Peyton Janeway, a junior in the nursing program at Dickinson State University, has always known she wanted to help others. Growing up in Baker, Montana, she was the kind of child who ran to offer help when someone was hurt, and she was often told she had a natural gift for caregiving.
That early instinct led her to a job in a nursing home, where she found a true passion for the field. “I began to look forward to going into work and helping care for the residents,” Janeway said. “That’s when I knew this was my dream job.”
When it came time to choose a college, Janeway looked for a school that could offer strong academic support along with a tight-knit community. She found both at Dickinson State. Known for its personalized learning environment and dedicated faculty, DSU stood out as a place where she could thrive.
“I knew if I wanted to get the education best fit for me, I needed to find a small school that had the support DSU brings,” she said.
Her time at DSU has been marked by meaningful relationships with nursing faculty who go beyond teaching. Janeway describes them as patient, encouraging, and committed to helping students grow not only as nurses but as individuals. Their support has helped her build the confidence and skills she needs to succeed in a demanding field.
Outside of her coursework, Janeway is involved in the Nursing Student Association, where she and her peers work together to support campus and community initiatives. The organization has allowed her to stay connected, give back, and build leadership experience.
Some of her favorite memories at DSU include forming close friendships and building connections that extend beyond the classroom. She says the friends she has made through the nursing program have become an important part of her journey.
As she looks ahead to a future in nursing, Janeway is grateful for the foundation she’s building at DSU. From small-town roots to big dreams in healthcare, she is well on her way to making a difference in the lives of others.