---
title: What PHC's new RD learned from working with hurting teens
description: Get to know PHC's new female RD! Rachel spent 8 months after graduation working at Christian Encounter Ranch, a residential program for troubled teens.
image: https://www.phc.edu/hubfs/Rachel%20McCracken%20image.png
---

<https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/rachel-mccracken-cer#> <https://www.phc.edu/>

<https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/rachel-mccracken-cer#>

540-338-1776

[![Patrick Henry College logo](https://www.phc.edu/hubfs/Shield%2c%20Tag%2c%20Color%2c%201%20line%2c%20RGB.jpg "Patrick Henry College logo")](https://www.phc.edu)

[![Patrick Henry College](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/PHC%20(1).png?width=800&height=400&name=PHC%20(1).png "Patrick Henry College")](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc)

# What PHC's new RD learned from working with hurting teens

Posted by [Hannah Gaschler](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/author/hannah-gaschler) on 8/14/24 2:32 PM

- [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share)

![Rachel McCracken blog banner](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/Rachel%20McCracken%20blog%20banner.gif?width=714&height=599&name=Rachel%20McCracken%20blog%20banner.gif)

“May I never forget on my best days that I still need God as desperately as on my worst days.” Rachel McCracken ([CLA](https://www.phc.edu/major-in-classical-liberal-arts), ‘23) wrote this quote in her Bible and looked at it regularly over the 8 months she worked at [Christian Encounter Ranch (CER)](https://www.christianencounter.org/), a residential program in California for troubled teens. “I[ needed Christ](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/seeking-god-in-college) when I was at the ranch in a way that I hadn’t realized I needed him before,” she said. She started this month as PHC’s female Resident Director, and these are some lessons she carries with her from her most recent job. 

![McCracken with interns2](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/McCracken%20with%20interns2.jpg?width=340&height=255&name=McCracken%20with%20interns2.jpg)At CER, she cared for teens who came from hurting homes or were stuck in unhealthy patterns. Each day, she and other interns (several pictured) worked alongside students ages 15-21 doing chores like felling trees, scrubbing floors, washing dishes, and making meals. “A lot of these students had lived with a lot of neglect or trauma in their lives to the point they were in survival mode and weren’t learning basic life skills,” she said. If they weren’t working or doing homework, McCracken enjoyed activities with the students like pressing flowers, flying kites, going fishing, or playing Monopoly.  
[![More about the CLA major](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1718959/90fb8282-f76e-4e7d-965e-fe92dba56551.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1718959/90fb8282-f76e-4e7d-965e-fe92dba56551)McCracken initially came to PHC planning to pursue legal advocacy. But after being a camp counselor the summer before her junior year, she realized God had [given her the heart and talents for the relational.](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/books-and-calling) She switched majors from [GOV-APP](https://www.phc.edu/app) to [CLA](https://www.phc.edu/major-in-classical-liberal-arts) and added a [minor in Biblical Studies](https://www.phc.edu/minor-in-biblical-studies). “I loved the education that it provided and the way that it allowed me to really learn how to think deeply about so many different things,” she said.

McCracken first visited CER when PHC alumnus [Jensen Near](https://www.phc.edu/news/alumnus-highlight-jensen-near) (‘10), CER’s Intern Director and Director of Student Life, invited students to serve over spring break in 2023. Her heart went out to the students at the ranch, and she was struck by what the interns exhibited. “I recognized that was the Lord working through them and teaching them to live in the way in which they were, and I wanted that,” she said. She started working as an intern in September 2023.  
[![Read about Jensen's journey to helping teens](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1718959/d8e93182-e48f-4637-a7dc-6e7c4221b742.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1718959/d8e93182-e48f-4637-a7dc-6e7c4221b742)![McCracken cleaning](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/McCracken%20cleaning.jpg?width=232&height=309&name=McCracken%20cleaning.jpg)Sometimes she had great conversations while doing chores with the students, like with a boy who loved talking about philosophy, theology, and politics, asking questions like “How old is the earth? How do we know?” Often, it wasn’t a fun work environment, since her job was to keep the kids working. She faced pushback, especially from students with struggling work ethics. “As their primary disciplinarian, I was helping them to instill healthy habits that honor the Lord but would also break them out of the cycle they were in,” she said.  

She found it challenging to love those who abused or discarded her love for them, but she realized they didn't understand the Lord’s love. Living with hurting people and consistently practicing love and forgiveness helped her see the Lord’s heart for herself. “As I loved a student when they were not treating me the way that they should have, I saw the way that I treat God and the way he loves me through it—which was astounding.”

![Rachel McCracken quote](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/Rachel%20McCracken%20quote.png?width=6912&height=2304&name=Rachel%20McCracken%20quote.png)  
Sometimes she saw the gospel suddenly “click” for students. “When you’re having a conversation with a student that you’ve been mentoring and discipling and loving for like seven months—and praying for—and then all of a sudden you see them understand, it hits you in a way that I can’t even describe.”

![Rachel McCracken sunset](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/Rachel%20McCracken%20sunset.jpg?width=181&height=241&name=Rachel%20McCracken%20sunset.jpg)Working at CER opened McCracken’s eyes to the fact that everyone's story has its own complexities and sorrow—even at PHC.  “It was so cool to live alongside God’s children and have my capacity for grace expand in the way that I view people,” she said. This came from a better understanding of the Lord’s grace for her.  “I feel like I’m walking away from Christian Encounter with a weight off my shoulders that I spent the first 22 years of my life carrying.”

McCracken realized that Christ is more concerned about his relationship with his children than with their perfection. “I can go bomb it, and yet God’s plans and purposes can still come to fruition,” she said. “My motivation for excellence should be because I love the Lord; not because it has to be perfect in order for God’s purposes to be accomplished.”

[![Spiritual life at PHC](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1718959/685c8358-3900-41e3-a0f5-893c69d77266.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1718959/685c8358-3900-41e3-a0f5-893c69d77266)Now, when challenging or encouraging others, she focuses more on their relationship with Christ than on their actions, because that’s what Christ does for her. “When he looks at me, he already declares me righteous. He knows that the only way I’ll ever be what he has declared me to be is to fall more deeply in love with him, so he goes after my heart,” she said.

McCracken served as a [Resident Assistant](https://www.phc.edu/residence-life-team) for two years at PHC, and she is excited to return. “I am SO excited to be living in this community again with all of the incredible people and my brothers and sisters in the Lord that make up PHC,” she said. “And I’m just incredibly excited to see the ways in which God is going to call me into people’s lives and where I’ll get to have a front-row seat to the work that he is doing!” 

--

[![Major in Classical Liberal Arts at Patrick Henry College](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/Classical%20Liberal%20Arts-Jul-23-2024-04-18-46-2857-PM.png?width=715&height=421&name=Classical%20Liberal%20Arts-Jul-23-2024-04-18-46-2857-PM.png)](https://www.phc.edu/major-in-classical-liberal-arts)

* Patrick Henry College exists to glorify God by challenging the status quo in higher education, lifting high both faith and reason within a rigorous academic environment; thereby preserving for posterity the ideals behind the "noble experiment in ordered liberty" that is the foundation of America.*

 

##### Search LearnPHC posts by keyword(s)

### Popular Posts

### Browse by Category

- [college (181)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/college)
- [Patrick Henry College (150)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/patrick-henry-college)
- [PHC (140)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/phc)
- [College Education (126)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/college-education)
- [student life (124)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/student-life)
- [College Students (122)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/college-students)
- [liberal arts (122)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/liberal-arts)
- [classical liberal arts (116)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/classical-liberal-arts)
- [christian (109)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/christian)
- [campus life (101)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/campus-life)
- [classical christian liberal arts (95)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/classical-christian-liberal-arts)
- [PatrickHenryCollege (89)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/patrickhenrycollege)
- [Student Spotlight (81)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/student-spotlight)
- [top christian college (81)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/top-christian-college)
- [High School (77)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/high-school)
- [students (77)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/students)
- [Spiritual Life (76)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/spiritual-life)
- [christian education (73)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/christian-education)
- [conservative (69)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/conservative)
- [Conservative Christian College (66)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/conservative-christian-college)
- [Leadership (65)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/leadership)
- [conservativechristiancollege (61)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/conservativechristiancollege)
- [Alumni Spotlight (60)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/alumni-spotlight)
- [Biblical Worldview (57)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/biblical-worldview)
- [college life (54)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/college-life)
- [PHC Prepared (52)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/phc-prepared)
- [Worldview (52)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/worldview)
- [Community (51)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/community)
- [education (50)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/education)
- [academic (44)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/academic)
- [classical (44)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/classical)
- [religious liberty (44)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/religious-liberty)
- [student (43)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/student)
- [alumni (40)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/alumni)
- [jobs (40)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/jobs)
- [Internships and Apprenticeships (38)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/internships-and-apprenticeships)
- [biblical truth (37)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/biblical-truth)
- [faith (37)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/faith)
- [Alumni Work (34)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/alumni-work)
- [Faculty (34)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/faculty)
- [Core (33)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/core)
- [LiberalArts (33)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/liberalarts)
- [bachelor of arts (33)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/bachelor-of-arts)
- [College Truths (32)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/college-truths)
- [Teaching (32)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/teaching)
- [alumni profile (31)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/alumni-profile)
- [private college (30)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/private-college)
- [College Prep (29)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/college-prep)
- [History (29)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/history)
- [journalism (29)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/journalism)
- [learning (29)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/learning)
- [politics (27)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/politics)
- [admissions (26)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/admissions)
- [internship (26)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/internship)
- [department of classical liberal arts (25)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/department-of-classical-liberal-arts)
- [literature (25)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/literature)
- [student body (24)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/student-body)
- [study (23)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/study)
- [Professors (22)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/professors)
- [phclife (22)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/phclife)
- [Economics and Business Analytics (21)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/economics-and-business-analytics)
- [government (21)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/government)
- [American Politics and Policy (20)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/american-politics-and-policy)
- [Bible (20)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/bible)
- [history major (20)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/history-major)
- [literature major (20)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/literature-major)
- [quizzes (20)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/quizzes)
- [Distinctives (19)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/distinctives)
- [Faculty Spotlight (19)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/faculty-spotlight)
- [government major (19)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/government-major)
- [Strategic Intelligence (18)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/strategic-intelligence)
- [dorm life (18)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/dorm-life)
- [music (18)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/music)
- [pre-law (18)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/pre-law)
- [constitutional law (17)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/constitutional-law)
- [Local Community (16)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/local-community)
- [experience (16)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/experience)
- [quiz (16)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/quiz)
- [student organizations (16)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/student-organizations)
- [moot court (15)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/moot-court)
- [music department (15)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/music-department)
- [student involvement (15)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/student-involvement)
- [Culture (14)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/culture)
- [classes (14)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/classes)
- [classical education (14)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/classical-education)
- [collegetruths (14)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/collegetruths)
- [interview (14)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/interview)
- [senior (14)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/senior)
- [teen camps (14)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/teen-camps)
- [EnvironmentalScience&Stewardship (13)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/environmentalsciencestewardship)
- [classics (13)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/classics)
- [department of government (13)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/department-of-government)
- [forensics (13)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/forensics)
- [political theory (13)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/political-theory)
- [mentorship (12)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/mentorship)
- [professional (12)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/professional)
- [science (12)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/science)
- [student activities (12)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/student-activities)
- [truth (12)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/truth)
- [writing (12)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/writing)
- [Applying to College (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/applying-to-college)
- [CLA (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/cla)
- [career guidance (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/career-guidance)
- [curriculum (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/curriculum)
- [debate (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/debate)
- [excellence (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/excellence)
- [free speech (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/free-speech)
- [freshman (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/freshman)
- [international (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/international)
- [political journalism (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/political-journalism)
- [professionalism (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/professionalism)
- [purcellville (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/purcellville)
- [virtue (11)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/virtue)
- [Pro-Life (10)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/pro-life)
- [law school (10)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/law-school)
- [theology (10)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/theology)
- [Admission (9)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/admission)
- [Presentations (9)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/presentations)
- [Travel (9)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/travel)
- [family (9)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/family)
- [friend (9)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/friend)
- [gender identity (9)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/gender-identity)
- [resume (9)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/resume)
- [white house (9)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/white-house)
- [Jesus (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/jesus)
- [Michael Farris (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/michael-farris)
- [alliance defending freedom (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/alliance-defending-freedom)
- [athletics (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/athletics)
- [faith and reason (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/faith-and-reason)
- [full-time-faculty (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/full-time-faculty)
- [fun (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/fun)
- [imago dei (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/imago-dei)
- [lifeatphc (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/lifeatphc)
- [orientation (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/orientation)
- [political philosophy (8)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/political-philosophy)
- [Intelligence Community (7)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/intelligence-community)
- [Mental health (7)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/mental-health)
- [apprenticeships (7)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/apprenticeships)
- [character (7)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/character)
- [homeschool (7)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/homeschool)
- [law (7)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/law)
- [public policy (7)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/public-policy)
- [sports (7)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/sports)
- [western civilization (7)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/western-civilization)
- [Christian community (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/christian-community)
- [Education News (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/education-news)
- [Harmful History (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/harmful-history)
- [PatrickHenryCollegeNews (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/patrickhenrycollegenews)
- [arts (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/arts)
- [book (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/book)
- [c.s. lewis (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/c-s-lewis)
- [christians (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/christians)
- [english (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/english)
- [entrepreneurship (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/entrepreneurship)
- [fellowship (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/fellowship)
- [freshman class (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/freshman-class)
- [job interview (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/job-interview)
- [mock trial (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/mock-trial)
- [philosophy (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/philosophy)
- [prayer (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/prayer)
- [the human soul (6)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/the-human-soul)
- [College applications (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/college-applications)
- [God's Word (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/gods-word)
- [Herald (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/herald)
- [International policy (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/international-policy)
- [america (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/america)
- [church (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/church)
- [events (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/events)
- [extracurriculars (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/extracurriculars)
- [job (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/job)
- [local politics (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/local-politics)
- [loudoun county (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/loudoun-county)
- [ministry (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/ministry)
- [organization (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/organization)
- [parents (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/parents)
- [resident assistant (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/resident-assistant)
- [teen leadership camps (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/teen-leadership-camps)
- [worship (5)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/worship)
- [2024 (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/2024)
- [Application (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/application)
- [College Programs (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/college-programs)
- [March for Life (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/march-for-life)
- [Storytelling (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/storytelling)
- [chapel (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/chapel)
- [christmas (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/christmas)
- [cover letter (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/cover-letter)
- [discipleship (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/discipleship)
- [distance learning (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/distance-learning)
- [english major (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/english-major)
- [finances (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/finances)
- [friendship (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/friendship)
- [grad school (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/grad-school)
- [graduation (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/graduation)
- [intelligence (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/intelligence)
- [math (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/math)
- [missions trip (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/missions-trip)
- [non-profit (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/non-profit)
- [soccer (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/soccer)
- [study abroad (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/study-abroad)
- [tech tips (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/tech-tips)
- [theater (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/theater)
- [videos (4)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/videos)
- [Business News (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/business-news)
- [Department of Biblical Studies (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/department-of-biblical-studies)
- [EBA (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/eba)
- [Integrated Math & Natural Sciences (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/integrated-math-natural-sciences)
- [International Politics & Policy (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/international-politics-policy)
- [LSAT (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/lsat)
- [Moot Court competition (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/moot-court-competition)
- [PHIG (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/phig)
- [adjunct-faculty (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/adjunct-faculty)
- [advent (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/advent)
- [advice (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/advice)
- [basketball (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/basketball)
- [biology (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/biology)
- [chorale (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/chorale)
- [civic debate (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/civic-debate)
- [clubs (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/clubs)
- [concert (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/concert)
- [cyber (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/cyber)
- [cyber challenge (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/cyber-challenge)
- [eduction (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/eduction)
- [ess (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/ess)
- [freedom (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/freedom)
- [global studies (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/global-studies)
- [healthy habits (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/healthy-habits)
- [international justice mission (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/international-justice-mission)
- [national security (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/national-security)
- [online classes (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/online-classes)
- [personhood (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/personhood)
- [phcprepared (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/phcprepared)
- [reason (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/reason)
- [volunteering (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/volunteering)
- [wing chapel (3)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/wing-chapel)
- [ACTA (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/acta)
- [Bible Bee (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/bible-bee)
- [Christian Encounter Ranch (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/christian-encounter-ranch)
- [Core Curriculum (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/core-curriculum)
- [Filmmaking (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/filmmaking)
- [Fox (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/fox)
- [George Washington (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/george-washington)
- [Heritage Foundation (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/heritage-foundation)
- [Homeland Security (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/homeland-security)
- [Lifestyle Writing (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/lifestyle-writing)
- [Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/ministerial-to-advance-religious-freedom)
- [Ministry partners (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/ministry-partners)
- [North Korea (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/north-korea)
- [Pre-Med (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/pre-med)
- [Resident Directors (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/resident-directors)
- [STEM (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/stem)
- [Student Government (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/student-government)
- [What Will They Learn (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/what-will-they-learn)
- [advocacy (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/advocacy)
- [apologetics (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/apologetics)
- [author (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/author)
- [chemistry (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/chemistry)
- [chorale tour (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/chorale-tour)
- [churches (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/churches)
- [civic virtue (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/civic-virtue)
- [counselors (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/counselors)
- [dorm (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/dorm)
- [drama troupe (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/drama-troupe)
- [essay (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/essay)
- [film (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/film)
- [foreign language (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/foreign-language)
- [grace (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/grace)
- [graduate (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/graduate)
- [intramural (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/intramural)
- [isi (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/isi)
- [israel (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/israel)
- [lessons & carols (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/lessons-carols)
- [ministry abroad (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/ministry-abroad)
- [missions' work (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/missions-work)
- [music minor (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/music-minor)
- [new dorm (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/new-dorm)
- [physics (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/physics)
- [play (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/play)
- [political freedom (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/political-freedom)
- [religious persecution (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/religious-persecution)
- [scholarships (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/scholarships)
- [senior testimony (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/senior-testimony)
- [shapingtheculture (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/shapingtheculture)
- [shiloh (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/shiloh)
- [student workers (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/student-workers)
- [students for life (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/students-for-life)
- [studentworker (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/studentworker)
- [technology (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/technology)
- [theatre (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/theatre)
- [top conservative college (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/top-conservative-college)
- [values (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/values)
- [virtuous life (2)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/virtuous-life)
- [21 Wilberforce (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/21-wilberforce)
- [5Ks (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/5ks)
- [AI (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/ai)
- [CIA (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/cia)
- [Concerned Women for America (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/concerned-women-for-america)
- [DOD (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/dod)
- [DOJ (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/doj)
- [EBA minor (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/eba-minor)
- [Economic and natural resources (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/economic-and-natural-resources)
- [FBI (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/fbi)
- [Founders (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/founders)
- [Founding Fathers (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/founding-fathers)
- [Generation Joshua (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/generation-joshua)
- [Georgetown (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/georgetown)
- [Guest Lecture (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/guest-lecture)
- [Hospitality (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/hospitality)
- [IJM (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/ijm)
- [John Lennox (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/john-lennox)
- [Kevin Sorbo (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/kevin-sorbo)
- [LSAT prep (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/lsat-prep)
- [MarchforLife (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/marchforlife)
- [Meet and Greet (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/meet-and-greet)
- [NBB (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/nbb)
- [NBBC (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/nbbc)
- [New Guard Press (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/new-guard-press)
- [Os Guinness (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/os-guinness)
- [Patrick Henry (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/patrick-henry)
- [Pensmore Foundation (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/pensmore-foundation)
- [RA (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/ra)
- [RaiseRight (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/raiseright)
- [Reporter (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/reporter)
- [Republicans (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/republicans)
- [Roman history (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/roman-history)
- [Sentinels (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/sentinels)
- [Solheim (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/solheim)
- [South Africa (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/south-africa)
- [Taiwan (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/taiwan)
- [Technical Writer (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/technical-writer)
- [Tolkien (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/tolkien)
- [TraceyMcGrath (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/traceymcgrath)
- [Veith (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/veith)
- [Village Mercy (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/village-mercy)
- [Virginia (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/virginia)
- [Visitors (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/visitors)
- [WORLD Magazine (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/world-magazine)
- [Young Americans for Freedom (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/young-americans-for-freedom)
- [academic majors (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/academic-majors)
- [acting (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/acting)
- [adaption (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/adaption)
- [adoption (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/adoption)
- [advancement (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/advancement)
- [alumni association (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/alumni-association)
- [americanheritage (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/americanheritage)
- [analytics (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/analytics)
- [asian studies (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/asian-studies)
- [athleisure (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/athleisure)
- [awards (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/awards)
- [baseball (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/baseball)
- [biblical studies minor (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/biblical-studies-minor)
- [board of trustees (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/board-of-trustees)
- [business casual dress code (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/business-casual-dress-code)
- [business plan (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/business-plan)
- [campaign (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/campaign)
- [camps (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/camps)
- [cell phone (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/cell-phone)
- [champions (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/champions)
- [club sports (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/club-sports)
- [communication (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/communication)
- [conference (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/conference)
- [congressman (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/congressman)
- [creative writing (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/creative-writing)
- [criminal justice reform (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/criminal-justice-reform)
- [cyber 912 (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/cyber-912)
- [cyber strategy (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/cyber-strategy)
- [degree (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/degree)
- [devotional (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/devotional)
- [donate (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/donate)
- [drama (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/drama)
- [ed veith (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/ed-veith)
- [election (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/election)
- [fall (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/fall)
- [farming (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/farming)
- [fitness (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/fitness)
- [fitness routine (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/fitness-routine)
- [genj (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/genj)
- [gospel (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/gospel)
- [government minor (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/government-minor)
- [grief (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/grief)
- [homecoming (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/homecoming)
- [identity (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/identity)
- [incoming class (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/incoming-class)
- [intercollegiate studies institute (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/intercollegiate-studies-institute)
- [jack fowler (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/jack-fowler)
- [joy (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/joy)
- [khatchkar (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/khatchkar)
- [liberty (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/liberty)
- [library (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/library)
- [logic (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/logic)
- [loss (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/loss)
- [love (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/love)
- [loving learning (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/loving-learning)
- [marriage (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/marriage)
- [meaning (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/meaning)
- [meditation (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/meditation)
- [mercy (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/mercy)
- [missiontrip (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/missiontrip)
- [mobile phone (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/mobile-phone)
- [money (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/money)
- [mortality (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/mortality)
- [national review (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/national-review)
- [new year (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/new-year)
- [nighttoshine (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/nighttoshine)
- [northern virginia (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/northern-virginia)
- [open letter (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/open-letter)
- [painting (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/painting)
- [patrick henry policy institute (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/patrick-henry-policy-institute)
- [philosopher (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/philosopher)
- [photography. (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/photography)
- [plato (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/plato)
- [podcasts (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/podcasts)
- [poitics (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/poitics)
- [political persecution (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/political-persecution)
- [political theory retreat (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/political-theory-retreat)
- [powderpuff (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/powderpuff)
- [principles of biblical reasoning (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/principles-of-biblical-reasoning)
- [racial persecution (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/racial-persecution)
- [retreat (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/retreat)
- [running club (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/running-club)
- [sacs (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/sacs)
- [sadness (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/sadness)
- [sanctity of life (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/sanctity-of-life)
- [screen time (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/screen-time)
- [security (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/security)
- [senate (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/senate)
- [sentinelsstandingstrong (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/sentinelsstandingstrong)
- [social media (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/social-media)
- [sorrow (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/sorrow)
- [support (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/support)
- [swing dance (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/swing-dance)
- [thankfulness (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/thankfulness)
- [thanksgiving (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/thanksgiving)
- [theworldandeverythinginit (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/theworldandeverythinginit)
- [tips (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/tips)
- [top colleges (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/top-colleges)
- [traditions (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/traditions)
- [ultramarathon (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/ultramarathon)
- [unwoke (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/unwoke)
- [volleyball (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/volleyball)
- [worldview academy (1)](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/topic/worldview-academy)

[See All](https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/rachel-mccracken-cer#)

[Follow @patrickhenrycol](https://twitter.com/patrickhenrycol)

> [Patrick Henry College](https://www.facebook.com/patrick.henry.college/)

[![Subscribe to LearnPHC Now!](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1718959/68c52b25-49f7-4d88-8d24-fe890f4cc4f6.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1718959/68c52b25-49f7-4d88-8d24-fe890f4cc4f6)

[![PatrickHenryCollege-seal](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/Campus_Documentation/Images/PatrickHenryCollege-seal.png?width=100&height=101&name=PatrickHenryCollege-seal.png "PatrickHenryCollege-seal")](https://www.phc.edu)

[![PHC Facebook](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/PHC-FB-Icon.png?width=40&name=PHC-FB-Icon.png "PHC Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/patrick.henry.college) [![PHC - x](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/PHC%20-%20x.png?width=40&height=40&name=PHC%20-%20x.png)](https://twitter.com/patrickhenrycol) [![PHC LinkedIn](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/PHC-LI-Icon.png?width=40&name=PHC-LI-Icon.png "PHC LinkedIn")](https://www.linkedin.com/company/patrick-henry-college) [![PHC Instagram](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/PHC-Ig-Icon.png?width=40&name=PHC-Ig-Icon.png "PHC Instagram")](https://www.instagram.com/patrickhenrycollege/) [![PHC Pinterest](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/PHC-Pn-Icon.png?width=40&name=PHC-Pn-Icon.png "PHC Pinterest")](https://www.pinterest.com/patrickhenrycol/) [![PHC YouTube ](https://www.phc.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/New_Design_Images/PHC-YT-Icon.png?width=40&name=PHC-YT-Icon.png "PHC YouTube ")](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeDF1z2oL8BCEZv8nEeQ5ug)

© 2021 Patrick Henry College

[540-338-1776](tel:15403381776) | [communication@phc.edu](mailto:communication@phc.edu)

10 Patrick Henry Circle | Purcellville | VA | 20132

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Hannah Gaschler",
    "url" : "https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/author/hannah-gaschler"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2024-08-14T18:38:41.173Z",
  "datePublished" : "2024-08-14T18:32:19.000Z",
  "headline" : "What PHC's new RD learned from working with hurting teens",
  "image" : [ "https://www.phc.edu/hubfs/Rachel%20McCracken%20image.png" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://www.phc.edu/learnphc/rachel-mccracken-cer",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://www.phc.edu/hubfs/Campus_Documentation/Images/New_Design_Images/PHC-Interior-logo.png"
    },
    "name" : "Patrick Henry College | for Christ and for Liberty"
  }
}
```