Member Profile – Rebecca Haas

By Sadonia Corns

Rebecca Haas is the Loan Counselor at Newman University. She began this position in February of 2010 and her two year anniversary is just around the corner. Originally from Wichita and a Maize High graduate, she went onto college at Oklahoma Christian University in Edmond, OK to pursue a degree in Family Studies/Psychology. After graduating in December of 2009, she returned to Wichita. She loves to do craft projects for home décor, shop, hang out with her friends and family. This may include board games, she’s an avid fan and player of them. What many people don’t know is that Rebecca loves watching Christmas specials, especially the clay-animation ones. Remember those? The great ones that are still playing even today, usually on the Family Channel’s 25 Days of Christmas. Her favorite is Santa Claus is Coming to Town, and she even admitted to perhaps being a little obsessed with these classics.

How did you get into the financial aid profession?

I was a work study student in college and loved the atmosphere. I was able to help students and get a sneak peak of our counselors and their ability to help students one-on-one.

What do you like best about working in financial aid?

I love my coworkers and getting to help people. We have a great staff and feel fulfilled from being told by a student or family that you helped them in some way.

What one thing in your life has made the biggest impact on who you are today?

In February 2009 my dad passed away. It was hard to go thru, but his death put perspective on my own life and changed my outlook on it. Those type of events change who you are.

What is the last book you read?

The Hunger Games – I loved the concept and it kept you on the edge of your seat; wanting to finish to see what would happen next.

What was the most interesting trip you have ever taken? Why and what would you suggest people to see if they visited?

Last summer I took a cruise and we stopped at 3 ports. Jamaica was the most interesting, it has a different culture. While there we went to a farmers market, you have to be on your toes there. My suggestion is when going to other countries to BE AWARE. It was fun and safe, but just very different. The vendors were very aggressive.

Name five people, living or dead, that you would like to meet.

Jim Carrey, Marilyn Monroe, Meg Ryan, Jesus and Gregory Milton (was a psychologist who had a very blunt approach to the field – he’d tell you like it is)

Where do you go to “get away”?

The bathtub, I can relax and be in my own little world. Shut the door and turn on the music.

“Oh, Rebecca….she is the girl in the office that keeps us on our toes.  She is constantly making us laugh with her practical jokes, she is the girl that can make any outfit look good and if she doesn’t know an answer she is not afraid to use Google!  Rebecca is very talented, professional and is a perfect member of our financial aid team!” ~ Kara Schwinn, Financial Aid Counselor at Newman University