Andrea
I feel that now that I have adventured off to college , I was given a chance to find out how strong I am as a person on my own. It has been valuable to attend college because it has helped me pin point my weaknesses so I can build on them as well as my strengths.
Scott
Out of my college experience I have found a better understanding for the meaning of hard work. I also feel that I will be well prepared and will be able to get a good job after I graduate from Illinois State University. I am also grateful for all of the friends I have made and people I have met throughout my past two years. I have made lots of good connections and have had great learning experiences. I have a new outlook on the world and feel that I can accomplish anything I put my mind to.
Megan
I picked Illinois State University on a campus visit when I saw a bridge. That was my deciding factor that helped me choose Illinois State University for pursuing a higher education. Through my college experience I have gained motivation and confidence. Everyday I go to class, I am one day closer to achieving my goals. Going to a school like Illinois State University helps inspire me to keep going when I walk through campus and I look around and see the students who are working hard just like me to make something of themselves. At Illinois State University, I was able to see the world, I have some of the best friends for life, and I am really discovering who I am and what I want from my life. Through Illinois State I am learning to achieve my goals the right way, no shortcuts and keeping my integrity. I haven't reconsidered my decision to attend Illinois State University ever, and I am truly happy here. Once I graduate from Illinois State University, I am not afraid of what is going to happen because I know that with everything I learned from attending school here that I will be alright.
Rhonda
I just finished my 1st semester at a community college after being out of school for 15 years and I have met many new people who are looking to change careers just like me. I have also gain confidence and self esteem I finished with a 3.5 GPA my first semester when at times I was so scared I wouldn't make it. I can't wait for spring semester to start I'm eager to learn more and sharpen the skills I already have.
Emily
“I’m living in Brazil next year.”Those eight, simple syllables uttered from my vocal instructor inspired me; I wanted to experience another country, I wanted to learn about new subjects, I wanted to go places. Now, I did not end up in Brazil, and I do not know if I will ever visit Tokyo or see the Indian Ocean. I am, however, enrolled in college, and college is the potential launching pad to all dreams. I believe of all things college has offered, exposure to opportunities has been my greatest experience. Not only are there professional opportunities, but also the personal learning opportunities are incomparable. I can see the world from a new perspective—a perspective where my aspirations are linked to my determination to succeed.Without college, my dreams had strict limits. I can see now something I could not when my vocal instructor told me about Brazil: similar experiences are possible for me.
Nick
Since graduating from high school and starting my college education in August 2010, I soon came to realize how college-life allows you more independence and responsibility. You learn quickly how and when to register for classes, where your classes are held and getting up in time for classes. But I have learned how to manage my time wisely with my studies and enjoying the "college-life" in meeting new friends and participating in organizations. Upon my graduation from ISU I plan to continue my education by applying for medical school. My career goal is becoming a physician and with the expense of college and med school ahead of me, this scholarship will greatly help out.
Sara
My college experience has taught me how to take control of my life and to plan for my future. I have learned how to take responsibilty for myself through attending regular classes and working hard to earn a 3.8 GPA. Through the various classes I've taken I found that I would like to major in Journalism. This decision has provided me with goals to work toward through trying to successfully persue this career. I would like to reach out to others by providing insight into new topics and events through this career. Attending college brought me to self awareness and to self assertion through the achievements I have already made being a college student.
Jodi
Going to college has been a really good experience for me. I have learned independence, I have taken valuable classes, and I have made many new friends.
Angela
From my college experience, I have gained confidence and a basic working knowledge of internet technologies. My attendance has been valuable in that I have become able to enter my chosen field in a job that has advancement opportunities, and the ability to make my voice be heard. That it should be heard. The future is no longer one dimensional for my familybecause I chose to attend college and make sure that my children have a college educated parent, thereby reducing the statistical probability for drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or physical abuse.
Elesha
I have recieved more independence, responsibility, and I have also gotten to know and understand my self better. Every time I step foot on campus I feel like an adult and i have to handle my buisness as an adult. I also feel as though i have options as to what i want to do with my life and education, i dont feel smothered or like a child. college has been very valuable to attend bescause it is what gives you oppertunities in life. Especially with the economy the way it is, you have to have some good education to get a decent job and make enough money to take care of yourself. it is also valuable to me because there is so much you can learn for free (if you attend a community college) so why would you pass that oppertunity up. Attending college can open doors and windows that the world may need you to see or go through to help make a chance and to become a better person.