Meet Chelsea Miller

How one exercise science student combines academics and service to make a difference 

For Chelsea Miller, a sophomore exercise science major, the connection between academic study and community service isn't just theoretical — it's a daily practice that's shaping her future career in occupational therapy. 

Miller, originally from Dublin, Ohio, is part of Belmont's accelerated 3+3 Occupational Therapy program, which allows students to complete both their undergraduate and graduate degrees in six years rather than the traditional seven. 

"I chose exercise science because I wanted to help people," Miller said. "I knew that was the main thing I wanted to focus on in my career." 

Her journey to Belmont and occupational therapy wasn't straightforward. Miller initially planned to attend the University of Pittsburgh for physical therapy until a chance recommendation led her to visit Belmont. 

"It was kind of a crazy God thing, to be honest," Miller explained. "My brother plays college baseball, and his host mom suggested I look at Belmont. I visited with the Exercise Science department, loved all the people I talked to, and it just felt like the right spot." 

Discovering Her Passion for Relational Work 

Once at Belmont, Miller realized her passion lay more in occupational therapy than physical therapy.  

"When I shadowed occupational therapy, I realized I would get to have a real relationship with my patients,” she said. “It just felt much more personable, and I feel like I'm much more that type of person." 

Now in her second year, Miller is applying what she's learning in courses like Kinesiology and Optimizing Human Performance through an internship at KidPro, an autism behavioral analysis clinic. 

"It's cool to see how things translate," Miller said. "In class, we learn exercises that help strengthen shoulders and arms, which helps when working with kids who struggle putting on shirts and panic when it gets stuck on their head." 

This hands-on application exemplifies the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences' commitment to purposeful teaching, where faculty intentionally design learning experiences that connect theory directly to practice.  

Through this pedagogical approach, students like Miller don't just memorize concepts but understand their real-world impact, preparing them to become health care professionals who can adapt their knowledge to diverse patient needs.  

Putting Love into Action 

Beyond academics, Miller has made significant contributions to the Nashville community through Love Does in Action, the first college chapter of Bob Goff's Love Does nonprofit. While the international organization works in conflict zones, Love Does in Action focuses on local service. 

"Love isn't stationary. Love does," Miller explained, referencing the organization's philosophy. "Everything we do is service-oriented, with the goal of loving on our community in the best way possible." 

As part of the club's leadership team, Miller helps organize partnerships with local nonprofits like People Loving Nashville, which serves the homeless community through various outreach programs. 

"On Monday nights, we go downtown, shut a street down and they have food, medical care, showers and clothing," Miller said. "These experiences are incredibly valuable because they help us develop empathy and adaptability that you can't learn from a textbook.” 

The club also works with Brighten Up, delivering gifts and flowers to widows on Valentine's Day, and is currently fundraising for Ukrainian refugees attending a Love Does school in Poland. 

Miller sees clear connections between her service work and future career in occupational therapy.  

"I've learned more about how to interact with different populations, and I've gained perspective on how to love people differently based on their circumstances, which will translate into OT with different patients," she said.  

Building Community Through Shared Purpose 

While balancing rigorous academics and extensive service commitments presents challenges, Miller finds strength in the community she's built with fellow students in the 3+3 program. 

"Our class is really tight-knit and does a lot together," she said. "That community aspect is really rewarding. We've been able to go through every class together, and all of us have great relationships with our professors." 

Her advice to prospective exercise science students? "Get plugged into community, build relationships with your professors right away and be comfortable being challenged." 

Looking ahead, Miller plans to eventually specialize in pediatrics, working in an outpatient clinic or hospital setting. 

Through her academic pursuits and commitment to service, Miller exemplifies Belmont's emphasis on developing health care professionals who excel not just in clinical knowledge, but in compassionate, community-focused care.