Riley McMillan’s advice to new Shockers: “If you have the ability to do so, say “yes” to every opportunity that comes your way; you will not regret it.” She’s spent her time at Wichita State doing just that with a full menu of experiences, including cancer research, as a student ambassador and as a Shocker Navigator.
Riley is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring 2026 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.
What degree will you be earning in May?
Bachelor of Science in biological sciences and Bachelor of Science in public health sciences
What is your hometown?
Concordia, Kansas
What schools did you attend before coming to Wichita State?
Concordia High School
What made you choose Wichita State University?
I first stepped foot onto Wichita State University when I tagged along on my older sister’s campus tour. I was immediately in love with the campus and told my mom that day I would attend college at WSU. Fast forward to when I was in high school and looking at colleges, I was still in love with Wichita State and its campus, faculty and opportunities. I am so grateful that I chose to be a Shocker, as I feel WSU has set me up for success.
Did you receive any scholarships to attend Wichita State?
I received merit scholarships from Wichita State University and the Dorothy and Bill Cohen Honors College. However, my largest scholarship was the Dane Hansen Scholarship, designated for students from North Central Kansas. Thanks to the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and the additional scholarships from my community foundation and Wichita State, I did not need to worry about paying for college and could focus on performing well in my classes and being involved.
What applied learning experiences did you participate in during your time here?
I participated in undergraduate research, studying in a cancer biology laboratory under Dr. William Hendry. I studied immunohistochemical analysis of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. I loved my experience, and it really allowed me to delve into a topic of interest and work independently. I encourage anyone interested in research to give it a shot, as they may find a new passion. I also worked in the admissions office as an admissions student assistant and currently work as a Shocker Navigator. Although these positions may not be related to my future career in dentistry, they have given me excellent opportunities to improve my communication and problem-solving skills.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
I always tell both current and prospective students to say “yes” to every opportunity. Wichita State University offers so much to students, including applied learning, internships, study abroad, interesting classes, organizations and leadership. If you have the ability to do so, say “yes” to every opportunity that comes your way; you will not regret it.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will continue my education at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics to pursue my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree.
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 25,000 students between its main campus and the WSU Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech), including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student-centered and innovation-driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students. The National Science Foundation ranked WSU No. 1 in the nation for aerospace engineering R&D, No. 2 for industry- and defense-funded engineering R&D and No. 9 overall for engineering R&D.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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