“Coming from college, I was accustomed to being constantly on the move – juggling school, work, friendships, club involvement, internship, etc. But PULSE has inspired me to learn how to be still – keyword “inspired.” ” – Rachel Bowman
Rachel Bowman, a native of Archbold, Ohio, completed her undergraduate degree at Eastern Mennonite University with a major in Psychology. During her time in school, she was involved with the University Accord office, developing programming related to Restorative Justice education and facilitating Restorative Justice processes with students. She was also Co-President of the Peace Fellowship Club at Eastern Mennonite University and presented research at the Intercollegiate Peace Fellowship Conference in 2013. In her free time, Rachel enjoys trying new restaurants, traveling, and dancing. She is serving at Three Rivers Workforce Investment Board.
Nathan McKnight: How has PULSE inspired you to live/think/act differently?
Rachel Bowman: The first thing that comes to mind is that PULSE has really inspired me to slow down. During orientation there was a definite emphasis on being engaged in our community but that was balanced with the encouragement to simply slow down and be present in this experience. Coming from college, I was accustomed to being constantly on the move – juggling school, work, friendships, club involvement, internship, etc. But PULSE has inspired me to learn how to be still – keyword “inspired.” I’m not there yet but I’m learning!
Nathan: What has been the most valuable part of the PULSE experience so far?
Rachel: One of the most valuable aspects of the PULSE experience has been the work I am involved with at my nonprofit partner, Three Rivers Workforce Investment Board. I’ve been involved in such a wide range of activities related to workforce development, grant management, and research all of which are great opportunities to better understand the world of public policy!
Nathan: Tell me something you are learning about yourself through PULSE.
Rachel: Being in PULSE has reminded that I am energize by novelty. I’ve enjoyed being in a new city and getting to know this community. I’m surprised how quickly this place started to feel familiar!
Nathan: What do you enjoy most about your nonprofit partnership?
Rachel: Beyond having stellar coworkers, I’ve loved the opportunity to learn about our initiatives related to reentry. Specifically, I was able to help staff an Expungement Day event that convened lawyers volunteering their time and nearly 400 folks looking to expunge their criminal records. It was an amazing day filled with hope that people could finally put their record behind them.
Nathan: What have you enjoyed most about living in community?
Rachel: The laughter! I love the nights when my housemates and I end up just standing in our little kitchen talking, debating, and laughing.
Story by PULSE Participant Nathan McKnight.
Read more Participant Stories from Fellows about their experience in PULSE. If you would like to learn more about the PULSE program, please visit our Serve with Us page.
Also, check out other Stories of Transformation: