Rachel Sthilaire

My name is Rachel Sthilaire, and I'm a junior Accounting major at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I've lived in Massachusetts for most of my life, and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.

Before coming to UMass, I was conflicted with what I wanted to do for a career. I initially chose Accounting because I was interested in the subject and found it to be a stable career for my future. As I went further into the major, I realized the true impact I could create being in this major. One of my main goals is to work for a non-profit organization after I graduate, in order to give back to the community. This past summer, I interned for Melmark New England, which is a school for autistic children in Andover, Massachuetts, as an Accounting Intern. I ended that summer truly feeling like I did something good and my actions actually had an impact.

During the academic year, I am a part of a professional business fraternity called Delta Sigma Pi. Our main focus is generating a connection between us and the business world. We host various professional events, which allow us to meet with business professionals, who share their experiences and advice with us. Along with these events, we host fundraising and social events to connect as a group. Being a part of this organization has allowed me to further immerse myself in Isenberg and get involved while at UMass.

The scenery in Western Mass has allowed me to take up hiking as a hobby when I'm not buried in schoolwork. Coming from a more urban area, Amherst is a much different place to be living. But, this difference allowed me to take up new hobbies. While I may not be staying in Amherst after I graduate, I'm certainly prepared to enjoy the scenery and culture while I'm here.