Stephanie Rhodes came to RMU thinking about a career in medicine. Then she spent two weeks teaching in innercity Philadelphia as part of the Philadelphia Urban Seminar—and discovered her true calling.

"My whole family thought I would go to medical school one day, and I thought so too," Stephanie says. "At first, I was a little reluctant to tell people that I had found my calling in elementary education. Then I realized there is no greater challenge—or contribution—than being a great teacher."

The Philadelphia Urban Seminar, which attracts applicants from across Pennsylvania, seeks to bridge the cultural and experience gaps between urban public school students and aspiring teachers.

"I believe that every child has the inherent potential to do great things," Stephanie says. "I knew that this experience would make me a more effective teacher."

"Here at RMU I’ve learned to appreciate other people’s differences and to help people resolve conflicts,” she adds. "So I think I’m ready to get out there and start to make a difference for someone else."