Biography

Rachel Steele is an Administrative Assistant in the Office for the Advancement of Teaching & Learning at the University of Rhode Island who is passionate about supporting students as they navigate higher education. Rachel began her educational journey at the Community College of Rhode Island before transferring to complete her bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies. After spending several years working for a telecommunications startup, she transitioned into higher education at URI, where she continues to support student learning and development. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Adult Education with the goal of advocating for and empowering adult learners. Rachel understands that college can feel overwhelming, especially for first-generation students, and wants students to know that many working professionals, including those in higher education, have shared similar experiences. She believes that students’ backgrounds, perspectives, and values are important and belong in higher education spaces. Her advice to first-generation students is to find someone they trust to ask questions and to give themselves permission to not have all the answers. As a mentor, Rachel is especially interested in supporting students with navigating college systems, academic and study strategies, time management and organization, imposter syndrome and confidence building, mental health and well-being, career exploration, and graduate school planning.