Click here to read more Cougar Corner profiles RACHEL EDDINS A LIFE OF COMMITMENT Once a college student earns his or her degree, it’s natural for them to focus on a career and to create a new life that may take them away from a university environment. However, there are others who see the possibilities and the value of what is already around them. Some alumni return after graduating and decide to give back. Rachel Eddins (2002) has done just that. She is a graduate from the University of Houston’s College of Education and has a master’s degree in counseling. She currently works for University Career Services as a career counselor. “I love the UH campus,” Eddins said. “I am a firm believer that we must give back to your university.”She is passionate about the UH community and dedicates herself through advocacy in programs that foster student success after college, such as the university Career Advisory Network and the CampusCougars. “The main thing is to stay involved and committed well beyond graduation. It’s one of the things that I am very proud of.” CampusCougars is a constituent alumni group comprised of more than 900 UH graduates, faculty and staff who work on campus. As President of CampusCougars, Eddins is a community advocate who utilizes her leadership roles to get the Cougars involved. The organization has participated in one of the largest public service programs on campus called Operation School Supplies. Each year, OSS collects school supplies for thousands of deserving Houston-area school children. Other activities have included a guided tour of the Blaffer Gallery, a night out in the Houston Alumni Organization’s suite at a Cougar Basketball game, and an informative session on "Healthy Eating for Busy Professionals" sponsored by Campus Recreation & Wellness. This past December, CampusCougars also collected donations of household items, which were delivered to Del Rio, Texas and Ciudad Acuna,Mexico through projects called “Gifts for the Needy” and “Christmas in the Colonias.” “CampusCougars is a diverse group with the mission of strengthening alumni ties across campus,” Eddins said. “I enjoy the people. We share a commitment to the university. It is important for us to continue to build our sense of community across campus.” As Coordinator for Alumni Career Services, Eddins offers career planning and development services to UH alumni. She offers personalized career assistance for all alumni experiencing career transition including vocational testing, strategizing a job search, resume critiquing, and interview preparation.“UCS offers comprehensive services to all alumni seeking assistance at any stage in their career.” Eddins said. During her free time, she participates in outdoor athletic activities. She loves to jog and has participated in the past two MS-150 cycling tours to Austin. Editor’s note: If you want to become a member of CampusCougars, please visit www.myCougarConnection.com/campuscougars. For information on career services for alumni please call 713.743.5100, e-mail reddins@uh.edu, or visit www.career.uh.edu.( more )