Dear Gators,
I hope this message finds you well and that you are enjoying your Spring Semester. We are almost to spring break and then, before we know it, it will be Commencement. It always seems to move so fast once we get into the semester and start doing the work.
Student Affairs prides itself on putting students first. In that spirit, we want to take this opportunity to center our message on highlighting the incredible students who make our campus community so special.
If you have stopped by the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs suite in recent years, one of the friendly faces you may have met is Rain Charm Carter. Since 2023, Rain has balanced her role in Student Affairs with a full academic load and deep involvement across campus. A fourth-year Pre-Nursing and Public Health major from Fresno, she embodies the engagement, leadership, and Gator pride that define San Francisco State University.
I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Rain to talk about her journey and her experiences here at San Francisco State University.
Can you share what year you’re in and where you’re from?
I am in my 4th year at San Francisco State University and I am from Fresno, California.
What drew you to SFSU and how has your experience been?
Honestly, the culture and the bonus of great academic programs and opportunities. There’s so much history and firsts imbedded in SFSU and the Bay Area. I was excited to have the opportunity to experience San Francisco and receive a great education.
My experience has been great! I have experienced more than I even imagined. I'm involved in so many different communities on campus and off, I will cherish these years and moments created forever.
What are you majoring in and what has been one of the challenges of that work?
I am majoring in Pre-Nursing and Public Health. My biggest challenge was probably the transition of adding my second major. I think it’s always scary to start or add something new especially when you are already so far into one thing, but that is what college is all about, isn’t it!
What are your plans for after you graduate?
I plan on continuing my education by studying Nursing in a Master's Program.
What campus resources have you used during your time here that you think other students should know about?
OH! I have used so many resources. There are too many things the school offers that students should take advantage of and that I have definitely taken advantage of! I feel like I find something new every day.
I would say the biggest thing I took advantage of is the Advisor's office and/ or office hours! College is already hard to maneuver; the advisors try to make it a little easier by helping set and accomplish your goals towards graduation. Another would be using Handshake to apply for a student job and off-campus jobs. There are so many departments and other agencies offering jobs on campus and off. Working on campus has helped me stay connected, create opportunities, and build my network. Lastly, I would say “The Mashouf!” The Mashouf offers many activities and wellness-oriented events. It’s like a one-stop shop for fitness, wellness, health, and fun. I have spent a lot of time there.
What skills or people have helped you succeed at SFSU?This one is easy! The Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment and Campus Recreation! Everyone has been so welcoming and helpful throughout the years I have worked at both places. I have built many relationships, enhanced my departmental skills, and was given and pushed into so many opportunities to develop the business woman I wanted to be. I would also like to shoutout my sorority, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. and my club Jabulani who have also pushed me and helped me succeed at SFSU in so many ways. Thank you to all my advisors and friends, y’all have been the highlight of it all!
Can you share something that you’ve learned at SFSU that isn’t part of your coursework?I have learned how to unapologetically manage businesses. How to work as an executive member and also a team member. How to have professional conversations and greater communication skills. I can say I have definitely grown in confidence to take initiative and problem-solve in many positions.
What advice would you give to a new student arriving on campus for the first time? This is a great question. I would say enjoy college as best as possible! The time does fly by and before you know it, you’ll be a senior taking your last classes! College is about academics and career development, yes, but it’s also about so much more. These next four years will be a big part of your growth as an individual. So, meet people, experience new things, go out, and push yourself! Get involved! There are so many opportunities waiting for you on and off campus! College is what you make it, so have a ball!
What’s one moment or experience here that you’ll always carry with you?Meeting my best friends and sorority sisters! These are people I will cherish forever! College away from home has created a bond with people that is tighter than tight. We are all here to better and push ourselves. It has been a blessing to surround myself with people who are all aiming for different but yet the same goals. We are grinding together! Within that, my friends, sorority sisters, and I operate like siblings/ family. They have definitely become a home away from home. Our college memories will go down in history, for sure! And I can’t wait to accomplish and experience so much more with all of them as we grow in life! Thank you SFSU! And thank you Bay Area!
__________________
Rain’s journey reminds us why we do this work. She has not only excelled academically, but she has leaned fully into community, leadership, wellness, and service embodying the very spirit of engagement that defines San Francisco State University. Her story reflects what is possible when students take advantage of the opportunities around them and when Student Affairs creates spaces where they feel seen, supported, and challenged to grow. As we move closer to Commencement, Rain represents so many of our graduating students who have stretched themselves, built lifelong relationships, and prepared to step confidently into their next chapter. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and grateful for the light she has brought to our campus. Rain, and students like her, are the reason we remain steadfast in our commitment to putting students first today, at graduation, and long after they leave our campus.
With appreciation,
Dr. Jamillah Moore (she/her/hers)
Vice President for Student Affairs
