Meet this week’s Campus Celebrity, Rachel Tejada! This senior on the Illinois State Women’s Soccer team broke the goal record last Friday, September 19. Nine minutes into the second half against Western Michigan at Adelaide Street Field, she made history. It was the sixth goal of the season for Tejada, and she now has 61 goals and counting for her career. HerCampus wanted to know how it felt, what motivates her, and what she does in her free time!
HerCampus ISU: What were you feeling going into that game? After?
Rachel Tejada: Going into the game I felt a bit of natural anxiety mixed with excitement. I knew how close I was to the record and that breaking it during that game in particular was a possibility. That was pushed back on my priority list a bit though because I always try to play for my team first. I really feel we did so well as a unit and my teammates deserve partial credit for any of the success I have encountered in my career. After the game, I felt nothing but excitement for my team and myself. It was a rough game as a whole but we were able to get the win and breaking the record was just icing on the cake. I couldn’t imagine celebrating this accomplishment with anyone else but my teammates.
HC ISU: What has being on the ISU Soccer team meant to you these past three years?
RT: It means so much more than words can describe. You build a second family through your teammates and everyone involved in our success. We are so close and I wouldn’t trade these girls for anything.
HC ISU: How are you feeling about it being your senior year?
RT: It is definitely bittersweet. I am realistic with myself on how close the end of my collegiate career is. With that in mind, I try and put all I can out there on the field. Not only just for me but for my teammates as well.
HC ISU: Who is your biggest role model/supporter?
RT: Besides my teammates and coaches of course, my biggest supporters would be my parents. My mom NEVER misses a game whether it is at home or in Texas, and my dad coached me until I came to college so he has taught me so much about the game. My brother is also a big role model in my life as he played college soccer at the Division 1 level too.
HC ISU: Do you get any time for yourself?
RT: Yeah, but most of that time is spent studying. I try to make academics a priority but really try to live up all the moments I can with my teammates.
HC ISU: How do you spend it?
RT: Most of my time is spent with my teammates whether we are studying or just hanging out. I have a few shows that I watch weekly like The Voice, Chicago Fire and PD, Revenge, Satisfaction, etc.
HC ISU: What is a fun fact about you that not many people know?
RT: My father’s family is from the Philippines. They speak Tagalog fluently. I plan to visit the Philippines sometime after graduating school.
HC ISU: What are your plans after this year?
RT: That is completely up in the air right now! I see myself wanting to continue playing at the next level but who knows…I play in the moment and want to make the most of my senior year.