Commencement is coming up on Saturday, Dec. 14, and we’re highlighting some of the incredible students who will soon be alumni of the College of Health Sciences.

Read on to learn more about Rae Stecker of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, who is completing a Bachelor of Social Work.

Favorite Quote:

“This is the true joy in life, being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one. Being a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances, complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy. I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it what I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.”

–George Bernard Shaw

What does graduating from the Mizzou College of Health Sciences mean to you?

Graduating from the Mizzou College of Health Sciences means that I have completed one major goal, on my way to completing more of them. I have always had a passion for social justice and equity, and a greater passion for helping people connect with resources they need and achieve personal growth. The School of Social Work has granted me opportunities I never would have imagined, and given me skills that I will be using every day for the rest of my life.

What was one of your favorite classes within your degree track?

One of my favorite classes was SW4711, Social Justice and Social Policy 2 with Dr. Dale Fitch. I am receiving dual degrees, one in political science and one in social work. This class was an intersection of these two degrees, and I took it alongside a legislative internship in the Missouri State House. This gave me the opportunity to see the processes I was studying in live action.

What activities have you been involved in along the way?

I have always held at least one paid job throughout college. For two years I held two jobs, one on campus and one off campus. This was necessary for me to live and make it through college. When I have time, I attend Counsel of Student Social Worker meetings. I was appointed to the Board of Directors of the National Association of Social Workers Missouri Chapter in July 2024 as the BSW representative, where I have contributed to the profession on a macro scale and organized fellow social workers.

Who helped you during your college journey?

My parents are my biggest supporters. From 215 miles away, they have been my rocks, my lights and my best friends. They have taken on loads of debt for me, and done everything they can to ensure I am successful. Because of their courage, strength, resilience and love, I have grown to be someone I am very proud of.

I have created a community in Columbia, Missouri, that I have not found anywhere else. Jessica and Kyle Schlosser have acted as a second family to me, even giving me a place to live between apartment leases. I have cultivated a friend group that is strong and supportive, which gave me sanctuary during hard situations.

Finally, the School of Social Work faculty members have been extraordinary in helping me and my colleagues grow into professional and respectful people. They are understanding, they are empathetic, they challenge us and they celebrate our wins with us.

What memories stand out from your time at Mizzou?

My parents and I attended the 2023 Homecoming football game, which was my first and only attended game. The energy was fantastic and contagious.

My favorite days at Mizzou were when the Francis Quad was covered with shade from beautiful huge trees, my friends and I would picnic and complete homework on blankets while the spring sun moved across the sky.

What are your plans after graduation?

I have been accepted to the Mizzou Grad School and the Master of Social Work program. I intend to complete that program and obtain my MSW, study for and pass the LCSW exam and eventually work with at-risk youth — hopefully in schools. I plan to always be involved in the legislative process through NASW and the connections I have made, ensuring I am fighting to implement socially equitable policies and support underrepresented communities.

What advice do you have for current and future students?

Dream big and believe in yourself. You are capable, smart and unique. Your experiences and point of view are special. You can watch that episode of your show after you do your homework, it won’t take as long as you think, and then you are less stressed.

If you get a dog or cat, make sure you have time to actually take care of the animal — ESPECIALLY a dog. There are so many college students who invest in a dog as a pet but then leave the animal most of the day without proper care and training. Your cat is a living being and deserves love and attention. Please be mindful that you are taking on extremely important responsibilities when you get an animal, and being a college student with an animal is HARD.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Find hobbies you like. Go on walks. Work toward self-actualization. This is the time to be you and figure out what that means. Don’t leave behind your community, and don’t only look out for yourself. We are all here and living together, we all deserve stability and happiness.