Meet Rachel Kilts, OCSD Alumna, Class of 2016

Rachel's fondest memories of her time at OCSD revolve around the many opportunities she had to get involved. She especially enjoyed participating in Drama Club, playing on the golf team, spending time in the chorus and band rooms, and traveling on memorable band and chorus trips.

After graduating from high school, Rachel participated in the Rotary Youth Exchange Program, where she lived and attended school in Thailand for a year. Upon returning to the United States, she earned a bachelor's degree in Recreation Management from SUNY Brockport. During her final semester, she completed an internship at Fripp Island in South Carolina, an experience that helped shape her professional path.

When it came time to return to New York, Rachel sought a career similar to the work she had enjoyed in South Carolina, which ultimately led her to make Lake Placid her home. She initially worked in the hospitality industry but soon realized she was looking for a more personal and fulfilling work environment. She transitioned to working in childcare, drawing on experience she had gained through part-time daycare work during college.

After the daycare where she worked unexpectedly closed, Rachel took a position as a waitress while also babysitting and dog sitting on the side. These experiences allowed her to build strong connections within the Lake Placid community and meet many wonderful people along the way.

One family she worked closely with for several years became especially meaningful. After getting to know Rachel through her care for their three children, they approached her with an exciting opportunity: managing a new business they were opening. Today, Rachel serves as the manager of Nippletop Liquors on Main Street in Lake Placid.

Rachel says she loves the beautiful store, the family she works for, and the relationships she has built within the community. What began as a series of unexpected opportunities has led her to a career she truly enjoys, doing work that is both rewarding and meaningful.

To future graduates, Rachel offers this advice: "Work hard, find the fun in life, and be open to anything. You can have a plan, and life might pull you in a different direction. Be kind, you never know the people you will meet or the opportunity it will bring you!"