Student of the Week: Pine Bluffs High School

“Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them” said Shakespeare. Rachel Purdy has no fear of doing great things. It happens to be one of her favorite quotes.

Rachel is the president of FBLA, Future Business Leaders of America, as well as FCCLA, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. Rachel was previously involved with FFA, and drew much of her desire to work in the agricultural field from that foundation and her fathers farm.

She carries a 3.75, or in her words, “whatever all A’s and one B is.” She is the top of her class and it is not from lack of drive and spunk. Rachel is taking college prep classes in Cheyenne at LCCC.

She is the alternate for the University of Wyoming girls state. She also received the top tier of the Hathaway.

Besides being a “go-getter”, Rachel also is focused on what she is “getting.” “I emailed Governor Fredenthal when I was nine about Hurricane Katrina,” Rachel said.

Rachel has broadened her political aspirations from hurricane relief to business and career paths.

She interned at the Pine Bluffs Post two summers ago, and really enjoyed it. Rachel plans to attend the University of Wyoming in Laramie to pursue a degree in International Agriculture and receive her law degree.

“I would like to work in trade,” Rachel said. “I feel there is a need in international agriculture law issues. Agriculture has something for everyone, we will always need agriculture because we will always need to eat. Agriculture is full of opportunities.”

FBLA advisor, Mary Jacobsen, said Rachel is a “very determined, driven young lady.” “She is going to go wherever she wants, and I hope she doesn’t forget the little people when she gets there.”

Nothing is going to stop Rachel from embracing greatness.