In a remarkable journey from high school to higher education, a first-generation college graduate shared her experience navigating the financial challenges and barriers to education in Chicago.
Starting her academic career at Richard J. Daley College, she aimed to earn her associate’s degree before progressing to a four-year institution.
Growing up in Roseland and West Pullman, she faced significant financial obstacles.
With limited resources, her family often struggled to make ends meet, leaving little room for expenses beyond food and clothing.
After graduating from Percy L. Julian High School in 2015, she took the fall semester to thoroughly research options for funding her college education.
After discovering the city’s Star Scholarship, she took the significant step to enroll in community college, which she describes as one of the best decisions she ever made.
The Chicago Star Scholarship has had a transformative impact, boasting a 49% graduation rate for its scholars compared to a general graduation rate of only 23.9% among the colleges in the system.
This initiative has supported many Chicago Public Schools graduates in earning their associate’s degrees tuition-free, enabling seamless transfers to four-year institutions often accompanied by additional scholarships.
To qualify as a Star Scholar, candidates must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, be recent Chicago Public Schools graduates, and enroll at one of the city’s community colleges.
By enrolling in Daley College’s communication program, she sought to carve a path toward a media career—a passion ignited during her time in Julian’s TV Broadcasting program.
Determined to graduate within two years, she committed to being a full-time student, even opting for summer classes to meet her educational goals on time.
The financial security provided by the Star Scholarship made a notable difference in her academic journey.
Covering online and in-person classes for up to three years, along with necessary books, the scholarship also allowed beneficiaries to merge it with other financial aid resources, ensuring comprehensive support for various educational costs.
While studying, she worked as a work-study student in the Student Services Center, an opportunity facilitated by the dean of student services—a role that not only provided her with valuable experience but also became her primary source of income.
The flexible hours of the work-study position fit seamlessly with her class schedule, alleviating some of the stress typically associated with juggling work and school commitments.
In June 2017, she received the Norman G. Swenson Scholarship, a recognition that further aided her educational pursuits.
Encouraged by an adviser to apply, she submitted her application with a recommendation from a former professor, which ultimately led to her selection.
Upon receiving the scholarship, she saved the funds to cover expenses at St. Xavier University, where she transferred with a continuation of the Star Scholarship, aiding her tuition costs.
Through her experience, she highlights the often-overlooked opportunity community colleges provide for individuals aiming to shift their life trajectories.
With heartfelt gratitude, she recommends these institutions to recent high school graduates seeking a pathway to enhance their lives.
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