Scholars in the Arts
"I am fascinated by the breadth of Art History and by how painting teaches a culture about itself."
Scholars in the News
Reshma Tharani, 21, is part of a new breed of community college student
Rachel M. Brewer
“My education has shaken every corner of my life. I am more empowered as a woman, more informed as a mother, and more analytical as a human being.”
- Program: 2008 Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship Recipient
- Resides: Windsor, ON
- Hometown: Windsor, Ontario, Canada
- Age: 29
- Community College: San Diego City College
- Four-year College or University: Johns Hopkins University
- Academic/Career Pursuits: Education / Academia, Health Care, Nonprofits, Public Services, Social Science / Anthropology, Nursing, Public Health
- Other Interests: Environmental Science, Health Care, International Economic Development, International Relations / NGOs, Literature, Nonprofits, Outdoor / Mountaineering / Camping, Performing Arts / Theatre, Public Policy, Public Services, Social Science / Anthropology, Visual Arts, Volunteer Work
Biography
PROFILE: Rachel Brewer spent two summers as a teenager volunteering in Pakistan and Nepal. “Those riveting experiences influenced my decision to travel around the world after high school. Over four years, I backpacked and lived in South and Southeast Asia, Latin America, and North America.” This “world education” influenced her life both as an activist and an aspiring nurse who plans to pursue her Ph.D. in the realm of public health and social issues.
Raised in Canada and born the middle of five children to a working class family, Rachel was home-schooled by her mother, who fostered a strong work ethic and encouraged her to excel in music. By the time she was 15, Rachel had won several regional competitions as a violinist.
Back in school now after her travels, and with two sons to support, Rachel says she has also become deeply interested in community, human rights, and how public and private institutions—such as health care—affect social change.
INSPIRATION: “In September 2005, I took a class that changed my life. Dr. Steve Bouscaren’s honors cultural anthropology class helped me to integrate my travel experience with real world issues. Through a lens of peace and non-violent conflict resolution, I began to re-examine my career path, which has changed to a focus on public health, nursing, and development.”
ASPIRATION: Rachel plans to earn a master’s degree and Ph.D. in science.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Founder and President of the Amnesty International student chapter at San Diego City College, Rachel has quadrupled membership since the first meeting and brought global issues to campus. She also serves as President of the Inter-Club Council, and belongs to an environmental club.
ACCOLADES: Recipient of the Chancellor’s Award, Rachel has also received the San Diego Gas & Electric Award, the Honors Program Book Award, and the Associated Students Leadership Award for her work with the Inter-Club Council.
INTERESTING FACT: In addition to violin, Rachel plays bass guitar and sings.
Other Scholars Like Rachel
Daniel
Young Scholar
Calvert Hall College High School
Nasha Taylor
Undergraduate Transfer Scholar
Temple University
Daniel Gil-Marca
Graduate Scholar
M.A. Eastman / D.M.A Peabody
Sarah Vazquez
Undergraduate Transfer Scholar
Mount Holyoke College