Grace Brethren High School advisers Ms. Hampton and Mrs. Ollenberger have nominated a student who "encourages everyone to reach for higher goals" and who "will speak honestly about the challenges of integrating high academic performance along with extra-curricular involvement in school and community." Rachel's list of volunteer projects contains several that grow out challenges she has faced: ensuring that a disabled brother understands the world and helping friends battle leukemia and cancer. She taught mentally disabled children to ride at the Institute of Equestrian Therapy and has volunteered in the Emergency Room of Simi Valley Hospital. These experiences have led Rachel to decide to become a doctor, although she is still deciding between Oberlin and USC for her undergraduate career. More importantly she has learned that "Everyone is able to make a difference, no matter how small. A person does not have to be famous, wealthy or well respected in order to help others. In fact, sometimes the smallest gestures leave the longest-lasting impact. Often, those who are suffering just need somebody to listen."
