Presidential Rose Scholar Rachel Afulike

Presidential Rose Scholar Spotlight

Rachel Afulike
Chemical Engineering
2026

Rachel Afulike is a chemical engineering student. She chose chemical engineering because it pushes her to use her problem-solving skills. Dr. Carla Losartan challenges students to reach their full potential and encourages community outreach. Rachel is originally from Chicago, IL. She wanted to go to college at a medium-sized school with warm weather, so UT Tyler was a perfect fit. Rachel plans to start working immediately after graduation, then return to UT Tyler for her master's degree in the future.

UT Tyler has played a significant role in shaping Rachel's future. She found both of her internships at the school-hosted career fair. The chemical engineering department will make trips to different chemical plants so they can see what the future will look like. Rachel describes the program as intentional. Dr. Losartan pushes us to do the best of our abilities and do outreach. As one of two women engineers in her graduating class, Rachel says Dr. Losartan has been an incredible influence in her journey.