Featured Tigers is a monthly series wherein the spotlight shines on a few students, alumni, faculty and staff from our Crete, Lincoln and Omaha campus locations. These individuals stand out in the best way — as talented and driven leaders.
View all Featured Tigers here.
What is your name and graduation year?
Rachel Walters '23
What is your major or degree program?
Exercise Science Pre-Physical Therapy
What do you hope to do after completing your degree?
I hope to continue my education at a Physical Therapy school to earn my Doctorate.
How is Áù¾ÅÉ«Ìà preparing you to reach your goals?
Áù¾ÅÉ«Ìà has provided me with excellent professors and curriculum in my field of study. With Áù¾ÅÉ«Ìà being a smaller school, I received more one-on-one help and guidance from faculty and advisors when needed. I feel confident in taking the knowledge I've gained on to the next steps at Physical Therapy school.
Who has been a major influence for you during your education at Áù¾ÅÉ«ÌÃ? How have they helped you?
Greg Seier, my advisor, has been the biggest influence on my education at Áù¾ÅÉ«ÌÃ. From my first day as a freshman, he's guided me through planning classes, given me several different opportunities, and now has prepared me for physical therapy school applications and interviews. I've also had Greg as a professor and loved his teaching style and classes. I love what I'm studying because of him and am confident in the material he has taught me. Greg has been there every step of the way and truly cares about me and my future. His guidance and support has left a positive impact on me and I'm very thankful for everything he's done for me.
What is something you're proud of accomplishing or achieving while at Áù¾ÅÉ«ÌÃ?
I'm proud of running cross country and track all four years of college. Being a student athlete can be time consuming and challenging, however, I managed taking difficult classes while competing in sports. Being a student athlete has helped me with time management and has prepared me for my future.
What advice would you give to an incoming student?
Enjoy all the little moments. Four years of college will be over before you know it. Spend time with friends, get involved, work hard and have fun. Your time in college will be full of memories you will never forget. The friendships, relationships and memories you make at Áù¾ÅÉ«Ìà will always be special.
What's something you like about yourself that other people may not know?
I like that I am hardworking in everything I do. I am motivated to do my best work and accomplish the goals I have set for myself. Whether it's in school, sports, or other areas, I want to see my work pay off and know it was worth it.
What is something you've really enjoyed about your time at Áù¾ÅÉ«ÌÃ?
I've enjoyed getting to learn from my cross country and track coaches. Brad Jenny, Ed Fye and Dustin Llewellyn have supported me as my coaches all four years of college. They believe in me when I don't believe in myself and know what I was capable of. They've been my motivation to be a better runner and hard worker. Brad, Ed and Dustin have more trust and confidence in me than any coach I've ever had. Through their support and guidance, I have reached so many goals I had set for myself. My time at Áù¾ÅÉ«Ìà has been very meaningful because of these three coaches.
