Jackson, MI — As Baker College prepares for commencement, we continue to spotlight outstanding student award winners. Next in the series is Julissa Milukhin who is recognized for her achievements and impact, as she prepares to cross the stage and begin the next chapter.
For Milukhin, earning a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Baker College is far more than receiving a diploma. It is the culmination of a journey decades in the making.
A first-generation college graduate, Milukhin’s path to commencement was shaped by perseverance, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to both her family and the children she has dedicated her life to serving. After becoming a young mother, and later raising two daughters as a stay-at-home mom, she discovered the profound impact adults can have on a child’s development.
“I didn’t always have the right mentors or support,” Milukhin shared. “I was determined to break cycles of trauma and raise my girls differently and with intention.”
That determination led her to immerse herself in books, research, and learning which eventually uncovered a passion for early childhood education that would become her lifelong career. For more than two decades, after moving to Jackson, Michigan from California, Milukhin worked in the field while continuing to pursue her degree, balancing school, work, and motherhood along the way.
“There were many times I had to stop school and start again because, as a mother, especially as a single mother, you sacrifice everything you can for the betterment of your children,” she said.
Throughout her journey, Milukhin found support in what she describes as her “village.” That village included faculty members such as Dr. Mertic, mentors in the early childhood education field, the ISD in Jackson County, and early childhood specialist Cathy Brubaker, who she credits with helping guide and encourage her along the way.
Most importantly, she says, her children inspired her to continue. “My children reminded me that once they were grown, it was finally time for me to do something for myself,” she said.
During her time at Baker College, Milukhin also found opportunities to advocate for the field she loves. One of her proudest accomplishments was collaborating with the Detroit Free Press on articles related to early childhood education, helping bring awareness to issues surrounding wages, benefits, and the realities preschool teachers face every day.
After graduation, Milukhin plans to continue advocating for early childhood educators and working to address disparities within the profession. “I want to study the data, understand the systems, and hopefully help create meaningful change,” she said. “I truly believe my future work lies in making sure children and families can access preschool and that teachers have the support they need to be successful.”
Being named Baker College’s First-Generation Student of the Year holds deep personal meaning for Milukhin, especially as she reflects on her journey.
“This award acknowledges my life’s work had meaning and purpose,” she said. “My educational journey signifies more than just earning a degree. It’s been my path to rediscovering my identity, my confidence, and my mission.”
Milukhin says graduation represents resilience, courage, and persistence. Attached to her graduation stole is a photo of her younger self which is a reminder of how far she has come. “For the first time in my life, I finally showed up for myself,” she said. “It took me a lifetime to get here.”
She also credits her daughter, Alexie Milukhin, who recently received a Master’s Degree in Public Policy, for helping her cross the finish line. “She took it upon herself to personally tutor me every Sunday throughout the last few years,” Milukhin shared. Regarding advice she would give to other Baker students, she says: “Stay the course. Through ups, through downs, and through challenges, rely on those you love and your ‘why’ to finish strong.”
Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on six campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more about the College of Education, and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram.