Spring Graduation Spotlight: Rachael Muchero

In August 2019, Rachael Muchero from Harare, Zimbabwe, decided to study at Hardin-Simmons University. She visited HSU for a campus tour in April 2019. “The hospitality we received that day was amazing,” she shared. Muchero will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in biochemistry on May 12, 2023.  

During her time at HSU, Rachael was very involved on campus. She was a member of the BSM as a sophomore and a member of the pre-health club throughout her four years at HSU. She is the outgoing President of the Holland School of Science and Mathematics (HSSM) Research Society. She works on campus for Aramark and as an ACE tutor for chemistry and physics.

Rachael received the Ergon Career Development Award.

Muchero received ten merit-based scholarships, including the Trustee Scholarship, Shanduko Scholars Living Award, Haggerton Endowed Scholarship, and Campbell Scholarship. This year, she was also awarded the Ergon Career Development Award from Student Life.  

Rachael loves how intimate the community at HSU is. “The small community at HSU has allowed me to connect with faculty and staff on a deeper level which has expanded my network,” she shared. 

Whenever she is less busy, Rachael enjoys listening to music, dancing, cooking, trying out new dishes, and watching movies and TV shows. “Although traveling is not my regular hobby, I love traveling!” she said. 

Muchero is grateful to God for bringing her this far. She also expressed her gratitude to some faculty and staff members, including Dr. Candace Wicks, her academic advisor Dr. Michelle Dose, Professor of Physics, Dr. Kenny Stephens, Director of Career Services, Myles Lofland, and Munatsi Manyande, who oversees the Shanduko Scholar’s Program. “These people are the reason I am walking that stage on May 12,” she explained. 

Rachael’s favorite quote, which her mom always said, is “Focus on what is important.” Whenever she found herself in a situation where she had to make tough decisions, she remembered these words. She said, “I would not be where I am today if I did not constantly remind myself to give attention to what matters most.” 

Her advice to students at HSU is “get out of your comfort zone and explore. Doing this makes you more open-minded to learn and explore different activities.” She also advised students to believe in themselves in whatever classes they take. “This will drive you to succeed at all costs,” she explained.