Ask me about...
Study abroad, pre-med track and research on campus.
Hi, my name is Jackston Milligan Nance, although most people call me Milligan, and I am a junior biological sciences major and Stamps Scholar. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy traveling, spending time with friends and making the most of the opportunities college has to offer. After graduation, I plan to attend medical school to become a general practitioner and pursue a career focused on making a meaningful impact in my community.
- Hometown: Orangeburg, South Carolina
- Major: Biological Sciences (pre-med)
- Year: Class of 2028
Why I chose the South Carolina Honors College
I chose the Honors College because of the unique opportunities provided through the Top Scholar program, the exceptional resources available to support students throughout their academic journey and the engaging courses. The combination of personalized academic support, opportunities for leadership and professional development and a strong community of high achieving students made the Honors College stand out to me as a place where I could grow both academically and personally. In addition, I really enjoy the beyond the classroom options, the smaller class sizes and the unique classes they offer.
My advice for prospective students: My advice to prospective students is to have confidence in your goals and not let other people's opinions dictate the direction of your future. Be open to constructive criticism and listen to different perspectives, but ultimately, you are the one who has to live with the decisions you make. Take the time to understand what you want, what matters most to you and what will help you grow, and then have the courage to pursue the path that is right for you – even if it looks different from what others expect.
Favorite question during an information session: How hard is it to keep a job while in college?
It is very manageable to balance a job, do well in your classes and still have a social life, as long as you practice good time management and know your limits. Being proactive about planning your work and communicating when you need help can make a huge difference. The Honors College also helps support this balance by allowing students to register for classes early, giving you more flexibility to build a schedule that works well with your academic, work and personal schedules.
Favorite Honors class: My favorite Honors class was my Maymester Study Abroad to South Korea on Contemporary Art and Culture. This trip allowed me to explore Korean history, culture, art and daily life in ways that I could never have experienced from a classroom alone. Throughout our time in Seoul and Busan, I visited historic sites such as temples, palaces and traditional markets, and experienced modern Korea through museums, contemporary art galleries and vibrant city life. One of the most meaningful aspects of the trip was experiencing such a different culture and environment than what I am used to. I also gained a deeper appreciation for Korean art, especially through museum visits, where I encountered both historical works and contemporary pieces that challenged my understanding of creativity and expression. Beyond academics, I enjoyed interacting with local culture through Korean food, tea ceremonies, cooking classes and conversations with people I met along the way. Traveling with my classmates and professors created lasting friendships and memorable experiences that strengthened both my personal and academic growth. The trip broadened my perspective on the world and helped me better understand the importance of different cultures.
Favorite Honors bucket list item or experience: One of my favorite Honors experiences was my Honors University 101 class, which went to Aruba for fall break.
Quick Facts
| My clubs and organizations: | Black Honors Caucus, Community Outreach Chair Mentorship and Outreach Student Team, Membership Committee Health Occupations Students of America Top Scholar Mentor Undergraduate Research |
| Your most clutch item for dorm life: | My most clutch item for dorm life was my TV; I always had friends coming over to watch different games and events together. |
| Favorite place for lunch on or near campus: | My favorite place to eat near campus is Market on Main, and I love their lobster rolls with truffle fries. |
| Skill I'd like to develop more: | Learning to skate backwards. |