CASNews student spotlight: Alexandra Raloff

Name: Alexandra Raloff
Year: Junior
Major: Mathematics teacher education
Minor: English
Hometown: Tinley Park

What brought you to Illinois State University and the College of Arts and Sciences?

“When I was looking for a university to attend, I wanted somewhere that was close to home for when I want to see my family, but also far enough to gain a sense of independence. I also know Illinois State is known as a good university to attend if you want to go into teaching, so that was a major part of my decision-making as well. When it comes to coming to the College of Arts and Sciences, I have always enjoyed the challenge and satisfaction of solving challenging math problems, and I wanted to further pursue mathematics alongside going into teaching. It’s also really nice being able to add my English minor as well, since writing and literature are personal interests of mine.”

How have you gotten involved at Illinois State?

“I’ve made many friends on campus and like to attend university events like Welcome Week, and I’ve been in a few RSOs (registered student organizations), but I’m most involved in the RSO Vocal Movement. I’m the current treasurer, one of the choreographers, the soprano 2 section leader, and I have a lot of friends in the group, so I spend a lot of time with them. I’m also in the Honors Program and have taken fun honors seminars and explorations, but my favorite honors experience so far has been the Alternative Spring Break trip to Cumberland State Park in Tennessee. Helping build trails made me feel more connected to nature and myself, and it was very rewarding to see all the progress our hard work helped contribute to.”

What is your proudest or happiest moment so far at Illinois State?

“I’ve had many happy moments and moments where I was proud of myself at Illinois State, but one that stands out to me was on the last day of my Honors Alternative Spring Break trip when we took a break from working on the trail to spend time at Daddy’s Creek. Clearing the duff on the trail was very physically demanding work, and I was so proud of myself for sticking with it and doing my best every day, even when I was sore and the walk in got longer and longer each day from all the duff we managed to clear as a group. That time we spent on the last day at the creek made me really appreciate all the work we put in, and I was so proud of myself for sticking with it even when it was hard, and that made that time spent at the creek with the friends I’ve made feel even more precious.”

Associate Professor Óscar Chavez on Raloff:

“Alexandra was my student in MAT 211. She always had a happy disposition and a keen interest in geometry. I could always count on meticulous work from her. I think that proof writing is a creative endeavor. Alexandra’s proofs in my class were always a pleasure to read, carefully crafted arguments rather than blind application of a procedure. She has an inquisitive mind, she is a profound thinker, and an excellent team player. She has varied interests which, I’m sure, will give her a broader view of education. I think Alexandra has a very bright future as a mathematics teacher. Her students will be very fortunate to learn from her.”

Read more stories from the College of Arts and Sciences at News.IllinoisState.edu/Unit/College-Arts-Sciences and follow the college on Facebook and Instagram.