Rachel Hillhouse

Contact Information

    I graduated from UNCA in 2016 with my BS in Health and Wellness Promotion. Coming in as a junior transfer student, I was a bit nervous to dive into my major. Being a single mom and obtaining my associates degree online, I had to quickly adjust to a day time class schedule. The HWP department at UNCA has helped prepare me for so many situations in life, both personally and professionally. The case-study approach and critical thinking focus for the curriculum gave me the training and skills needed to be competitive in the workforce. Not only did I learn problem solving, but the teamwork atmosphere and service learning projects have helped me to cultivate a perspective of inclusion and community. Working in public health and education, my perspective shifts constantly in order to see the bigger picture for all involved. UNCA and HWP helped me to cultivate this in diverse ways.

    Currently I am a Housing Case Manager for Volunteers of America in Upstate New York. Our program helps to provide subsidies and case management support for persons in the Greater Rochester community. I use my education from UNCA daily while I explore social determinants of health with my participants and help them navigate their choices.