Name: Hannah Miller
Hometown: Shickley, NE
Affiliated Fund: Shickley Community Foundation Fund
School: University of Nebraska-Lincoln
What excites you most about returning for another summer as a Hometown Intern?
The people within my fund welcomed me back with open arms for year two! This is what makes living in a small-town intriguing; the door is always open. Coming back to Shickley allowed me to jump-in right where I left off last year. My favorite part of the internship is working alongside the other Shickley Intern, Mariah We share many memories together growing up; now as adults we are able to work together to help our town prosper. Last year we left a list of potential missions for future interns, and we just so happened to be the ones that wanted to fulfill those tasks.
What did you learn about yourself and your community during your internship last summer?
I thrive in environments where I feel connected to the people that I am serving. As interns, we worked closely with business owners, community leaders, and the youth. This gave me a front-row seat to see how much people cared for one another. Whether organizing youth events, helping with fundraising, or interviewing community members, I saw how service-oriented these local people were. Even in a town of just over 300 people, generosity has always stuck out to me. This reminded me how important connections are—both professionally and personally. Even after another year of going to college, I feel connected to this place I call home.
If you were describing your hometown to a potential visitor, what would you say?
When most people hear the words “small town” they most likely think about a laid-back lifestyle, locally owned businesses, and people offering a friendly wave. Even though Shickley consists of all these things, there are still hidden gems that not everyone knows about. Other assets include the 50 Flags Veterans Memorial, a newly renovated Westside Park, the new housing development, and murals on main street. Shickley’s history consists of older generations that have taken the time to upkeep our lively town. Friends and family have found a way to enjoy everything that our town has to offer.
Everyone has gifts and talents to share. What do you hope to share with your hometown this summer?
I have the privilege of serving as a Hometown Intern for another summer. This gives me another chance to share my passion for leadership, youth education, and community engagement with my hometown of Shickley. Going into the field of education has helped me develop a creative mindset. I have also discovered a love for marketing—especially when it comes to sharing stories through community interviews. I’ve consistently enjoyed stepping into leadership experiences within activities and organizations in my community. Whether it’s collaborating with Mariah or other clubs/businesses, I have learned that two minds are better than one.
What should older adults know about your generation of Nebraskans?
Even though generations may see the world differently, we still value a lot of the same things—family, community, and being a good neighbor. Young people want to be involved; often, they’re just waiting for an invitation. Younger individuals are quick to go from strangers to friends. Getting people of all ages together in a creative space can be the spark for meaningful change. Through this internship, I’ve met younger Nebraskans, specifically those in rural communities, that are full of energy and ideas.
How does belonging play a role in your attachment to your hometown?
My sense of belonging didn’t fade after going to college and coming back for the summer. I’m not returning as just a former student, but as someone who can give back in new ways. My family has deep roots in this place that I call home. I walked the same school halls as my grandparents and dad. The contributions that my family has made to this town inspired me to want to follow in their footsteps. This internship experience has created a full-circle moment for me and reminds me why this place has always felt like home.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future of your community?
Each year Shickley continues to move forward in a positive way. Main street is lined with businesses that are lively, and it is exciting to see young people—even entrepreneurs—start their journeys here. The new housing development is attracting people that want to raise a family here. It’s meaningful to see Shickley alumni find their way back to their hometown. I imagine a future where classrooms are full, events draw large crowds, and businesses are flourishing. Our town is filled with ambitious people that are committed to making Shickley the best place to work, play, and retire.
What are you looking for in a place to call home?
Experiencing different parts of the world made me appreciate that my parents chose to raise me in rural Nebraska. When thinking about what makes a place feel like home, it’s less about the physical location and more about the people. I am drawn to the communities that invest in young people. A place that focuses on the town’s culture, student involvement, and educational opportunities are other things to consider. The town of Shickley is a great example of how to draw people into a community. It’s the people of this place that create a welcoming feeling.
If you were designing a future for yourself in your hometown, what would that look like?
Right now, I am pursuing majors in Elementary & Special Education, with a minor in Leadership & Communication. In the future, I plan to teach within the general education classroom in a rural community. Over the years I have enjoyed staying active in organizations and serving as a positive role model for younger people. Being around other emerging leaders motivates me to keep growing and giving back. I believe that greater Nebraska offers the perfect environment to live, work, and make a difference.
What’s a piece of advice you have for first year Hometown Interns?
During this transitional part of your life, find joy in giving back to a place that helped shape you into the person that you are today. You said “YES” to the first part, which was coming back to work as a Hometown Intern. Now, say “YES” to being a part of the ideas and work of a change-making organization. If you have an idea, you are backed by other adults that can share their tools and wisdom to make your idea come to life.
