CHHS Student Spotlight Q+A: Rachel Bournias
Throughout the 2026-2027 academic year, the College of Health and Human Services (CHHS) will spotlight students to highlight the diverse academic paths and profile student motivations and interests. Through this series, CHHS aims to showcase the passion and dedication that inspire students to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities. The college’s next spotlight series is on Rachel Bournias, a member of the Class of 2027.
What is your hometown?
Albuquerque, NM.
What are you studying?
Doctorate of Physical Therapy.
Why did you choose your major/program?
I started skating when I was 3 and have been competing since then through my time as a DPT student. I was pretty competitive growing up and then I went to college where I competed for ASU just for fun. It wasn’t till last year that I qualified for solo ice dance nationals and this year I competed again and won the international shadow dance category with my partner Quincy. Training has been a little hard with school like we go at 6am a few times a week so I can fit it in before classes along with other days of strength training.
For physical therapy, I tore my meniscus while skating when I was 17 and went to physical therapy but my PT made it really fun and I enjoyed going so I was inspired to do that for others. I always found anatomy fascinating and wanted to go into the medical field but once I had that experience I knew it was for me. I started shadowing different specialties and then applied to PT school and got in.
What do you hope to do with your degree after graduation?
I hope to work in pelvic health and/or orthopedic outpatient setting.
What is one goal you hope to accomplish before you graduate (academic, personal, or professional)?
I hope to win nationals again next year which is right before graduation and also just to make the most out of my PT school experience.
