Rachel Walecki
Rachel Walecki
Class Year
’21
Major(s)
PE Sport & Fitness
Current Position
Physical education teacher at Kenosha Unified School District
Rachel Walecki graduated from Carthage in 2021, majoring in P.E. sport and fitness and minoring in secondary education and health. She works at an elementary school with Kenosha Unified School District as a P.E. teacher, where she teaches physical education to children between kindergarten and fifth grade.
Ms. Walecki tributes her success as a teacher to her liberal arts education at Carthage.
What have you enjoyed most about your career?
“Building relationships with students is what I enjoy most about my career. There is no better opportunity to impact the lives of children and that is what I strive to do every day.”
How did Carthage prepare you?
“The interactive classes and real-world experiences really helped prepare me for my career in education. There were so many opportunities for me to go and explore jobs within the education field. Throughout my time at Carthage, the EXSS and Education Departments prepared me for different aspects of my career as well, such as being able to talk to individuals within different school districts, participate in mock interviews, observing different schools and classrooms, and student teaching.”
Why did you choose Carthage?
“Carthage felt like home as soon as I stepped onto campus for a tour my junior year of high school. Carthage was on my radar as soon as I began looking into colleges, since both my uncle and brother attended. Carthage felt like the perfect choice for my future — and it was.”
What opportunities were made possible because of your Carthage experience?
“My professors opened many doors for me throughout my time at Carthage. They gave me the opportunity to connect with people that would play a large role in my future. They also provided me with the skills I needed to be successful.”
What Carthage professors played a part in your success and how?
“Each of my professors played some role in my success. Carthage faculty truly care about the future of their students. My professors within the EXSS Department, especially Profs. Rebekah Johnson and Shelly Johnston, truly paved the way for my future as a teacher. Without their help and connections, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
What role have the values in Carthage's mission, "Seeking Truth, Building Strength, Inspiring Service — Together" played in your life?
“Truth, strength, and service are values that are the root of all decisions I make in my life. Each of these values is equally as important and must be incorporated in each of the pathways I choose to go. Carthage’s mission really puts an emphasis on ‘Together.’ This aspect of community and togetherness holds a lot of significance in my life. As a teacher, I continuously think about community and what it means to my students now and to their future. We must work together to provide support, hold each other accountable, and accept responsibility throughout society.”
What's your favorite Carthage memory?
“Homecoming is by far the best memory I have of Carthage. It would always remind me of how our school is one big family and everyone comes together from past, present, and future to celebrate. Carthage will forever hold a special place in my heart. It was the best four years of my life, filled with endless opportunities, eye-opening experiences, and connections I will hold close to my heart forever.”
Tips for current Carthage students?
“Self-discipline is key to success. You are going to have a long, hard road ahead of you. It is important to stay focused and put yourself first. It will all be worth it in the end!
“I would also say one of the most important pieces of advice shared with me at the beginning of my Carthage journey was to make connections; reach out, ask questions, and connect with people. Step out of your comfort zone and make yourself known. Making connections will open a world of opportunities for you!”