and serving as a preceptor or mentor for senior leadership projects. Being able to support and guide students as they transition into professional practice has been incredibly rewarding.

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