Raquisha will be a high school biology teacher in August. She cheered at the University of Georgia. Meet her and other Science Cheerleaders March 21-28 at these Atlanta Science Festival events!
How do you feel about breaking down negative stereotypes about cheerleaders? Have you faced a situation where you had to challenge a stereotype about cheerleaders [or scientists]?
I have had to break down many stereotypes in my life and I continuously make an effort to do so. As a competition cheerleader I did not face as many stereotypes because most people around me knew the difficulties associated with competition cheer. It actually helped me to gain a lot of respect from others.
Best cheerleading experience?
My best cheerleading experience definitely has to be winning a national championship.
Best science-related experience?
My best science-related experience was creating my first game during a computer science class.
If you could rewind the clock and change your degree, would you? If so, to what and why? If not, why not?
I would have probably stuck to my original major of computer science; however, I would not change anything at this moment because I am now learning to code. I am thankful for my political science degree as I will draw from it when I am making policy changes to the education system.
What’s one thing people might find especially surprising about you?
I was home-schooled until high school. Most people find that to be surprising given my personality and the fact that I was a cheerleader even during home school.
What do you do in your free time?
Eating-everything, I love trying new foods. I enjoy arts and crafts-creating home décor, learning to sew, creating gifts for others. I enjoy reading books about spirituality, thrillers, fiction, and others. I love Grey’s Anatomy, Nashville, and House Hunters.
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to attend graduate school, start teaching computer programming to children, write a children’s book, and possibly attend law school. The possibilities are endless.
Why do you want to be a Science Cheerleader?
I want to be a Science Cheerleader because I love what this organization stands for. I have spent a great deal of time breaking the mold and stepping outside of the box. I feel that Science Cheer is showcasing the woman who are following their dreams no matter what challenges they may have faced and I would love to share a space with such powerful and inspirational woman!
National championship cheerleader and biology teacher
