Rachel

Activities

• Sport, Tourism, and Recreation (S.T.A.R.) – student organization that expands professional and social
  networks, acts as a liaison between the student body and
  the Department of Recreation, Sport, and Tourism, and offers professional development opportunities for students
• Varsity Women's Cross Country Team
• Varsity Women's Track and Field Team
• Illinois Leadership Academy – student athletes selected to represent their sport and participate in a comprehensive leadership program

One-on-One

Where is your favorite spot on campus to study?
Undergraduate Library

Where is your favorite spot on campus to hang out with your friends?
Green Street

Where is your favorite spot on campus to relax?
Quad

What do you like most about your major?
I like how the curriculum provides an opportunity to learn about all
areas, regardless of your concentration. My professors provide a ton of valuable information because they have worked in the field of recreation, sport, and/or tourism. They share their knowledge and experiences, which makes every class interesting.

What are your favorite courses within your major?
I enjoyed Recreation, Sport, and Tourism 255: Ethical Issues of Sport because it wasn’t your typical lecture atmosphere. Dr. Michael Raycraft was energetic and interested in hearing the opinions of others. Discussion was always encouraged and was the main component that drove the class.

What are your favorite extracurricular activities related to your major?
My favorite activity related to my major would be working as a marketing intern with the athletic department. This job has given me a wonderful opportunity to network with others as well as learn first hand about a possible career in the sports management field.

What are your favorite extracurricular activities not related to your major?
Running

Describe your most memorable experience at Illinois.
It's my 2005 cross country season. That year we placed second in the Big Ten and placed fifth at the NCAA Cross Country Championships. We placed 20th the year before. The 2005 finishes were the highest in Illinois history, which made it a wonderful accomplishment.

Why do you belong at Illinois?
The University of Illinois offers a diverse atmosphere and numerous opportunities to get involved. By participating in student organizations and sports, I have made many lifelong friendships and have learned a lot about myself. My experiences at Illinois have been amazing and I wouldn’t change a thing.