51ĀŅĀ×

When Miley Gardner enrolled at 51ĀŅĀ× Eastern to study human biology, she didnā€™t anticipate starting a family tradition. But her decision inspired her twin sisters, Gracie and Lanie, to follow in her footsteps. Now, all three sisters are building their futures togetherā€”right on the same campus.

For the Gardners, the choice to attend OHIO Eastern was about more than academics. Affordability, flexibility, and proximity to family made the regional campus a smart and supportive option. Miley, a junior, is studying human biology. Her twin sisters, Gracie and Lanie, are wrapping up their first year, each charting her own course while sharing the experience of college life side by side.

ā€œWhen I first applied, I wasnā€™t sure what I wanted to study,ā€ Miley said. ā€œ51ĀŅĀ× Eastern was a good starting point to help me decide what I wanted to do.ā€

Gracie echoed that feeling, describing the campus as ā€œa great place to take basic classes while I figured out what I wanted to do.ā€

Lanie, who plans to transfer to West Liberty University for dental hygiene, said the small, supportive environment helped her feel grounded in her first year.

ā€œIt felt like the right place to lay a strong foundation for my future,ā€ she said.

Staying close to home also played a central role in their decision.

ā€œBeing close to home, especially for my first year, was ideal,ā€ Gracie said. ā€œI wanted to experience college life while still being so close to my family.ā€

Though they share a campus, each sister is on a distinct academic path. Inspired by her high school anatomy and biology courses, Miley is preparing for graduate school with a goal of becoming a physician assistant. Lanieā€™s interest in health sciences led her to the pre-med track as preparation for a future in dental hygiene. Gracie is still exploring her options, grateful for the flexibility that allows her to take time deciding on a career direction.

Being together has created a strong support system for the sisters.

ā€œGoing to the same school makes it easier to communicate about our busy days and schedules,ā€ Gracie said. ā€œItā€™s helpful to have my sisters to lean on during difficult decisions and processes.ā€

Miley has also appreciated the unique opportunities at OHIO Eastern, including working with cadavers in the biology lab.

ā€œItā€™s a unique and meaningful experience,ā€ she said. ā€œIā€™m incredibly grateful and have deep respect for the donor bodies that make this kind of hands-on learning possible.ā€

Whether preparing for medical school, dental hygiene, or exploring different possibilities, the Gardner sisters are making the most of their time at 51ĀŅĀ× Easternā€”staying close to home while building bright futures.