#13 Rachael Sorensen
University of Texas, Austin
What high school activity, class, or teacher most impacted who you are today?
Participating in the Lady Bulldogs Track and Field program has been transformative for me because of the grit I gained and the friends I made.
What is your most cherished memory in high school?
My most cherished high school memory was getting ready to run the 4×4 with my teammates at 11 p.m. in the cold. We tried to hype each other up, but we were all so tired that we didn’t make any sense.
Share a time when you overcame a challenge and the lessons learned from it.
At the beginning of freshman year, finding my classes was a big challenge for me. I overcame my fear of being a map kid by becoming a map kid and often retracing my steps. I learned that it’s okay to ask for directions.
What advice would you give to under classmen about making the most out of their high school experience?
Frozen chocolate chips are a killer homework munchie.
Who or what gives you inspiration?
When I doubt my abilities, I think of my 87-year-old grandpa with dementia who decided to go skydiving over spring break. He inspires me to invest in both the long-term and short-term joys of life.
What accomplishment are you most proud of and why?
Although not a single event, I think what has been most worthwhile was consistently engaging in activities or goals that I’m bad at…like very bad. In these situations, it’s easy to assume that something “isn’t for me” or “wasn’t a fit.” However, I remind myself that I’m not here to prove intelligence, but to develop it. Then, anything after square one feels like an accomplishment.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I enjoy playing my harp with the Abilene Youth Orchestra.
Is there anyone you would like to thank for helping you reach this achievement?
I would like to thank my wonderful parents for supporting me in my academic and personal goals. They always listen and help me balance my priorities.