Illinois Student Assistance Commission

Today I met with my friend Stella who has just started working with the Illinois Students Assistance Commission. Like the Uniting America program, ISAC is a fairly recent initiative. It aims to expand college access and outreach programs and services to help students navigate the process of applying to and entering college.

Stella’s new position, based in the North side of the city, is going to allow her to work in the field with students of all ages (specifically low income and first-generation students) spreading the word about higher education, essentially showing them the value of a college education.

I feel like I was in her exact position last Fall- excited to start very meaningful work but unsure of where to begin! I think our goals are closely tied in terms of building up our communities so we’re going to pursue ways to work together. I remember how important it was for me to have colleagues from both ICIRR and AAI introduce me to key leaders and include me in their work. It was through that support that I’ve been able to effectively reach out to my unique community. I’m excited to see how she’s going to make an impact in hers!