What year are you in school and what are you majoring in?
This is my third year at UIC but as far as credits go, I’m a senior graduating this summer 2013. I’m double majoring in psychology and criminology, law & justice.
What are your feelings about graduation coming up so soon? Are you more nervous or excited?
For me it’s a mix of both. I’ve always had the drive to work really hard in school to get me where I am now, so I am looking forward to finishing and starting the next chapter of my life. At the same time, I am nervous but more of the unknown; not having a set plan or job in line is nerve-racking to think about.
Do you have a favorite memory at UIC? If so, what is it?
My favorite memory at UIC was by far my 21st birthday. My roommates and I threw a party which went way beyond anything I was expecting. I was surrounded by amazing people in my life, not only from UIC, but my hometown as well. My roommates, sorority sisters, and people closest to me went out of their way to make sure I had an unforgettable night and I definitely did. The very next day, the guy I’ve been dating, Dave, took me to Las Vegas which was an unforgettable trip in itself; we finished off my birthday and celebrated the New Year. These memories will stay with me for as long as I live.
What will you miss the most about college?
What I’ll miss most about college is definitely all the people I’ve become so close to here being all around me on campus and in the neighborhood. Although I’ll be able to still see people and be in the area post-graduation, I feel like there’s just a difference when you are actually a student and spending all your time on campus and around the area socially as opposed to being finished with school and dropping by here and there to see people.
What are some goals you have right after college? What about in 5 years? 10?
Right after college I plan on taking a little bit of time off to travel, build up my savings by working, and begin applying to big girl jobs probably towards the end of summer. I really can’t say I know exactly where I will be 5 years from now, but I hope by then I will have my masters and working a steady job that I enjoy. Ten years, whoa 31.. hopefully married, maybe kids and happy. The primary goal is to be happy.
Who’s your idol in life/who do you look up to?
Anyone who knows me can answer this one – my dad. My dad has stuck by my side and supported me through anything and everything. He’s one of the most selfless people I know who cares more about my life than his own. He’s also someone who started with nothing; no money, no support, and no family and spent years of hard work building himself up to the successful person he is today. I get my motivation and drive to work hard all from him. My dad is one of a kind that I look up to as a role model and person I strive to be like every day.
What quote or saying do you live your life by?
“Don’t strive to make your presence noticed, but your absence felt” and “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”