The post Learning by doing, without debt: Cal Poly awards Mosaic Scholarships to 3 Scholars appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

My name is Nicole Orduno Gonzalez. I am a first-generation Mexican American, but that is not all that I am. I am the product of two immigrant parents. I come from a mom who cleans houses. I come from a dad who works in construction. And, from their sacrifice, came a daughter who is a sophomore majoring in accounting at DePaul University, hoping to have her own construction company in the near future.听

And believe me, I intend to make the most of what my parents have given to me.

Today, I serve as Co-President of DePaul Women In Business, where I help bring opportunities to fellow DePaul students through inclusive networking events. It is because of the multiple networking opportunities I have helped create that I have acquired two upcoming accounting internships: One with Deloitte and the other with Andersen.

As the oldest sister in an immigrant household, I know many people who can relate to the responsibility that comes with that role. We are often shaped from birth to be diligent, hard workers who intend to go above the limits of the sky. So, of course, this is but a glimpse of what I hope to accomplish.

Currently, I work as a Financial Coach Intern for the Economic Awareness Council, where I meet with college students and provide them with financial literacy resources. I enjoy being part of a bigger community and helping wherever I can, which is why I also serve on the board of the Spanish Coalition for Housing. Through biweekly meetings, I help develop and discuss initiatives that support community services and outreach.

In addition, I serve as a Resident Advisor for the University Center, where I oversee more than one hundred residents to help ensure a safe and positive living experience. I also work as a Construction Assistant alongside my dad, where I not only handle his contracts with his English-speaking clients but also assist with basic construction and electrical work.听

I know, probably reading this, it seems like a lot.听

These accomplishments may seem impressive, and I have worked hard for every one of them, but I would be lying if I said I did all this by myself.听

Yes, I have had support from my family, my friends, and my network. But 海角乱伦社区鈥� continuous support has helped me become who I am today.听

I was introduced to 海角乱伦社区 during my junior year at Whitney Young Magnet High School. After being accepted into the program, I remember attending the many opportunities 海角乱伦社区 had to offer: Interview preps, resume reviews, networking sessions, and the one that blew my mind, Onsite.听

At Onsite, I was able to network with college recruiters and gain early access to college offers and scholarship opportunities. Experiences like these helped pave my path to becoming a member of the DePaul community.

Although I first applied to 海角乱伦社区 four years ago, I continue to feel the impact of the organization today. Through 海角乱伦社区, I became a recipient of both the Generations Scholarship and the Renaissance Scholarship, which have played a significant role in making my college education possible.听

I was also connected with Kiley Kio, my incredible mentor, who continues to support me to this day. Whether helping me refine my resume, navigate opportunities, or think through important decisions, her guidance has been extremely valuable. I truly could not be more grateful.

海角乱伦社区 provides numerous different opportunities for students like me, who may not have had anyone to guide them through the college process. While my accomplishments may have my name attached to them, they are also a reflection of the people and organizations that invested in me along the way.听

海角乱伦社区 provided me with the resources, guidance, and opportunities that continue to form my academic, professional, and personal growth.听

As I continue forward, I hope to be a role model for the young girls who, like me, grew up wanting something bigger for themselves, a future brighter than the sun. I hope they view their background as their motivation to push forward.听

Most importantly, I encourage everyone to remember their roots, their heritage, and the people who helped them get to where they are today.听

You always have to give it your all.

Siempre hay que echarle ganas.

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This National College Decision Day, we spoke to Krish Bedi, a standout Scholar from the Class of 2030, about his first year as a Scholar, his college decision for the fall, and going with the flow of what life brings his way. Krish is currently working as part of 海角乱伦社区’ Content Crew, and was recently chosen as one of the Scholars selected for the .听Read on for his reflection:

“When you鈥檙e in the right place at the right time, don鈥檛 question it, just go with the flow. It鈥檚 quite unlikely that things will pan out exactly as expected, you just gotta go with the flow. Life always seems to work its magic someway, somehow. Just go with the flow.

Just going with the flow is an amazing philosophy to lead life by. It鈥檚 what I鈥檝e tried to do during my senior year of high school, and I think it鈥檚 panned out quite well thus far. As I think back to a 10-month ago Krish, a Krish that was stiff, rigid, and closed-minded, I can鈥檛 help but be amazed at how much I鈥檝e grown since then. I still remember walking into the 海角乱伦社区 office for the first time my junior year summer. I didn鈥檛 really know what to expect, but I had no clue what a pivotal role the place I was entering would play in my development throughout the next year.

‘When you鈥檙e in the right place at the right time, don鈥檛 question it, just go with the flow.’

Fast forward to the summertime. I鈥檇 now been a Scholar for a couple of months and was starting to find my bearings. I was exhausted. I鈥檇 spent the entire morning talking to school after school during the Scholars College Fair. My brain was overloaded with brochures and the growing pressure of making the 鈥渞ight鈥� choice. It didn鈥檛 help that it was hot. I was dressed up, in a tight shirt and an even tighter tie. All I could think about was lunchtime, and the ice cream social that was promised afterwards.

Finally, while sitting with some friends I spotted the cooler. Ice cream, exactly what I needed. I walked up, opened it, and to my disappointment saw ice cream SANDWICHES. Not exactly what I had in mind. I jokingly complained to my friends, saying something about it being 鈥渇ake ice cream鈥�, when a staff member nearby overheard and laughed, pretending to be offended. She introduced herself as Morgan and we started talking, just casually at first. At some point, the conversation turned to me: what I liked to do, what schools I was interested in, what I wanted to study. I talked about probably pursuing finance, but that my true passion lay in something more creative: filmmaking. That鈥檚 when she told me she was the Associate Director of Marketing and that there was an open position for Scholars to join the team.

I applied. I got it. And since then, I鈥檝e grown so much as a creative. I鈥檝e gotten exposure into the world of advertising, a route I鈥檓 now strongly considering pursuing. I鈥檝e gotten the chance to get paid doing what I love, something I didn鈥檛 even know was feasible at my age. I鈥檝e taken the money from that job to build out my very first camera rig, and hope to use it to propel my creative career even further. The ice cream social was optional. I was just in the right place at the right time. And I went with the flow.

‘It鈥檚 quite unlikely that things will pan out exactly as expected, you just gotta go with the flow.’

I was recently sifting through old footage on my camcorder, and I stumbled upon the very first college application I submitted. Sunday, 10:16:32 AM, September 28th. I鈥檓 sat at the dining table with my mom, both of us hunched over my computer, reviewing my application to the University of Southern California for what feels like the twentieth time. We scroll through every section of CommonApp, scanning for typos like our lives depend on it. My cursor hovers over the submit button. 鈥淢uma, you do the honors鈥�, I say.

USC was my dream school. With a major that felt tailor-made for me: The Business of Cinematic Arts. Only 55 people were accepted into this specific major every year. It was a one-of-a-kind education I could get nowhere else: the chance to pursue my dreams as a filmmaker with the stability of a top-tier business degree. It was a one way ticket to working in Hollywood and felt like a direct path to everything I wanted. So when I got in, I should鈥檝e been ecstatic.

I wasn鈥檛.

Because a month earlier, I had signed a binding Early Decision agreement with Pomona College. Full tuition covered. A decision that, at the time, felt practical. And now, it felt like it had cost me the opportunity of a lifetime. For a while, I sat with that. I replayed every 鈥渨hat if鈥� I could think of. I even considered breaking the agreement. Eventually, I came back to the same idea I鈥檇 been trying to live by all year: just go with the flow.

So I did. A few weeks ago, I visited Pomona College for the first time and something shifted. It felt perfect. The people were open and easy to talk to. The campus was absolutely breathtaking. I sat in on an eight-person class called Jamaican Music Aesthetics and had the time of my life talking reggae for two hours straight. It was everything I had imagined USC to be in my head. But I wasn鈥檛 thinking of what I was missing out on by going to Pomona. I was fully present in where I was. By the end of the visit, any doubt sitting with me had disappeared. Pomona wasn鈥檛 a backup, I knew it was exactly where I was meant to be.

‘Life always seems to work its magic someway, somehow. Just go with the flow.’

I had done enough worrying about which school I鈥檇 enjoy the California sun from. Now, there were bigger fish to fry. Financial fish. Pomona College was giving a full tuition scholarship, but I still had to come up with about $20,000 for room and board. So, when I heard about ATLAS Fellows, a partner of 海角乱伦社区 (shameless plug) that gave $20,000 per year and multiple finance internships, I jumped at the opportunity. I submitted my application a week early and quickly heard back, inviting me to the second round of interviews.

As I read the email over, I got to the bottom, where the time and place of my interview would be.

Saturday, March 14th, 12:00 PM

Address: 444 W Lake St, 50th Floor

Huh. That鈥檚 funny. 444 W Lake Street. For some reason that address looked familiar to me. I remember seeing it somewhere for some event. Maybe for a school field trip? A networking event? I racked my brain trying to figure out if and when I鈥檇 been there to no avail. 鈥淥h well,鈥� I thought. 鈥淚 must be crazy鈥�.

Fast forward to the day of my interview. March 14th. I made my way over to 444 W Lake St and entered the lobby. Once again, that feeling that I鈥檇 been here before made its way back into my mind, but I chalked it up to nerves. The elevator slowly creeped up to Floor 50, and as soon as it opened, that鈥檚 when I realized. I wasn鈥檛 crazy, I had been here before. I had been to this exact floor of this exact building almost a year ago for my 海角乱伦社区 interview. About 15 minutes later, someone led me to where I鈥檇 be interviewing and I passed by the exact room I once sat in interviewing to become a Scholar. I took this crazy coincidence as a sign of good luck, and walked into that interview with my head held high.

I got it.

And now, as I write this today on May 1st, Decision Day, I know what鈥檚 next for me. To anyone considering becoming a Chicago Scholar, I cannot stress enough how much it鈥檚 changed me for the better. Opportunities I never knew existed have opened up to me. I鈥檝e made meaningful relationships with mentors and peers alike. I鈥檝e learned and grown as a person. My senior year didn鈥檛 go how I expected it to. There were moments that challenged me, frustrated me, and forced me to let go of things I thought were set in stone. And I know that won鈥檛 change. There will be hard days this summer at my internship. There will be moments at Pomona where I feel out of place. There will be uncertainty as I try to figure out what I want from my career. But through it all, I鈥檒l always remember that I鈥檓 a Chicago Scholar. And I鈥檒l always remember to go with the flow.”

The post Just Go With The Flow – A Decision Day Reflection by Krish Bedi, CS Class of 2030 appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

Through our longstanding partnership with , we鈥檝e worked to connect students to the the foundation’s Renaissance Scholars Program (RSP), created in听2005. RSP focuses on providing renewable college scholarships to talented first-generation students with significant financial need.

Check out a reflection from Fatma Dia, a freshman at the , and Class of 2029 Scholar, who was a recipient of the Renaissance Scholarship: 听

“Hello, beautiful people. My name is Fatma Dia. I am an undergraduate freshman at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I major in Neuroscience on the Pre-med track. Today, I have the opportunity to speak about my journey in college as a Renaissance Scholarship Recipient. As a Senegalese first-gen scholar, I understand how hard the financial part of college is and that is why I am so grateful for the Renaissance Scholarship, along with the support of 海角乱伦社区, it has significantly eased that burden and allowed me to focus more fully on my academic and personal growth.

College has been an unforgettable journey so far鈥攐ne filled with self-discovery, new experiences, and challenges. Having financial support has made it possible for me to pursue these opportunities without constant stress. As a Chicago Scholar, I encourage you all to apply to all of the scholarships that you qualify for because you never know what can happen. I am incredibly grateful to Renaissance and 海角乱伦社区 for investing in my future and supporting me every step of the way.

I wish you all good luck on your application and I’m rooting for you :)”

Interested in applying to for the Renaissance Scholars Program? Applications are due May 1st!

The post “I can focus more fully on my academic and personal growth”: Renaissance Scholar Recipient Reflection appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

We spoke to one of our standout Scholars from the Class of 2029, Katherine Ramirez, about her experience as a Scholar, her journey through her senior year of high school and into her first year of college, and what she’s learned so far. Katherine served as a Scholar Ambassador, a REACH Advisor, and is currently working as part of 海角乱伦社区’ Content Crew. She’s in her first year at working towards her Bachelors of Fine Arts in Film and Television with a Production Concentration, and is working as an Accelerated Film Trainee with Fresh Films DT. Read on for her reflection:

As my first year of college closes out, I find myself reminiscing about my senior year of high school. Although I was weirdly more productive with 7-hour school days and extracurriculars galore, I can鈥檛 help but feel a bit accomplished in my current educational journey. In hindsight, I don鈥檛 know how past-Katherine was able to evade procrastination for so long (it鈥檚 probably the phone). But I鈥檝e changed a lot as a student and as an individual (aside from the all-too familiar canon event of becoming a night owl). Being a Chicago Scholar played a major role in my growth.

Firstly, now that the stress of extra-early applications and creative portfolios is done, I can say I鈥檝e gotten into many of my dream schools. I attend DePaul University for film school, and I remember being accepted during the Onsite College and Leadership Forum. The DePaul representative told me he attended Lane Tech for high school (my school鈥檚 rival) as he handed me the scholarship and admission certificate. Being a proud Dolphin from Whitney Young, I was naturally a bit skeptical of his offer. Of course, he assured me that we were in this college game together.

Even though it took me a while to finally decide on DePaul, I鈥檓 very appreciative of the kind representative. All my interviewers were so welcoming that day. Onsite also afforded me the chance to interview with reps from University of Southern California, and Northwestern (I got into both!). Making my college decision was one of the most grueling decisions of my life 鈥� and my life is just getting started. But all鈥檚 well that ends well; it鈥檚 important to trust yourself to make the decision best for you. To Scholars everywhere, I want to give you this tidbit of inspiration: look back, a year ago, a month ago, or even a day ago, and see how far you鈥檝e come. (And to think, a year ago, I was so worried about the future).

Next, I stepped up in my final year of high school and gave guidance to the Class of 2030. Much of my time as an underclassman was spent looking up to the legend-like seniors at my high school. I remember my junior year鈥檚 Scholar Ambassador; she encouraged me to apply to 海角乱伦社区, and actively checked in on me, wanting to know if I鈥檇 gotten into the program. It was that support that I wanted to reciprocate to the juniors during my senior year. For this reason, I applied to be a Scholar Ambassador too. I strived to be that support system for fellow students in need.

So, I bothered the juniors in my life, harped on about the perks of being a Chicago Scholar, and set up an informational table at my school鈥檚 college fair (don鈥檛 worry, it had a bunch of free swag; I have morals). I feel like part of growing up is accepting the duty and responsibility of uplifting others. I had so much assistance throughout the college application process; and in a sense, this was returning the favor.

Lastly, 海角乱伦社区 has given me access to so many incredible opportunities. I got to share my experience as a Chicago Scholar with Big Shoulders Stories (twice). Later, a group of scholars, faculty, and CEO Jeffrey Beckham attended a Blackhawks game to highlight the organization鈥檚 initiatives. We got to sit in the Chicago Sports Network Studio at the United Center, meet reporters and crew, and see behind the scenes of game-day broadcasts. At New Scholar Orientation, I learned about REACH Pathways and got a contract job helping with the development of the EdTech startup. And, of course, I love helping with the media team! I genuinely love 海角乱伦社区, so it鈥檚 been fun being a part of the Content Crew and getting to share what makes the program so awesome!

In retrospect, I鈥檝e come a long way. Through 海角乱伦社区, I was able to gain confidence while applying to colleges, build new connections, mentor my peers, and have fun experiences. And, as a very busy, sluggish, yet hopeful college student, I admit that it鈥檚 difficult to notice your achievements in real time. Just remember that it takes a community of supporters, work, time, and a whole lot of believing in yourself to matriculate. Growth is bound to happen; hopefully you take the time to reflect on your progress and celebrate it!

The post Looking Back On My Time As A Year One Scholar – A Reflection by Katherine Ramirez, CS Class of 2029 appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

We spoke with Amy Galibois, Director of Scholar Supports & Scholarships, and Alexis Burr, Associate Director of Leadership Development & Engagement about what Women’s History Month means to them, and their hopes for future generations of women. Read on to hear their responses:

The post “I think about becoming the woman my younger self would be proud to see”: Celebrating Women’s History Month at 海角乱伦社区 appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

At first glance, the 海角乱伦社区 Mentor Program might look like just another college access support opportunity. But what really sets it apart is the role our mentors play in helping shape the next generation of leaders in Chicago.

Inspired to join our mentor program? 听

The post What Sets Our Mentorship Program Apart: Thoughts From Our Managing Director of College Success appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

Through our longstanding partnership with听,听we鈥檝e听distributed eight Invenergy scholarships to students attending a four-year college or university who are passionate about pursuing a career in听clean听energy, in addition to opening the doors to internship opportunities for seven students.听听

Check out the reflection from Zandie Lawson, a senior at听听and Class of 2026 Scholar, who was听a听recipient of the听Invenergy Scholarship:听听

“Receiving the Invenergy Scholarship has been a major milestone in my journey at Denison University, providing more than just financial relief it has offered the peace of mind that comes with being truly supported. Knowing that Invenergy invests in students dedicated to environmental stewardship has听validated听my passion for sustainability and empowered me to dream bigger. This security has been the foundation upon which听I鈥檝e听built my college experience, allowing me to move past the stress of financial barriers and fully commit myself to the leadership and academic roles that define who I am today.听

Because of this support,听I鈥檝e听had the capacity to dive deep into my community and my studies. Since my听freshman听year, I have been incredibly involved, eventually rising to become the President of the African Caribbean Student Association, a Senior Docent and Interviewer for the office of admissions, and a Fellow for the Environmental Studies department.听Beyond my professional and environmental pursuits, the scholarship has granted me the “luxury” of creative freedom; I鈥檝e been able to pursue a minor in dance and perform with the Denison Dance Company over the course of my time at Denison.听听

My academic journey as a double major in Politics & Public Affairs and Environmental Studies has been equally fueled by this support. As a pre-law student, I am dedicated to pursuing a career in environmental and international law, a goal that was solidified during my time studying abroad in South Africa and Namibia. There, I had the invaluable opportunity to study social and environmental change firsthand while conducting research on green energy. I feel incredibly lucky to have听matched with听an organization like Invenergy that aligns so perfectly with my professional goals and my personal passion for protecting our global environment. This balance of environmental advocacy, campus leadership, and artistic expression would not have been possible without Invenergy鈥檚 belief in my potential.”听

The post “This scholarship has granted me the luxury of creative freedom”: 2025 Invenergy Scholarship Recipient Reflection appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

We asked Class of 2030 Scholars why they believe a degree is worth it 鈥� see their responses below.

鈥淕etting a 4-year degree is important to me because it鈥檚 my ticket to build the best version of myself. My degree will provide me with the skills and experience I need to grow, while giving me the ability to invest my degree back into my community.鈥� 鈥� Skyeshell Blake

鈥淚 want to get a 4-year degree to continue the legacy of excellence that I have been raised in. Growing up around successful black women who defeated all odds has only pushed me further, and going to college is my opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge to uplift my community just as they uplifted me.鈥� 鈥� Indigo Gray

鈥淕etting a bachelor鈥檚 degree is essential to me because of all the opportunities that would permit me to advance in my career path. In the electrical engineering field, I want to have knowledge and experience with hardware and software properties to create astounding devices for future generations in the world. With that vision in mind, I believe that I can become the successful person I aspire to be one day.鈥� 鈥� Janeen Scott

鈥淕etting a four-year degree is incredibly important to me because it represents the transition into the next phase of my journey toward medical school. I aspire to become a medical doctor, specifically a neurologist, and earning a bachelor鈥檚 degree is one of the essential steps I need to take to make this goal a reality. In addition, as a first-generation immigrant student, completing my degree would be a dream come true for both me and my family.鈥� 鈥� Ayomide Olatunji

鈥淚n a world that is steadily declining, having a bachelor’s degree would help deepen my effect on stopping it. Even when everything seems to be for naught, education and the wish to create change is supported when and after obtaining a four-year degree.鈥澨�� Naphtali Davis

鈥淕etting a four-year degree is important to me because I鈥檒l be able to raise the bar. I will prove to not only others, but to myself that I am beyond capable. It will reveal that drive, dedication, and determination come at a good price.鈥� 鈥� Wyneisha Boyd

鈥淎 four-year degree is important for me because it will help prepare me for my future job. It will also help me secure a pretty good paycheck to be able to get paid well. Being a first gen also helps motivate me to attend college to pursue a four-year degree and be on track to get an MBA.鈥� 鈥� Michael Gomez-Hernandez

鈥淭he reason that getting a four-year degree is important to me is because it effects your ability through life. If I have a degree on a topic I care about, then people will take me seriously when I engage with that topic.鈥� 鈥� Geovonni Green

听

The post “I’ll be able to raise the bar”: Class of 2030 Scholars share why a college degree is worth the cost appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

Au Shawna Jelks, one of our full-time College Counselors at 海角乱伦社区 and a graduate of , brings her own experience as a Scholar Alum to every interaction guiding younger Scholars in their college application process, and as they grow into the leaders of tomorrow. We spoke to her about what it means to be working with Scholars as an Alum, what her experience was like as a Scholar, and what she wishes people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the City of Chicago. Read on for her responses:

What is your current role at 海角乱伦社区?听

“My role as a College Counselor is to provide support and guidance to some of the brightest leaders of Chicago through tailored curriculum centered around the college application and navigation process, and being part of a team that prepares scholars to interview with their top college and university choices at our Onsite College and Leadership Forum held in October.”

What brought you back to 海角乱伦社区 to serve on the staff?听

“Divine timing and opportunity allowed me to now be able to give back to Scholars whose shoes I was once in, but now as a College Counselor.”

As a CS team member, what does it mean to you to be shaping the future of the organization?

“Being a CS team member means that I can continue to contribute to serving high achieving and performing first generation, minoritized, under resourced, and underrepresented students all across the city of Chicago who are more than capable and deserving of the tools and resources to excel and thrive in higher education to allow them the best of opportunities to be themselves and showcase why they are truly are Chicago brightest, just as what has been provided to me鈥攐nce a scholar always a scholar.”

What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an Alumni and current staff member?

“I constantly find myself in an empowering oscillating position in being a lifetime scholar and now staff member being able to be in a position to provide current scholars knowledge and confidence in who they are as the next generation of the brightest leaders of Chicago. From the lenses that I have from my own scholar experience, staff member, and previous admissions work which is a multifaceted encouraging space that I am glad to be able to share with my scholars, especially on the days circumstances may not be as bright, but showing scholars in our day to day interactions they have support and compassion within me from first handedly being a part of the Class of 2017. It is truly an amazing seat to be in, to be able to speak and lead my scholars through the impact 海角乱伦社区 has had on me, and hopefully, give my scholars an experience similar to my own, where they are inclined to stay connected and involved in 海角乱伦社区 beyond year one.”

How has your view of 海角乱伦社区 changed in your current role with the organization?

“I am still a newer team member in my role, so I am getting to see some aspects of the business side of the organization that I would not be a witness to otherwise. What I can say from the continued effort of our entire Dream Team to lead and model our mission and vision to our most deserving scholars, which deepens my own gratitude toward the organization for the work we collectively put in together so that our scholars have access to just as great opportunities as their counterparts.”

What was听your听experience like as a Scholar?听听

“From my class and the all-scholar events held throughout the entire year to allow us scholars to constantly reconnect, to the essay and application workshops, on back to my Onsite experience all things have been valuable and vividly remembered. Because of Chicago Scholar鈥檚 I even met one of my best friends, so I am forever grateful for the year-round events, workshops, student panels, and my mentors Martrice and Nicole who I am still in touch with to this very day.”

What advice do you have for current Scholars?听

“We cannot help what we do not know, but that is why it is important to equally show up in spaces that are unfamiliar to take the initiative to possibly expose ourselves to knowledge, opportunities, and experiences, even if the face of global adversity and personal trying times. It is important for us as scholars, for you, to show up and show out in familiar and unfamiliar spaces to be able to become better self-advocates because if we do not advocate for ourselves, who will?!”

What do you wish people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the city of Chicago?听

“海角乱伦社区 is an organization that is one of a kind. We truly do impactful work from continuing to develop fruitful partnerships, recruit talented professionals to come aboard as mentors and volunteers, and constantly re-evaluate and rework our plan as an organization and counseling curriculum to be mindful of what our scholars currently need in our counseling sessions and expand to help more students across the city of Chicago in the years to come.”

Is there a piece of professional advice you would like听to听give听your听fellow听Alumni?听 听

“Advice that I find vital to give fellow alumni, especially the classes of 2021 and beyond is chase your dreams do not run from them because you cannot outrun your destiny. The road will to success will not be easy, but taking on each part of your journey as a steppingstone to build toward what you ultimately desire will be so worth it and will save you a lot of time from having to work backwards, in the long run.”

Meet more of our incredible Scholar Alumni here!

The post We’re In Chicago: Au Shawna Jelks appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

Download the report here to see stories and successes from the last three years.

The post FY22-25 Report appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

MJ Jones, the Associate of Scholar Experience at 海角乱伦社区 and a graduate of , brings her own experience as a Scholar to every day, as she plans year-one Scholar programming, managing Scholar leadership development groups, and much more. We spoke to her about what it means to be working with Scholars as an Alum, what her experience was like as a Scholar, and what she wishes people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the City of Chicago. Read on for her responses:

What is your current role at 海角乱伦社区?听

“My current role at 海角乱伦社区 is Associate of Scholar Experience. My responsibilities for this position include handling the logistics for our year one programming, helping facilitate our workshops, growth labs, as well as optional events, co-leading our leadership development groups, and assisting with enrollment and orientation.”

What brought you back to 海角乱伦社区 to serve on the staff?听

“海角乱伦社区 helped me truly understand the college application process and how to be successful following graduation. The organization provided me with a support system that I did not have in my home life. Without 海角乱伦社区, I wouldn鈥檛 have realized my full potential in my post-secondary education. I came back to CS because I wanted to give back to the community that gave me so much when I was in high school and college. I also enjoy seeing the potential of the next generation of scholars as well as their success in and out of the program.”

As a CS team member, what does it mean to you to be shaping the future of the organization?

“Being a part of shaping the future of our organization means the world to me. My ability to help cultivate the evolution of CS is so rewarding and allows me to see how our work impacts students as well as their families directly. As a non-profit that serves the community, it is important to constantly improve and maneuver through the current state of the world. Working with CS allows me to be at the forefront of that change.”

What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an Alumni and current staff member?

“Interacting with fellow staff is enlightening. Learning the ins and outs of how the organization operates has brought a new meaning to the work that so deeply impacted me as a scholar. Working with the current scholars as an alum gives me so much hope for the future of Chicago and the world. 海角乱伦社区 truly attracts some of the most talented and inspiring students. Seeing these scholars develop their leadership skills while preparing for college is so nostalgic and exhilarating at the same time.”

How has your view of 海角乱伦社区 changed in your current role with the organization?

“I was always very active as a high school scholar. I attended all the workshops and optional programming, received two acceptances at Onsite, and maintained relationships with my cohort members to this day. Now being a staff member, seeing the work, dedication and planning that these events take has been eye-opening. It makes me more appreciative of those who were staff members when I was a scholar. This also makes me want to work harder for our current scholars the way that staff members before me have done.”

What was听your听experience like as a Scholar?听听

“I had the best time being a Scholar. Interacting with students from all over the city, receiving advice from mentors, and being able to relate to other scholars from different classes was the best part of my experience. Being a Scholar allowed me to get into 9 of the 12 schools I applied for as well as get a full ride to University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I would not have been able to accomplish that without the support I received from the organization.”

What advice do you have for current Scholars?听

“The best advice I can give to current Scholars is to take advantage of everything the program has to offer. You get what you give to 海角乱伦社区. Communication and transparency are the top priorities when it comes to staff/volunteers showing up for you in the best way. Everyone at 海角乱伦社区 wants to see you succeed, however success may look for you. Once you realize the support system you have access to through the organization, anything is achievable.”

What do you wish people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the city of Chicago?听

“I wish that more people knew how much 海角乱伦社区 impacts the students that we serve. Showing up for our scholars is showing up for the future of our city and local communities. A lot of our scholars, like me, do not have a strong support system that can guide them through the process of post-secondary education and career development. Organizations like 海角乱伦社区 are the life blood of continuing education beyond high school.”

Is there a piece of professional advice you would like听to听give听your听fellow听Alumni?听 听

“Advice for fellow alumni would be if you can show up, show up. Even if it鈥檚 in a small way, it makes all the difference. Give to the communities and organizations and people that gave so much to you. You can and do make a difference in the lives of others. Continue to represent 海角乱伦社区 in all that you do and let yourself appreciate the success you have made thus far. It is no small feat.”

Meet more of our incredible Scholar Alumni here!

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Brendan Aleman, the Manager of Partnerships at 海角乱伦社区 and a graduate of , has made tremendous strides in building connections with the greater Chicago community while representing and advocating for our Scholars and Alumni. We spoke to him about what it means to be working with Scholars as an Alum, what his experience was like as a Scholar, and what he wishes people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the City of Chicago. Read on for his responses:

What is your current role at 海角乱伦社区?听

“I’m the Manager of Partnerships at 海角乱伦社区. I build and manage relationships with colleges, universities, corporations, and community based organizations to create meaningful opportunities for our Scholars. My role focuses on expanding access to higher education and career pathways by cultivating partnerships that align with our mission.”

What brought you back to 海角乱伦社区 to serve on the staff?听

“As a public servant, I was searching for my next opportunity to serve my community while growing as a young professional. Thus, I decided to come back to 海角乱伦社区 to help directly impact the lives of young people from Chicago.”

As a CS team member, what does it mean to you to be shaping the future of the organization?

“To me, shaping the future of 海角乱伦社区 means continuing the legacy of access and opportunity that the organization has always stood for, while also building new pathways for Scholars to thrive in college and beyond. It means being intentional about the partnerships we create, making sure they reflect the needs of our Scholars and the communities they come from.”

What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an Alumni and current staff member?

“It’s a full circle experience. I see myself in many of the Scholars I interact with, which motivates me to provide them with the guidance, encouragement, and opportunities I once received. It is both humbling and inspiring to serve as a bridge between my experience as a Scholar and the future that current students are building for themselves.”

How has your view of 海角乱伦社区 changed in your current role with the organization?

“As a Scholar, I mainly saw 海角乱伦社区 through the lens of college access and mentorship. Now, as a staff member, I see the depth of the work that happens behind the scenes. The level of commitment, strategy, and collaboration that goes into building resources for Scholars and alumni is something I deeply admire and am proud to be a part of.”

What was听your听experience like as a Scholar?听听

“I was a member of the 2021 class. My experience as a Scholar was transformative. It gave me the tools, the network, and the confidence to pursue opportunities I may not have thought were possible. Onsite in particular was a life changing experience, as it gave me access to institutions and people who helped shape my academic journey.”

What advice do you have for current Scholars?听

“Take full advantage of every resource, connection, and opportunity that comes your way. Do not be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, or put yourself out there. The more proactive you are, the more you will gain from this experience.”

What do you wish people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the city of Chicago?听

“I wish more people knew how much talent and resilience exists within 海角乱伦社区 and the city itself. There is often a single narrative told about Chicago, but our Scholars prove every day that the city is full of bright, driven, and community focused young leaders who are shaping the future.”

Is there a piece of professional advice you would like听to听give听your听fellow听Alumni?听 听

“Never underestimate the power of your network. Stay connected, not just for opportunities but also for community and support. Many of us have walked similar paths, and there is value in sharing knowledge and lifting each other up as we continue to grow in our careers.”

Meet more of our incredible Scholar Alumni here!

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I came back to 海角乱伦社区 because it is an organization that genuinely cares for and cultivates a positive, less stressful college process for first-generation and low-income students. 海角乱伦社区 played a huge role in my transition from high school to college, and I can鈥檛 help but want to give back. In today鈥檚 world, the college application process can feel like a maze, with new hurdles popping up at every turn. I saw it firsthand when my younger sister applied last year, despite my guidance, it was still overwhelming. I remembered how 海角乱伦社区 alleviated much of the stress and confusion for me when I was applying, and I wanted to do the same for the next generation of college students.

As a Mentor with听CS, what does it mean听to听you听to听be shaping the future of the organization?听

听Returning as a mentor has been an amazing experience. Since my time as a Scholar, I鈥檝e watched 海角乱伦社区 grow with innovative programs and resources that help students even more than before. It feels like a full-circle moment being able to pass on the tools, mindset, and confidence that 海角乱伦社区 gave me, and seeing those same sparks ignite in the next generation. I also felt this was the perfect time to join as a mentor and help shape the future of this organization because CS is partnering with a wide range of professional organizations to expose Scholars to different career paths. As a PhD candidate in Integrated Biomedical Science, I believe it鈥檚 important to show Scholars that they can go far in their educational journey. Even though we鈥檙e first-generation and low-income, the possibilities for our future careers are truly endless.

What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an听Alumni听and a Mentor?听

I love connecting with current Scholars. As an alumna, I believe my presence gives them an added sense of comfort and reassurance, knowing I was once in their shoes. They can see firsthand that the resources and opportunities provided by 海角乱伦社区 make a lasting difference鈥攏ot only during their undergraduate years, but throughout their lives. Once a CS Scholar, always a CS Scholar.听

How has听your听view of 海角乱伦社区 changed in听your听capacity as a Mentor?听

My role as a mentor has deepened my appreciation and respect for the hard work and dedication of the 海角乱伦社区 staff and team. The organization is a dynamic, collaborative network that constantly strives to create opportunities and make the college process smoother and more accessible for students across the Chicagoland area.

What was听your听experience like as a Scholar?听听

As a first-generation college student, I entered the process with little knowledge of what to expect or how to navigate it. 海角乱伦社区 provided me with both the blueprint and a supportive community I could turn to for guidance at any step. Because of them, I applied to over 20 schools, ultimately choosing Denison University, a Platinum Partner at the time. My 海角乱伦社区 community became my family away from home. That foundation made my leap from Chicago to an out-of-state campus not only possible but successful.

What advice do you have for current Scholars?听

Be a sponge and absorb as much information as you can, and learn from everyone you meet. Even if a situation doesn鈥檛 seem relevant now, it may become valuable in the future. The most successful people are lifelong learners.

What do you wish people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the city of Chicago?听

海角乱伦社区, like the city itself, is a vibrant, interconnected family from diverse backgrounds, speaking different languages, and pursuing a wide range of passions that is woven together into a network that鈥檚 always within reach. It鈥檚 the kind of community where you鈥檙e only one phone call away from finding the exact person who can help you. And just like Chicago, when life gets tough, your Scholars family shows up for you every single time.

Is there a piece of professional advice you would like听to听give听your听fellow听Alumni?听 听

Always maintain connections with past employers, teachers, and mentors because you never know when a conversation from years ago might open the door to your future. Keep your resume and LinkedIn profile updated at all times; you never know who鈥檚 watching or what opportunities might come your way simply because you鈥檝e communicated your goals, experiences, and achievements effectively.听

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As a first-gen student, 海角乱伦社区 played a huge role in helping me navigate my college journey, but what really brought me back was the people. I never forgot how it felt to be seen and supported here, and now I want to be that for the next generation. Coming back as a mentor wasn鈥檛 just about staying involved- it felt like the most natural way to give back. I remember how impactful it was to have someone in my corner during such a transformative time, and I wanted to be that for someone else.听

In the ways you interact with CS, what does it mean to you to be shaping the future of the organization?

To me, shaping the future of 海角乱伦社区 means making space for stories like mine. It鈥檚 about creating room for Scholars to feel seen, heard, and understood, no matter where they come from. As someone who鈥檚 lived the full Scholar journey and is now supporting the next generation, I feel honored to be part of a future where first-gen, underrepresented students feel not only welcomed but empowered to lead, dream, and define success on their own terms.听

What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an Alumni?

It鈥檚 honestly surreal. I see so much of my younger self in them- the uncertainty, the ambition, the big dreams- and it reminds me why this work matters. I feel lucky to be a bridge between who I was then and who I鈥檝e become now. It鈥檚 a full-circle moment every time, and being part of someone else鈥檚 journey now feels incredibly meaningful.听

How has your view of 海角乱伦社区 changed in your current role with the organization?

As a Scholar, I saw 海角乱伦社区 as a support system during the college process. Now, I see how that support truly stretches across years and life stages. Being a mentor has reminded me how this program doesn鈥檛 just get you into college- it changes how you see yourself in the world. It鈥檚 expanded my appreciation for the long-term impact 海角乱伦社区 has in shaping lives, communities, and futures.听听

What was your experience like as a Scholar?

My Scholar experience was transformative. I went from a high school student who didn鈥檛 even know what FAFSA was to someone confidently navigating college applications, interviews, and scholarship deadlines. My mentor made a huge difference. Just having someone in my corner who got it and believed in me made everything feel less overwhelming. I built friendships, found community, and started to believe in the idea that I could truly belong in the spaces I once felt intimidated by.听

What advice do you have for current Scholars?

Don鈥檛 be afraid to take up space. Ask the question. Apply for the opportunity. Tell your story. You鈥檙e not behind; you鈥檙e building. And the right people will always meet you where you are. You don鈥檛 need to have everything figured out right away. Let yourself grow into who you鈥檙e meant to be, step by step.听听

What do you wish people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the city of Chicago?

海角乱伦社区 is more than a college access program. It鈥檚 a community that believes in the long-term growth of young people. And the city of Chicago has so much talent, culture, and future leaders, especially from neighborhoods that don鈥檛 always get the spotlight. Programs like CS help make sure that brilliance doesn鈥檛 go unnoticed.听

Is there a piece of professional advice you would like to give your fellow Alumni?

Be open to redefining what success means to you. It鈥檚 okay if your goals shift or your dreams evolve. Careers aren鈥檛 always linear. Mine definitely hasn鈥檛 been. Keep choosing growth over perfection.听

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Coming back to 海角乱伦社区 felt like a calling. As a Class of 2016 Scholar, I know firsthand how much the program shaped not just my college experience but my life.听

I grew up in Little Village, raised by immigrant parents, and deeply inspired by my grandfather, who came to this country as a Bracero. From a young age, I learned the value of hard work, resilience, and community. Before CS, I didn鈥檛 have many mentors who looked like me or truly understood where I came from. That changed when I joined the program. It was the first time I saw people who reflected my story and showed me what was possible.听

That鈥檚 why I came back, to be that person for someone else. To show Scholars they belong, that their stories matter, and that they鈥檙e capable of more than they sometimes believe. I want to be the mirror I needed at their age: someone who sees them, supports them, and reminds them they鈥檙e not alone.听

As a Mentor with CS, what does it mean to you to be shaping the future of the organization?听

It means a lot. Mentorship has been a big part of my journey, and it still is. I have mentors who continue to guide and support me, and that鈥檚 something I try to pass on.听As a second-grade teacher and Aspire Fellow working toward school leadership, I鈥檓 committed to educational equity. I want young people, especially students of color, to have mentors and educators who reflect their identities and believe in their brilliance.听

Being a CS Mentor lets me live that every day. I get to show up for Scholars the way others have shown up for me. Right now, I鈥檓 applying to doctoral programs while my mentees are applying to college, and I hope that this parallel reminds them that growth never stops and that leadership can look like us. We鈥檙e learning and evolving together, and that鈥檚 what makes this work so meaningful.听

What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an Alumni and a Mentor?听

Honestly, it鈥檚 a full-circle moment. We come from the same place 鈥� first-gen, raised in Chicago, pushing toward something bigger. I see myself in them: the drive, the questions, the hope. I remember feeling all of that.听They have so much potential, and I just want them to see that in themselves. If I can be someone who reminds them they鈥檙e not alone, that they belong, and that their story matters, then I鈥檓 doing something right. I didn鈥檛 always have that kind of support, so being able to offer it now means a lot. It鈥檚 even more meaningful knowing I鈥檓 still on my own path of growth, right alongside them.听

How has your view of 海角乱伦社区 changed in your capacity as a Mentor?听

I always knew being a Scholar was special. As a student, I saw how much CS poured into me. But now, as a Mentor, I see the full scope, how intentional the organization is about building long-term change.听It鈥檚 not just about getting students to college; it鈥檚 about identity, leadership, and systemic equity. 海角乱伦社区 is helping first-gen students thrive and return as leaders who invest in their communities. It鈥檚 more than a program, it鈥檚 a movement rooted in purpose and real impact. I鈥檓 proud to be part of it.听

What was your experience like as a Scholar?听

Unforgettable. I鈥檒l never forget the energy of Onsite 鈥� the nerves, the excitement, the moment I got my first college acceptance. Having Lupe Fiasco as the keynote speaker made it even more powerful. His words stuck with me and reminded me to stay grounded and keep pushing.听What made it even more special was my cohort, students from my neighborhood, even though we went to different schools. We became friends, leaned on each other, and grew together. That day gave me confidence, clarity, and community, things I still carry with me.听

What advice do you have for current Scholars?听

Take full advantage of everything CS offers. Don鈥檛 underestimate the power of your story, your voice, and your background. Advocate for yourself. Ask for help. Build your village, people who believe in you and push you forward.听You don鈥檛 need to have it all figured out right away. Your path is your own. And remember, success isn鈥檛 about being perfect; it鈥檚 about showing up, again and again.听

What do you wish people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the city of Chicago?听

海角乱伦社区 is about more than college access; it鈥檚 about transformation. It鈥檚 about helping students unlock their potential, lead with purpose, and come back to uplift others.听And Chicago? It鈥檚 beautiful and complex, especially neighborhoods like Little Village. There鈥檚 so much heart, hustle, and talent. When young people are empowered to lead, the whole city benefits. CS helps make that happen.听

Is there a piece of professional advice you would like to give your fellow Alumni?
Keep learning, stay connected to your 鈥渨hy,鈥� and surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. And remember, just because you鈥檝e moved forward doesn鈥檛 mean you have to move alone. Community still matters, maybe now more than ever!听

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Having gone through the 海角乱伦社区 program myself in high school, I understand firsthand how beneficial the CS curriculum, staff, and organization can be for students. During my time as a scholar, I had resources that simply were not available to me either at my high school or in my personal life, such as high-quality counselors and mentors who provided me with invaluable advice and guidance that I carry to this day. I would not be in the position that I am, both personally and professionally, without the 海角乱伦社区 organization. I count myself as extremely lucky to have had the opportunity to have such an overwhelming amount of support behind me that I feel both honored and obligated to give back to the organization as well as the next generation of leaders coming out of Chicago. That is what brought me back to 海角乱伦社区, and that is what will continue to drive me to remain involved.听

听As a Mentor with CS, what does it mean to you to be shaping the future of the organization?听

Shaping the future of the organization is a privilege and a responsibility that I do not take lightly because the entire mission is to make an impact in the lives of our scholars. As such, I can only feel grateful that I have the opportunity to share what I鈥檝e learned over the years with both the students as well as my fellow mentors and colleagues. If we can impact at least one scholar, then every second of the mission was well spent.听

What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an Alumni and a Mentor?听

Sometimes it feels surreal because it was not that long ago that I was sitting in the very seats of our scholars. I can see myself in both the joys and struggles that the students face, and although challenges and circumstances differ person to person, we all share a vision of progressing toward a better future for both ourselves and the people around us, and I find that inspiring. It can feel weird sometimes because I still have a ton of growing to do, but giving back to the kids as mentors and alumni gives us perspective that the students do not yet have and allows us to further reflect on our own futures.听

How has your view of 海角乱伦社区 changed in your capacity as a Mentor?听

I would say that as a scholar going through the program, you鈥檙e a little narrow-sighted in the sense that you are always focused on the next step of your own journey and the actions needed to continue pushing forward on that path. But as a mentor, you start to see the bigger picture. The scope shifts to how you can cultivate a sense of community and empathy – to put yourself in the shoes of the scholars so that you can support them each in their own specific ways. So I would not say that my view of 海角乱伦社区 has changed, but rather the scope of the impact I want to make has shifted from focusing on the journey to building a community that shares in the journey together.听

What was your experience like as a Scholar?听

Although not always the easiest, I found my experience as a Chicago Scholar to be extremely beneficial in multiple ways. The first was college applications 鈥� the CS organization does a great job at helping scholars get a real head start in the application process, and I found that a lot of the hard work was done before I even started my senior year, which, in hindsight, was a major advantage. Second was counseling 鈥� this encompasses the college counseling aspect in which I really leaned on my CS counselor, who helped guide me through the entire process, which, as a first-generation college student, can feel extremely overwhelming at times. And lastly, the CS Emerge program was invaluable to me during my time in college 鈥� it provided me legitimate experience in the field I wanted to break into, and it gave me the opportunity to network with individuals that would lead to my first full-time employment role after college, which then cascaded into what I now currently do for work. Looking back on my journey from where I am now in my career, it can all be traced back to 海角乱伦社区 and the opportunities I was afforded.听

What advice do you have for current Scholars?听

The piece of advice I give every scholar is to make the most out of the 海角乱伦社区 program because what you get in return is directly correlated with how much effort you put in. The more you put into the program in terms of utilizing the writing labs, advice from mentors, college counselors, etc., the more benefits you will see come from it in terms of both your academic and future professional career.听

What do you wish people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the city of Chicago?听

I wish people truly knew how much the staff and everyone involved truly care about the kids, but also the future of this city that we all hold dear to our hearts. They say you have to 鈥渂e the change you want to see in the world.鈥� Well, that change starts at the foundation, which, at its core, is the students who will lead the future of Chicago.听

Is there a piece of professional advice you would like to give your fellow Alumni?听听

Take the risk (in whatever context that means to you). It can become too easy to settle into complacency, and sometimes, especially with first-generation students, the fear of failure can be overwhelmingly stronger than the excitement of success. There are so many more people in the world who look back on their life and say, 鈥淚 wish I had taken the risk鈥� than the other way around. Don鈥檛 live in fear of regret – life鈥檚 too short.听

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I currently serve as the Manager of Human Resources at 海角乱伦社区. My role spans the entire employee lifecycle, ranging from supporting onboarding and payroll to policy administration, benefits management, and offboarding. A typical day is split between focused administrative work in our HRIS and supporting people and culture initiatives that help shape our organizational environment.听听

What brought you back to 海角乱伦社区 to work on the staff after graduating?听

I initially applied for a fellowship role at 海角乱伦社区. I didn’t get the role; however, Jeff Beckham, who is the CEO now, informed me that the organization was hiring for an HR Associate position. I expressed interest, had an informal conversation with the team lead at the time, and then formally applied and went through the hiring process.听

Having just graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a degree in Applied Psychology, I saw Human Resources as a natural pivot. I was excited about the opportunity to contribute to a mission that had supported me鈥攈elping academically ambitious students from under-resourced communities succeed in college and beyond.听听

As a CS team member, what does it mean to you to be shaping the future of the organization?听

To me, it means playing a meaningful role in supporting the people and systems that make our mission possible. My 鈥渨hy鈥� is rooted in being a silent influencer and contributing in ways that align with my strengths to help others thrive.听听

What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an Alumni and current staff member?听

While I don鈥檛 interact with Scholars often, when I do, it feels like I鈥檓 speaking to my high school self. I enjoy offering advice, sharing things to look out for, and serving as a stepping stone for Scholars who are curious about Human Resources as a career path.听

How has your view of 海角乱伦社区 changed in your current role with the organization?听

I’ve developed an appreciation for the work that goes on behind the scenes. I’ve experienced the transition between being served as a Scholar to being on the side that is responsible for serving future scholars as an Alum and staff member. I see the hard work that goes into decisions, interactions, and the results of the work spearheaded by the whole organization. The appreciation for the work really comes from hearing directly from Scholars about how 海角乱伦社区 has helped them!听听听听听

What was your experience like as a Scholar?听

As a Scholar, I was pretty reserved, much like my cohort. We were all hardworking and eager to grow as leaders while navigating the pressures of college applications. My mentors and peers were a huge source of encouragement. Once I started college at UIC, I felt disconnected. I wasn鈥檛 living on campus, had a significant financial aid gap, and often felt alone. That changed when 海角乱伦社区 launched an initiative to check in on Scholars during college. Alicia Ferraris, who still works with CS, became my campus contact. Thanks to her, I learned about scholarships, resources that helped me close my financial gap and build confidence as a leader. Her support was a turning point in my journey!听

What advice do you have for current Scholars?听

Take everything in stride. Try things out, even if they seem hard. You won’t know what you like, don’t like, or what you’ve made of if you don’t experience things outside of your comfort zone! And know that 海角乱伦社区 is just one call, email, or visit to the office away from providing you with support.听

What do you wish people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the city of Chicago?听

About 海角乱伦社区, I wish people knew about the scholarships, resources, and internship opportunities that are available to Scholars to take advantage of! About Chicago itself, I wish people knew that the city is big, but the connections are tight-knit. Take your reputation seriously because people know people, and it only takes one to two key people to sing your praises, and you shine.听

Is there a piece of professional advice you would like to give your fellow Alumni?听听

Something that I struggle with is asking for help and imposter syndrome. The advice I’d give is to not wait until you鈥檙e overwhelmed to ask for help. Recognizing when to lean on others is a strength, not a weakness. Collaboration and vulnerability often open doors to growth, innovation, and stronger relationships!听

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I returned to 海角乱伦社区 because I wanted to give back to an organization that has poured so much into me throughout my collegiate journey. From mentorship and professional development to a strong sense of community, 海角乱伦社区 played a pivotal role in shaping my academic and personal growth. Coming back felt like a full-circle moment, an opportunity to uplift the next generation of scholars the same way I was once uplifted.
听

As a Mentor with CS, what does it mean to you to be shaping the future of the organization?

Having a hand in shaping the future of this organization feels deeply fulfilling. It鈥檚 not just meaningful work, it鈥檚 purpose-driven. There鈥檚 something powerful about knowing that the time and energy I give back is helping to create opportunities for others, just like those that once changed my life.听

What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an Alumni and a Mentor?听

Interacting with current Scholars as both an alum and a mentor has been nothing short of powerful. It鈥檚 a full-circle experience knowing that I was once in their shoes, trying to figure everything out, and now I get to be someone they can lean on. It鈥檚 inspiring to see their drive, their questions, and their hunger to succeed. Every conversation reminds me why mentorship matters and why community is everything.听听听

How has your view of 海角乱伦社区 changed in your capacity as a Mentor?听

As a Scholar, I appreciated the support, but as a mentor, I鈥檝e gained a whole new level of respect for the mission and the people behind it. I now see the deep intentionality that goes into every piece of programming, every connection, every resource. It鈥檚 not just about getting students into college. It鈥檚 about building leaders, change-makers, and giving them a foundation that can carry them through life. It鈥檚 truly transformative work.听听听

What was your experience like as a Scholar?

When I was a Scholar, I didn鈥檛 initially build strong bonds with my peers or my mentor during that first year. It felt a little isolating at times. But even while I was away at college, one staff member from the 海角乱伦社区 team consistently showed up for me. We had quarterly check-ins, and she supported me in ways that went far beyond what was expected. She truly listened, advocated for me, and always did her best to meet my needs, big or small. Her care reminded me that I was never really alone in this journey.听

What advice do you have for current Scholars?

My advice to current Scholars is this: don鈥檛 take these moments for granted. Before you know it, they鈥檒l be memories, some sweet, some challenging, but all meaningful. Every moment holds something important, even if you can鈥檛 see it right away. Be present. Show up for yourself and for others. Lean on the people around you, that鈥檚 what they鈥檙e here for. You鈥檙e not alone in this journey. And most importantly, take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. You never know which one will change your path or unlock a door you didn鈥檛 even know existed.听

What do you wish people knew about 海角乱伦社区 and the city of Chicago?听

I wish more people knew how much brilliance exists within Chicago鈥檚 youth. 海角乱伦社区 amplifies that brilliance and shows what鈥檚 possible when young people are given access, opportunity, and belief. And Chicago itself? It鈥檚 more than headlines and stereotypes. It鈥檚 culture, resilience, creativity, and community. There鈥檚 a whole generation here ready to thrive. They just need to be seen, supported, and given the space to rise.听听听

Is there a piece of professional advice you would like to give your fellow Alumni?

To my fellow Alumni: We have a responsibility to feed the minds of the youth and pour into the next generation the way others once poured into us. Be their guiding light. Show up, speak truth, and remind them that life is so much bigger than what they can currently see. Sometimes all it takes is one voice, one moment of encouragement, to shift someone鈥檚 entire perspective. Let鈥檚 be that light.听

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Since Tim鈥檚 initial introduction, TIAA/Nuveen has supported 海角乱伦社区 through scholarships, sponsorships, and volunteering.

鈥淭IAA/Nuveen is committed to funding college and career readiness for first-generation college students in our community, so our partnership with 海角乱伦社区 is a natural fit,鈥� said Karly Ashlock, Director of Community Impact at TIAA. 鈥淲e know that attaining a college degree can unlock the potential for a lifetime of financial security. It鈥檚 been an honor for TIAA/Nuveen to walk alongside these students during such pivotal moments, and to invest in the future they鈥檙e building.鈥�

In 2025, TIAA/Nuveen sponsored the New Scholar Orientation opening session, playing a crucial role in the Class of 2030鈥檚 first impression of 海角乱伦社区. Through their sponsorship, we were able to host a virtual celebration for over 600 students and their parents. TIAA/Nuveen also sponsored pre-filled pencil pouches for every incoming Scholar, ensuring that they all had a piece of 海角乱伦社区 and TIAA/Nuveen to take into their senior year of high school.

TIAA/Nuveen鈥檚 impact extends far beyond the current class of high school Scholars. For several years, TIAA/Nuveen sponsored major components of the Onsite College and Leadership Forum experience, including the Leadership Hub, which gave community organizations and vendors the chance to offer resources to Scholars and families, and our Family Engagement programming. Through their support of Onsite alone, TIAA/Nuveen has touched over 1,000 lives.

Recently, TIAA/Nuveen supported Scholars in a new way by contributing to Scholar Dollars, funding that provides emergency funding and grants to Scholars during their college years.

鈥淭IAA/Nuveen have been such good partners to 海角乱伦社区,鈥� said Andre Hebert, managing director of partnerships at Chicago听 Scholars. 鈥淲e often see a TIAA/Nuveen representative volunteering at signature events, which is a huge help as we undertake those busy and impactful days.鈥�

鈥淭he relationships CS has with TIAA/Nuveen is one we want to highlight because it speaks to the impact of strategic partnerships that can deepen over time,鈥� said Jeff Beckham, Jr., CEO of 海角乱伦社区. 鈥淲hat started out as a scholarship opportunity led to a company investing their time, treasure, and talent to ensuring Chicago鈥檚 youth have access to pivotal college and career readiness programs. One of our primary contacts at TIAA/Nuveen is even mentoring a cohort of Scholars!鈥�

If your organization is interested in exploring a partnership with 海角乱伦社区, please contact Andre Hebert at ahebert@chicagoscholars.org.

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Dr. Fulton holds a PhD in Higher Education with a minor in African American Studies from the University of Minnesota. She brings 16 years of hands-on experience in higher education leadership to 海角乱伦社区, where she will oversee college access and college success programming. Dr. Fulton鈥檚 research and publishing focuses on the leadership experiences of students of color, relationships between Black and white women in higher education, and motherhood in higher education.

Previously, Dr. Fulton served as Assistant Dean of Students at University of St. Thomas, Associate Dean for Intercultural Student Programs and Services at Bethel College, and is the founder and principal consultant at Project 51.

In her transition to 海角乱伦社区, Dr. Fulton is leaving her position as Vice President for Student Life at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights, Illinois. Trinity Christian College is a Gold Plus Partner of 海角乱伦社区.

鈥淭he last three years at Trinity have been incredibly formative for me in my leadership journey,鈥� Dr. Fulton said. 鈥淭he shared ambitions between Trinity and 海角乱伦社区 to address higher education’s most pervasive challenges by centering student wellbeing and college success as a matter of economic justice makes for meaningful connections and a sensible transition from one organization to the next.鈥�

鈥淲e are so fortunate to have Dr. Fulton join the 海角乱伦社区 staff,鈥� said 海角乱伦社区 CEO Jeffery Beckham, Jr. 鈥淪he brings so much experience and insight into the student experience, especially the experiences of students of color. She will be an asset to our Scholars across our program.鈥�

Dr. Fulton will take her new position on August 5, 2025.

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June Career Partner Highlight:

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

Our Emerge Summer Career & Leadership Program is well under way – and we’re kicking off a series of spotlights on several of our incredible Emerge Career Partners, the companies and organizations that make our Emerge internships possible. For each, we’ll give you a special look at what called them to partner with us, tell stories of their Scholar interns – and maybe inspire you and your company to partner too!

Our June 2025 Emerge Career Partner Highlight of the Month is , an innovative and groundbreaking rehabilitation facility for children and adults, providing care for more stroke, spinal cord injury, and traumatic brain injury patients than anywhere else in the US. With their primary location in River North, the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab has partnered with 海角乱伦社区 to host several Emerge interns over the years, as well as hosting yearly Growth Labs at their dynamic downtown space. We spoke with Maya Yuen, Manager of the Robert R. McCormick Foundation Center for Hope and Equity at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab about the organization’s commitment to our Scholars.

Firstly, why did you choose to partner with 海角乱伦社区?

“We partnered with 海角乱伦社区 because their model aligns with our goal at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab to create paths to meaningful healthcare careers and to invest in the next generation of leaders.”

To continue, why听did you choose to specifically support the Emerge Program as a Career Partner and Growth Lab Host?听

“The Emerge program aligns closely with the mission of our Robert R. McCormick Foundation Center for Hope and Equity 鈥� particularly our focus on creating pathways to rewarding healthcare careers. Emerge provides us with a meaningful opportunity to support early talent, provide immersive experiences and develop future professionals who reflect the communities we serve.”

What is Radio Flyer looking to accomplish through your internship program?

“We hope to shed light on the field of rehabilitation medicine as a highly collaborative and impactful area of healthcare. Through our unique translational model of care, we aim to introduce interns to how STEM disciplines 鈥� like engineering, math, and data science 鈥� can be applied in clinical settings to directly improve patient outcomes. Our translational model bridges the gap between research and real-world application, allowing patients to benefit from innovation more quickly. Our goal is to inspire the next generation to see themselves in these careers and to understand the meaningful role they can play in advancing health equity and recovery.”

What qualities does your organization look for in potential Emerge interns?听

“We look for curiosity, compassion and a desire to make an impact. Emerge interns who are eager to learn, open to collaboration and committed to excellence thrive in our environment 鈥� where diverse perspectives not only are welcomed but essential to innovation.”

Finally, what are your hopes for the young adults of Chicago?

“We hope the young adults of Chicago know that their ideas, voices and dreams matter. We want them to feel empowered to pursue careers that bring both personal fulfillment and community impact 鈥� and to know that organizations like ours are ready to invest in their growth every step of the way.”

Inspired by The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s work with our Scholars? Head here to learn more about becoming a partner with us!

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Over the past several months, we’ve introduced you to some of our current incredible mentors, gave you a special look at what called them to take on this responsibility, and shared stories of connection with their Scholar cohorts – and maybe inspired you to become a mentor too!

Our 2025 May Mentor of the Month is Kiley Kio, who has been working with our Scholars since 2022. Read on to hear about her experience being a Mentor, and why others should consider mentoring with 海角乱伦社区!

Inspired by Kiley’s involvement? Head here to learn more about applying to be a mentor! The mentor application is closing in just a few days –

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We spoke with Angel about his experience as a Scholar so far, what he’s excited to learn with this internship experience, and why he decided to intern at 海角乱伦社区. Read on for his responses!

First, can you tell us a bit about where you’re going to school, and your career aspirations?

“Hi! I’m Angel, and I am attending Columbia College Chicago with a major in creative writing and a minor in Latin America Studies. My biggest career aspiration is to be a journalist in the entertainment industry! With that, I am preparing to have my final semester in Los Angeles in Spring 2026 as part of Columbia’s Semester in LA Program.”

What’s your experience as a Chicago Scholar been like so far?

“I can’t imagine what my academic and professional life would be like without 海角乱伦社区. I wouldn’t be able to attend Columbia and make so many incredible friends without their help. My time being an Emerge Intern helped me develop professional skills very early on and the summer I worked at Weigel Broadcasting remains one of my most cherished summers ever. It’s been nothing but wonderful experiences with 海角乱伦社区 and I’m excited to see what’s next.”

听Finally, as a Scholar yourself, what made you want to work with the 海角乱伦社区 team for this internship?

“There’s a variety of different reasons why I wanted to intern at 海角乱伦社区. The most prominent one is that I love being involved with non-profit organizations, it’s something I’ve been passionate about since high school. As someone who would like to one day create their own academic & arts program, I was drawn to being a Development Intern to gain more hands-on experience and see how a team comes together to make everything work in an organization. Furthermore, from my experiences being a Emerge intern in the past; I know the workplace will be supportive and uplifting as everyone on the Dream Team is kind.”

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Over the coming months, we’ll be introducing you to some of our current incredible mentors, giving you a special look at what called them to take on this responsibility, and sharing stories of connection with their Scholar cohorts – and maybe inspiring you to become a mentor too!

Our 2025 Mentor of the Month is Michael L Smith, who has been working with our Scholars since 2018. He grew up watching his own father work as a mentor to youth in the Woodlawn neighborhood, inspiring Michael to follow in his footsteps.

Inspired by Michael’s involvement? Head here to learn more about applying to be a mentor! The mentor application is open to support our new incoming class of 海角乱伦社区 –

The post 海角乱伦社区 2025 April Mentor of the Month appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

Over the coming months, we’ll be introducing you to some of our current incredible mentors, giving you a special look at what called them to take on this responsibility, and sharing stories of connection with their Scholar cohorts – and maybe inspiring you to become a mentor too!

Our 2025 January Mentor of the Month is Grace Rodi, the current , and a CS Mentor since 2024.

Inspired by Grace’s involvement? Head here to learn more about applying to be a mentor! The mentor application is open to support our new incoming class of 海角乱伦社区 –

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Over the coming months, we’ll be introducing you to some of our current incredible mentors, giving you a special look at what called them to take on this responsibility, and sharing stories of connection with their Scholar cohorts – and maybe inspiring you to become a mentor too!

Our 2025 February Mentor of the Month is Dannielle Scott-Duke, who is not only a 海角乱伦社区 Mentor, but also a member of our Governing Board of Directors.

Inspired by Danni’s involvement? Head here to learn more about applying to be a mentor! The mentor application is open to support our new incoming class of 海角乱伦社区 –

The post 海角乱伦社区 2025 February Mentor of the Month appeared first on 海角乱伦社区.

Over the coming months, we’ll be introducing you to some of our current incredible mentors, giving you a special look at what called them to take on this responsibility, and sharing stories of connection with their Scholar cohorts – and maybe inspiring you to become a mentor too!

Our 2025 March Mentor of the Month is Jonathan Benishay, who is a new Mentor with 海角乱伦社区, but has spent the past year building dynamic and lasting relationships with his Scholar mentees. Read on for his responses!

Inspired by Jonathan’s involvement? Head here to learn more about applying to be a mentor! The mentor application is open to support our new incoming class of 海角乱伦社区 –

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The question of access to college is one that is not unique to our time but has grown in its presence as various factors compile to make it more apparent than ever. The NYT article 鈥淔reshman Enrollment Appears to Decline for the First Time Since 2020鈥� makes note of this, highlighting how these challenges are especially true for historically underrepresented students. At Olin College of Engineering, we鈥檝e been aware of this trend and have been working to address it through direct work with CBOs like 海角乱伦社区.

As a small institution, Olin is flexible, quick-to-adapt, and able to pivot when enrollment markers are evaluated.听 What this most recent application cycle has told us specifically is that many young scholars are facing two major obstacles to enrollment that are out of their control but force their hand when deciding whether to apply to college or not.

1. 鈥�24 FAFSA Challenges

1. ROI / Promise of the Future

The first, which likely impacted low-income families most significantly, will hopefully be worked out in the coming cycle and the roadblocks that hindered folks from applying will (fingers crossed) be removed. We assume that students felt it was not wise to immediately enroll anywhere without a better grasp of their financial aid offerings and as such, stepped back momentarily or entirely. This ephemeral issue should cease to inhibit enrollment in the future, but we are keeping an eye on the developments.听 We find that clear communication about our financial aid processes can be reassuring to prospective students and their families, and our small size allows us to respond directly to questions or concerns as they arise.

The second, a more prescient trend, is students questioning the ROI, or return on investment, of higher education. And why shouldn鈥檛 they? With mounting student loans and difficult job markets, it鈥檚 a troubling scenario for those seeking a college degree. They wonder, will it all be worth it?

At Olin, we believe our project-based learning curriculum offers students peace of mind in this realm by instilling key teamwork, executive function, and leadership skills that translate immediately to the workforce. As such, a solid engineering background with these attributes at its core does not require additional degrees to be competitive in today鈥檚 job market, allowing students to put their Olin degree to use immediately upon graduation.听 Our push for outside the classroom learning opportunities like internships and research also strengthens the appeal of an Oliner鈥檚 resume to prospective employers. Unfortunately, this immediate ROI isn鈥檛 true for all academic programs or majors, thus students may feel the high price tag of a college degree isn鈥檛 worth the investment. This could foster disillusionment with higher education overall, increasingly so from those facing additional barriers to learning, resulting in the figures the NYT article addresses.

In the case of FAFSA, Olin has ensured our Financial Aid team could听听 offer our current and prospective students as much support as possible, while staying abreast of any developments from the Department of Education. In the case of FAFSA, Olin has ensured our Financial Aid team could offer our current and prospective students as much support as possible, while staying abreast of any developments from the Department of Education.

And with the second point of concern, we鈥檝e been addressing this for years through those CBO connections mentioned earlier. Information on our website or during our on-campus events is great, but connecting with those directly in the community is even better. Not only do we aim to educate more students about Olin鈥檚 offerings, but we also hope to build the toolkit of CBO counselors so they are best prepared to advise students who may otherwise be unable to find the answers on ROI they are looking for.

Collaborations like counselor information events, student visits (both on-campus and virtual), financial aid town halls, and open houses can deliver this insight in several accessible formats. These such offerings (quite standard on most campuses) help connect CBOs to their local colleges and those across the country. Higher education institutions can increase the attractiveness of these outlets or reach out and make connections directly to support prospective students in the best way they see fit. Meanwhile, we are always looking to grow engagement with those on the counseling side of college process and the students they serve.

Accordingly, we see our relationship with 海角乱伦社区 as a beneficial two-way street where we can offer insight and gain great knowledge in return. When institutions like ours collaborate and grow for the benefit of students, especially those who may not have access to inside information otherwise, we鈥檙e directly combating the concerns the NYT points out and working toward a higher education landscape that is shifting for the betterment of the next generation of learners and leaders.

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