The UW–Madison School of Education offers academic excellence in areas spanning the arts, health, and education. We are a proud community of innovative leaders, creative thinkers, and fearless trailblazers. Our talented students are committed to making their college experience a meaningful journey that aligns with their interests and helps them achieve their future goals.
Following is a Q&A with River Kratochvil, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Psychology and graduating in spring 2026.
Where are you from and how did you become interested in pursuing a degree in this field? I’m originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I became interested in Rehabilitation Psychology through my own lived experiences as a disabled and neurodivergent person. I was drawn to the field because it centers both individual support and broader systems of access, equity, and empowerment.
How did you decide that you wanted to become at UW–Madison Badger? UW–Madison stood out to me because of the strength of the School of Education and the opportunities to connect academic learning with real-world advocacy and community engagement. The Rehabilitation Psychology program, in particular, aligned closely with my values and long-term goals.
What has been your most meaningful experience with the Rehabilitation Psychology program? One of my most meaningful experiences has been serving as a key member of a PhotoVoice community-based research project focused on autism advocacy and pride. This project centered community members to better understand advocacy journeys and uplift autistic voices. This work developed my understanding of participatory research and reinforced my interest in research.
What class or professor has had the greatest impact on you, and why? A professor who has been especially encouraging and supportive of my learning, goals, and work is Dr. Garrett Huck. His approach to teaching and mentorship has helped me feel more confident in my academic abilities and more grounded in my future direction within the field.
What are your future goals or plans? I plan to pursue a career in Mental Health Counseling. My long-term goal is to work in disability-affirming counseling and advocacy spaces, with a focus on supporting disabled and neurodivergent individuals through accessible, inclusive, and justice-oriented care.
Do you have any tips for students thinking about how to maximize their experience? My biggest tip is to get involved early and follow what genuinely interests you, even if it doesn’t look like a traditional resume-builder. Building community, seeking mentorship, and trusting your values can make your experiences far more meaningful.
Have you participated in any internship/work experience, research, or study abroad program? What did you participate in and could you talk a bit more about those experiences? I am involved in student organizing on campus, including founding NeuroPride, a student organization dedicated to supporting neurodivergent students. I have also had the opportunity to serve as a staff member at Sex Out Loud, UW–Madison’s peer-to-peer sexual health resource. Being involved in these communities has been a defining element of my college experience.