Rachel’s Path to St. Joe’s
As a Brooklyn resident, born and raised, political science major Rachel Meltsin ’26 knew two things about her future when graduating high school. The first; she wanted to go to college somewhere close by. The second; she wanted to continue playing volleyball. Fortunately, St. Joseph’s University, New York’s Brooklyn Campus was just within reach.
“The first time I came to campus was Accepted Students Day, and I knew almost instantly that it was a perfect fit,” Meltsin said. “The campus became like a second home to me and I was able to explore the beautiful and eccentric neighborhood even deeper than I ever had before.”
Like many first year students, Meltsin was initially unsure of what career path she wanted to pursue — with the University’s wide array of courses ultimately inspiring her to major in political science. Thanks to the foundation laid by St. Joseph’s University, Meltsin vision for the future is now clear, with her sights on attending law school.
Core Memories
According to Meltsin, her time at SJNY has greatly prepared for her for awaits in the next chapter. From holding two positions in student government to being named as captain of the Bears Women’s Volleyball team, St. Joseph’s has taught her what it means to take initiative, communicate effectively and hold herself accountable.
“These experiences led me to feel comfortable to speak publicly and work with faculty and students to better serve our campus community. St. Joe’s taught me not only how to succeed in a classroom, but also how to step up when challenges arise, communicate with my peers, and lead with integrity both on the court and in the classroom,” she shared.
As far as her favorite experiences go, Meltsin reflects on her time as SGA President, playing with her teammates and being a part of the University’s Honors Program. One memory in particular is her trip to Salem, Massachusetts, where she and other students from the Honors Program learned about the Salem Witch Trials.
“A group of students including myself had an honor seminar where we learned about the Salem Witch trials and read material such as the Crucible. Yet, to even deepen our understanding and knowledge of this time period we took a weekend trip to Massachusetts and explored the historic churches, buildings and streets. Seeing Salem in-person brought the material to life and illustrated an important period in history,” Meltsin said.
Looking Back on St. Joseph’s Mentorship
Experiences aside, it’s the people that made St. Joseph’s feel like a second home. One of note was her academic adviser and political science professor David Siegal, Ph.D. who she credits with constantly guiding her and offering support when needed.
“He had a unique ability to make vague and theoretical classes very interesting and immersive, allowing me to think more critically and ask deeper questions on the subject,” she shared.
Meltsin also highlighted Professor Riley patience whose patience was essential in helping her build confidence when approaching difficult math courses.
“If I knew math could have been taught the way Professor Riley does it, I would have approached the subject with far more confidence.”
Lastly, there was Tracy Thomas from the Office of Student Life who was always there to offer advice and support as Meltsin’s student government adviser.
“I am immensely thankful for all of her help and support she has given me throughout my time at St. Joe’s and will definitely reminisce on it for years to come,” Meltsin continued.
Rachel’s Inspiration
And she looks forward to her next stage in life, Meltsin is happy that her two biggest inspirations will be right beside her — her parents.
“My parents are both my biggest inspirations and consistently motivate me to be better and remain focused on my academics. My parents, along with my grandparents immigrated from soviet-run Russia decades ago in search of a better life for themselves and their children,” she said.
Meltsin continued, “My dad collected bottles for extra money to help support his family and my mom worked extremely hard in dental school so she could support her parents as they got older. Their experiences in immigrating to America at an early age taught me to value perseverance, discipline and gratitude in everything I do.”
After graduation, Meltsin hopes to travel a bit before attending law school, and if her four years at St. Joseph’s have proven anything, it’s that world belongs to those who approach it without hesitation.
Advice to Students
“Slow Down. I believe many students, including myself, are constantly looking towards the next big event in their lives, whether it be an important test, the next achievement or even graduation. Many forget to stop and appreciate the smaller moments that lead up to it. While it is great to be ambitious and have goals in your life, if you are constantly pushing yourself, you will sprint past your own life without even realizing it.
“I believe the goal is to experience those moments no matter how small they may seem and not just strive for the next big thing in your life. To quote a widely-known famous philosopher, Master Oogway from the Kung Fu Panda franchise, ‘yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the present’.”
