Rachel Handlin’s dream of college is coming true!  Rachel is the first Ruby’s Rainbow Rockin’ Recipient to be pursuing her Bachelors Degree. Rachel was accepted into California Institute of the Arts (along with 7 other Bachelor programs across the U.S., Australia and Europe) and upon graduating will receive her Bachelor of Fine Arts.  This is a truly amazing accomplishment for someone with Down syndrome, but she has worked extremely hard to get here.  In her essay for her scholarship application Rachel said, “I have been in general education for about 15 years. All the homework and tests were a lot of work. After school, I get home and go to school all over again.  I have been working hard so I can go to college with my friends.”

It is a safe bet to say that she is extremely proud of her new college ID card…

RAchel handlin (2)

My hope is to give everyone a realistic picture of what this may look like for someone rockin’ an extra chromosome. Rachel will have a one-on-one aide with her throughout the day and has a “reduced load” schedule for her classes. She has already made friends and is fitting right into the college scene…

Rachel Handlin (3)

A picture says a thousand words…right??  Rachel believes this as well. She also said in her essay that, “When I go to college I am gonna study photography. Sometimes it’s hard for me to use words to say what I mean. My pictures say what I mean.”   You can see some of her photography here: http://heartandsold.org.uk/artists/rachel-handlin/ 

She has a true eye and talent and we can’t wait to see where this experience takes her. We are so proud of Rachel and all of her hard work!  Rachel says, “I want to learn to tell stories with pictures. I am going to graduate from college.”

We believe in you Rachel!  Keep on Rockin’ It!!

Rachel was also chosen for the Maudie’s Scholarship Award, which is awarded to one select  Rockin’ Recipient each year.  Thank you Maudie’s Tex Mex for all the support and helping individuals like Rachel achieve their dreams of higher education!! And Congrats to Rachel!!