Hard Work Can Make Dreams Come True, UB Athlete Tells Sixth-Graders
12/5/2013 12:00:00β―AM | Women's Basketball
Story Courtesy of Lori O. Sosenko
TONAWANDA, NY - Sixth-graders learned about a day in the life of a Division I student-athlete and how hard work in the classroom and on the athletic fields can turn a dream into a reality.
Rachael Gregory, a sophomore at the University at Buffalo and a guard/forward on the women's basketball team, visited Tonawanda Middle School through the UB Reach for the Stars program. The program pairs a university athlete with a local school. During several visits, the athlete presents information to students and works in classrooms with kids.
Her first presentation to all sixth-graders on Nov. 18 was held in the auditorium. Using a slide show, she spoke about a "day in her life" as a student athlete. She spoke about basketball practices and how much time is devoted to practice. She spoke about her academics, her study schedule and how important it is for her to have good grades.
Ms. Gregory also spoke to the students about using social media and advised them to be aware that what's posted online today will exist forever. She told students that coaches, colleges and employers check social media sites to see what information exists about a student or job applicant. She spent 20 minutes answering questions from students, according to Mr. Sellan.
Rachael, who played high school basketball, track and volleyball, was recruited by 11 colleges.
She returned the following week for Mrs. Debbie Hill's second period math class where she played a math-based Jeopardy game and assisted students with math problems.
"Miss Rachel Gregory is a great role model," said Mrs. Hill. "We loved having her come into our classroom. It was a fantastic opportunity. Rachel kept praising the students' hard work. Every student left the room that day with a smile from ear to ear!"
On Dec. 2 she made her final visit to the school and assisted during a physical education class.
As part of the program, the middle school received three UB Women's basketball team posters autographed by the players. All middle school students (grades six through eight) also received a ticket voucher for the Jan. 15 UB game against Toledo.
