Transfer Student Discovers Fulfilling Experience at UToledo

Transfer Student Discovers Fulfilling Experience at UToledo

Rachel Ackerman is the first in her family to pursue a bachelor's degree.

"I have two nieces who live at home with me, and I wanted to set a good role model for them," she said. "I wanted my nieces to see that women can go to college and excel. Plus: I have always wanted to be a teacher ever since I was little."

From Lambertville, Michigan, Ackerman began her education at Monroe County Community College and earned associate degrees in science and pre-education.

Wanting to further pursue her passion for teaching, Ackerman chose UToledo to help in earning her bachelor's in early childhood education.

She also joined the Rocket Marching Band (RMB).

"One of the reasons I chose UToledo was because the Rocket Marching Band (RMB) stood out to me," Ackerman said. "Also, because they showed great support for their students and organizations in general."

For the last two years, Ackerman has marched alongside RMB and enjoyed the unique experience that came with it.

"The RMB has been nothing short of wonderful," she said. "I have traveled across the country with the band, which has been amazing. The RMB is very supportive of student's lives and understand that classes always come first before extracurricular."

Ackerman had also joined the Office of Multicultural Student Success (OMSS), where Robert Woodley, program manager for retention at OMSS, guided and integrated her into UToledo culture.

"Rachel is an exceptional person with transformative qualities," Woodley said. "She is caring and supportive of everyone, but more importantly in her time here as a student worker in the OMSS, she has broadened her understanding and acceptance of others. Without a doubt I believe she is destined to accomplish great things; she has the determination and grit required to overcome obstacles and a personality to do it with a smile because she is accustomed to getting things done."

Now a senior, Ackerman works at Shoreland Elementary as a student teacher to third graders.

"I enjoy working with students from second to third grade since they are becoming independent but still want and need help from their teacher. This grade level is also still very curious as they are young and learning so much," she said. "Teaching is about learning and building relationships with students, administrators and parents. It's about creating a safe and positive environment in your classroom, so everyone feels included."