Education Shining Student Rachele Preston juggling student leadership and becoming a teacher

Faculty of Education Shining Student Rachele Preston has taken every chance to get involved with the campus community during her time at the University of Lethbridge. She hopes the leadership she's exhibited as a member of the University of Lethbridge Students' Union (ULSU) Executive Council will translate to the classroom, as she aims to make a difference in the lives of students.

Say yes to every opportunity you are given, and see where it takes you. You are on your own path and your time and experience here at ULethbridge is entirely what you make of it, take the chances and celebrate the changes!

Meet Rachele: Leader. Thoughtful. Exuberant.
Hometown: Duchess, AB
Program: Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Education
Major: General Sciences/Mathematics

"Rachele is a thoughtful member of our campus community," says Dr. Richelle Marynowski, Faculty of Education Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs, and professor. "She fully embraces her role as a student leader, ensuring that students are included in opportunities to provide feedback on programming and institutional decisions. Rachele is energetic about supporting students in learning mathematics through active learning and engagement."

Why did you choose to pursue Education at the University of Lethbridge?

The excellent reputation of the Faculty of Education is what brought me to ULethbridge. Hearing my teachers talk about their experiences during their time in the Faculty is what really sold me. I knew that teachers coming out of the University of Lethbridge were more prepared, and had more in classroom experience compared to other schools, and I wanted to set myself up for the highest level of success in my career.

I knew I wanted to study education since I applied to ULethbridge. The path to settling on my degree majors took more time to decide. I changed my BSc major three times in my first year, after being able to experience classes from different departments.

How have your professors impacted your education?

All of my professors have had such a positive impact on my education. Every professor I have had has inspired me to become a better version of myself, and they continue to inspire me to reach my goals. The time, work and care they have for their students is evident in every aspect of their work, and is demonstrated in their true desire to see their students succeed. The support has allowed me to investigate greater areas of interest and see higher levels of success in my students and practicums.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?

My time in my practicums have been the best parts of my time at ULethbridge. Being able to see myself grow, and seeing the impact I had on students made the biggest difference in my experience at the University so far.

What made you want to get involved with the ULSU and what has been the best part of your work there?

I originally got involved with the ULSU as the Education Student Representative in the 2022/2023 school year. It was my experience in that role, coupled with my passion and ability to advocate for students, that inspired me to run for the Vice President External role this year. This role has had many rewarding parts, and narrowing it down to just one best part as of yet is a bit of a challenge. However, I would say, the most rewarding part of this role has been being able to highlight the student experience in Lethbridge to various stakeholders and being able to engage in work that could see positive improvement to the student experience. 

What piece of advice would you give to future Faculty of Education students?

This will be one of the most rewarding times of your university career. This is your time to learn all about the profession, take full advantage of all of the opportunities that come your way. Your classmates and instructors are here to support you and help you learn!

What are your hopes/plans for the future?

I aspire to return back to a rural school and teach math and science at the junior high and high school level. Eventually would love to come back to ULethbridge to complete a Master of Education.

What excites you most about becoming a teacher?

Making a difference in students' lives.