Sarah Chelli Rajkimar is a 2023 University of Northern Iowa graduate in elementary education who earned her degree with support of the Teach Waterloo Program, a partnership of UNI and the Waterloo Community School District. The program, which benefits from funding from the R.J. McElroy Trust, the Waterloo Schools Foundation and John Deere Waterloo Operations, provides paraeducators and similar supporting specialists in the district with the opportunity to earn their bachelor's degrees in elementary education while continuing to work. The goal is to increase the number of minority elementary education teachers to support student success. 

Why did you choose this degree -- and to pursue this degree at UNI?
I have three children and I thought this would be the best fit as a mom.

What kind of path did you take to achieve your degree?
I got substitute authorization certification and worked as a sub in the schools. I enjoyed it and wanted to pursue teaching more.

How did your field experience prepare you for this next step in your career? 
I worked as a substitute teacher and enjoyed working with children. Then I also worked as a student teacher and in the different teaching levels that the university offered.

What does completing your degree mean to you?
It feels great to accomplish another bachelor's degree. The first time around I struggled with earning a BA. This has taught me that learning never ends.

What challenges did you face as you worked toward this degree – and how did you overcome them?
Challenges were tough, but could be overcome. My children and work had to put up with my schedule,  but their confidence and encouragement to finish what I started helped me.

How did UNI help you achieve your goals?
I did not want to rush, but took my time so I wouldn't be overwhelmed with studying, work and children. I also appreciated the advisors at UNI when I sometimes called and almost dropped classes because it was tough. They always encouraged me that I can do it and reminded me to just take one day at a time.

We often say UNI is student focused; a place where professors care--and teach; a place where learning happens in and out of the classroom;  and is perfectly sized. Do any of these statements ring true for you?
All of the above. Professors do take the time to get to know us and listen to us. When we struggle they find ways to help us.

What’s your best memory of your time at UNI?
Math was a difficult subject for me growing up. When the professors at UNI taught math, it all made sense to me and I now enjoy math. They made it look like math is for everyone.

What advice would you give to students considering UNI?
It is a great place to get a teaching degree. Teachers are invested in you and your classmates love to work with you.

What do you plan to do with your degree?
I plan to continue working at the Waterloo Community School District.