UNC student, Rachael Carrillo ’20 (Sociology), says guidance from university staff and support from the Reisher Family and Stryker Institute for Leadership Development scholarships is the only reason she’s a Bear today.

“It amazes me how so many donors see the potential in college students and give their money to those who struggle."

“If I did not receive these scholarships, I would not be able to afford college,” Rachael said. “It amazes me how so many donors see the potential in college students and give their money to those who struggle. They do not care what race or class you are from; they care for your education and well-being. That is what makes me so grateful to be who I am and proud to be a Bear.”

While growing up, Rachael remembers how her mother struggled to raise her and her three siblings through hard financial times and a period of homelessness. She says receiving the Reisher Family and Stryker Institute for Leadership Development scholarships has relieved a tremendous amount of financial pressure from her family and will allow her to study stress free and be more involved in academic activities.

Rachael is also thankful for Eryka Charley, director of UNC’s Native American Student Services (NASS), who encouraged her to apply for the scholarships.

"I only got to where I am today thanks to the amazing people who have helped me in my journey. My goal in life is to be able to give back in any way I possibly can.”

“She [Charley] saw the potential in me when no one else did,” Rachael said. “I chose to major in Sociology for one reason: to help people. I only got to where I am today thanks to the amazing people who have helped me in my journey. My goal in life is to be able to give back in any way I possibly can.”

Rachael is a staff member and student leader for Native American Student Services (NASS), which offers advising, career services and leadership development tailored to promote the cultural, academic and career goals of the Native American student population at UNC.

"Within my career, there have been very few who can achieve what Rachael effortlessly is able to do, which is build community.” - NASS Director Eryka Charley

“Rachael’s personality and character have become incredible assets for the NASS staff and UNC,” said NASS Director Eryka Charley. “Her ability to engage her colleagues with care and compassion has been instrumental. Within my career, there have been very few who can achieve what Rachael effortlessly is able to do, which is build community.”