Spotlights
Rhye Mirch '14
Employer
UX Designer
LinkedIn Profile
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhyemirch
1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
I wasn’t able to find a full-time job for 2 years after
graduation at GVSU. I knew I wanted to be a science teacher at an
underserved school, but there were no full time jobs available in
Grand Rapids with my skillset from my GVSU Biopsychology degree. I
applied to my first job out of state as a teacher apprentice in
Denver, CO, and got it! I’ve moved to Colorado and worked as a middle
school teacher for 4 years. Fighting for racial equity was challenging
and during the pandemic, I had to find a new path. Today I am a
product designer for a cable company. It pays well but does not offer
a chance to make a difference. But with my my increased tech salary, I
volunteer and am politically active in my community.
2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
Leading my first Alternative Breaks trip to Baltimore, MD for the
affordable housing trip. All of my AB experiences were
transformational but the one I site lead was probably my favorite. It
was really cool seeing myself in a leadership position, ensuring
inclusivity and service learning.
3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Your self-worth is not determined by your productivity, your
worth is inherent like the worth of all beings
4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand
Valley experience.
Isolating, white supremacy culture, oppressive
5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
Collective liberation for all beings, led by racial justice and
Indigenous sovereignty
July 2024
Interest Area(s)
Biology, Psychology
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