Stories of Impact

Making the Rockhurst Experience Possible

Sometimes, summer is all about rest and relaxation. But for some seniors, like Samantha Bielman, summer break and senior year are hardly like a day at the beach.

"I'm a little scared, to be honest. I feel like the years have flown by, but I'm also really excited for senior year. I have friends who already have jobs locked up after graduation. I've got plenty to look forward to, but it's also a little scary."

Samantha is a political science major at Rockhurst with a double minor in business and Spanish. Her long-term plans include law school, followed by a career as a corporate attorney in international business. In a way, the native of New Melle, Missouri, is already a member of the workforce. Samantha started dog washing and horse training businesses while going to school. She also spent much of her youth competing in equestrian events. Today, she helps put herself through Rockhurst by working nearly 40 hours a week, as both a nanny and as a personal assistant.

"Balancing work and school—it's been my life. I started my first business at age 8, so I've always been responsible. I've always been that way, not for the fun of it, but because I have to. I work and I go to school during the week and volunteer and hang out with my friends on the weekends. So it all works out."

In addition, Samantha is a recipient of the Goppert Scholarship, an endowed scholarship for Rockhurst students in need of financial assistance. The extra help is what makes her Rockhurst experience possible. And Samantha wants to make sure others get the same opportunity.

"I want to do what this scholarship gave me a chance to do. I want to do that for somebody. I would not be here without this scholarship. When I toured Rockhurst, everyone was so friendly—they would talk and say hi to you, hold open the door—just so friendly. The community is a big part of why I chose Rockhurst. I am so lucky to be able to go to this school."

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