Pursuing Boundless Opportunities
A Conversation with Rachael Ruth, ’25
- French and leadership studies double major; business administration minor from Steamboat Springs, Colorado
- Recipient of the Brockenbrough Family Scholarship
What has been your most meaningful extracurricular activity so far? Participating in the University of Cambridge summer study abroad program. Courses like International Law and U.K Comparative Public Law offered a comprehensive introduction to legal education, providing not only knowledge but also a broader understanding of European perspectives. The program’s unique blend of undergraduate and graduate students created an ideal environment for expanding my professional network. Interacting with fellow law students and esteemed Cambridge professors enriched my international knowledge and professional skills significantly. Overall, this experience not only deepened my understanding of law but also enabled me to forge lasting connections.
What has been your favorite class? My favorite class was Sex, Leadership, and the Evolution of Human Societies. I was captivated by this course because it delved into the profound impact of biological and cultural evolution on the development of human societies. By exploring various theories and drawing from case studies in primatology, cultural anthropology, psychology, and other fields, I had the opportunity to investigate the reasons behind the diversity in leadership and political organization across both human and non-human societies.
What are your goals for the remainder of your time on campus? In addition to achieving my academic goals, I plan to maintain my active participation in various extracurricular activities both on and off campus. This includes my involvement in the Kappa Delta sorority, Alpha Kappa Psi business fraternity, the improv club, and my engagement in community service through Youth Life Foundation of Richmond. These extracurricular pursuits not only enrich my college experience but also help me develop leadership, teamwork, and community engagement skills.
What has been most notable about your time here? What I value most are the sense of community and the opportunities for personal and academic growth. I’m grateful for the dedicated professors who have mentored me and the lifelong friendships I’ve formed. The tight-knit Spider community has provided me with a supportive network that will extend well beyond graduation. I’m proud to be a Spider because this university encourages us to be curious, ambitious, and socially responsible. Your support has made it possible for me to be a part of this exceptional community, and for that, I’m deeply thankful.