Student Profile

Rachel Rockey

Class of 2017
Majors: Mathematics  and Secondary Education
Hometown: Wildwood, Florida

Rachel Rockey has a clear vision of what she wants to do with her life: to teach mathematics to high school students and to be a motivational leader for them.

“I want to become the teacher that is a light to her students and inspires them to learn — not only teaching mathematics, but inspiring them to live and love life,” Rockey said. “I believe that I am being called to do this through teaching math.”

Rachel is preparing for this future through a double major in mathematics and secondary education at Valpo. However, she was originally considering attending another university closer to her hometown. Fortunately, Robert Clark, MSEED program director and assistant professor of chemistry, called to tell her about the MSEED (Mathematics and Science Education Enrollment and Development) program at Valpo and its focus on the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). After a lengthy conversation, Rachel’s perspective changed.

“I was hooked on MSEED — what it stands for, what it could do for me, how it will help bridge the gap between STEM and education — most of all how it would allow me to help high school students in math and science,” Rachel said.

Throughout high school, Rachel’s math and science classes were her most enjoyable. She has always had an interest in teaching and feels that since the number of great math teachers is diminishing, she can help change that. Rachel has already begun making a difference as a teacher through her internship with Gloria Dei Tutoring, working with children in preschool through 12th grade.

After graduation, Rachel wants to teach in a classroom as soon as possible. Through the MSEED program, she will complete her student teaching during her senior year and earn her teaching license. She is considering teaching math to students in underprivileged public schools.

“I hope that I can inspire students to not only enjoy math, but also to realize that it is something they can do and love to do,” Rachel said. “I hope to inspire them to live their lives to the fullest and let them see Christ in me.”

Rachel is also a Christ College honors student and a Lutheran Leader. She is highly engaged in campus life as a member of the praise band for Celebrate!, assistant editor of photography and design for the Beacon, photographer for the Torch, an overnight host for admission, and a member of Campus Crusade for Christ.

“Valpo is helping me primarily through MSEED, Lutheran Leader, and Christ College,” Rachel said. “All three of these have put me in a community of support and fellowship that allows me to grow and learn as well as strengthen my faith.”

Students like Rachel continue to participate in many activities and programs and to succeed in a wide variety of ways.