Rebecca Bohrer
Rebecca ‘Becca’ Bohrer balanced the role of teammate, student, entrepreneur, and mother during her time at VCSU. Now preparing to enter the workforce, Bohrer hopes her story will not only inspire future students, but her children and family as well.
Hometown: Stanley, N.D.
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Physical & Health Education, Minor in Business and Coaching Certification
What are you involved in on campus?
I was a thrower for the VCSU track and field team. I was also involved as a Viking Voyage and New Student Orientation prior to my senior year, helping incoming students get connected and feel at home on campus. I was also a part of Viking Catholic. Being involved in these areas has allowed me to build strong relationships, grow as a leader, and stay connected to both the campus community and my faith throughout my time at VCSU.
What inspired you to major in physical education?
Going into my senior year of high school, I had no idea what I wanted to do after graduation. A few of my teachers actually held a little “intervention meeting” and encouraged me to look into teaching. I decided to give PE/Health a try because I’ve always had a passion for movement, taking care of your whole being, learning new things, and being in community. That first year was honestly a trial run, but by halfway through my first semester, I knew this was my path. I love getting to be a part of shaping future generations and helping students find activities they enjoy and can continue for a lifetime. I want to be that supportive teacher and coach who helps students grow and feel successful.
your perspective on teaching and coaching?Being both a student-athlete and a parent has shaped my perspective in so many ways. It has taught me discipline, time management, empathy, and patience. As an athlete, I’ve learned how to work hard, be part of a team, and push through challenges. As a parent, I’ve gained a deeper level of understanding and compassion. My daughter has been at every track meet since she was born, and my teammates have truly become like family to her. Hearing her cheer for me from the sidelines is something I’ll never take for granted. These experiences have shown me how important it is to create supportive, encouraging environments where students feel valued both in the classroom and in athletics.
How did you balance your academics, athletics, parenting, and running your own business?Balancing everything hasn’t always been easy, but it has taught me a lot about time management and priorities. I rely heavily on routines, planning ahead, and reminding myself to be fully present in whatever role I’m in at that moment. Some days required more focus on academics, while others shifted toward family, athletics, or my business. I started working with a health and wellness company my freshman year, which has allowed me to build a flexible income in the cracks of my day as long as I have my phone and wifi. It’s not always perfect, and the days can be long, but staying organized and keeping my goals in mind helps me continue moving forward.
Becoming a mother completely redefined success for me. It’s no longer just about personal achievement, but about creating a life that my kids can be proud of and inspired by. I want to model hard work, perseverance, and balance, while also showing that it’s possible to pursue your goals without sacrificing your values. It has also given me a deeper sense of gratitude and perspective. I’ve learned to take things day by day and truly appreciate the unique life I get to live.
What motivates you to keep moving forward even on the toughest 
days?
My biggest motivation is my daughter and the example I want to set for her and my future kids. Keeping my goals in mind of both the life I want to build for my family and the impact I hope to have as a teacher and coach keeps me going each day. On the toughest days, I remind myself that everyone has battles and that growth doesn’t come from ease or complacency. I want my story to show others, especially my kids and siblings, that you can dream big and pursue multiple passions. You don’t have to be just one thing.
One of my proudest moments happened recently when I received a phone call offering me a teaching job after an interview. In that moment, everything really hit me with how far I’ve come, how much I’ve taken on, and how much resilience it took to get there. Balancing being a student, athlete, mother, and business owner wasn’t always easy, but that moment reminded me that all the hard work was worth it and that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
I will be teaching K–5 physical education and have the opportunity to be involved in coaching girls’ basketball, track and field, and a summer strength program. My goal is to create a lasting, positive impact on my students through movement and wellness. Personally, I want to continue growing our family which begins with our wedding just after graduation in May. I plan to continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle and building a life rooted in balance, faith, and purpose.
My advice is to stay passionate about movement and people. This field is about so much more than sports, it’s about teaching confidence, health, and habits that students can carry with them for life. Be open to learning, stay patient with yourself, and take every opportunity to get hands-on experience. Most importantly, build relationships. The connections you make with your students, peers, professors, cooperating teachers, and school staff make all the difference. Those relationships are what make this career so fun, meaningful, and rewarding.
