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Civil engineering student, Student Government Association president, Creative Arts Club founder, 2023 Lincoln Academy of Illinois Student Laureate, and now, 2024 Luminary Award recipient.
Civil engineering student, Student Government Association president, Creative Arts Club founder, 2023 Lincoln Academy of Illinois Student Laureate, and now, 2024 Luminary Award recipient.
Daley College recent graduate David Lopez already boasts an impressive resume. He started his higher education journey at a four-year institution but quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. A former elementary school teacher suggested Daley. Because of the school’s large Latinx student population, David feels a sense of belonging at the college.
David grew up near Daley’s Southwest Side campus, which he says heavily influenced his decision to study civil engineering. He wants to create more public spaces in his community and more equitable and accessible modes of transportation.
After graduating from Daley, David’s plans include transferring to a four-year institution.
At 15, I never imagined I’d one day work in the automotive industry. Back in middle school, I told everyone on career day that I wanted to design cars, which sparked my interest in engineering—but the cost of college made that dream feel out of reach.
When Kenneth Balcarcel moved to the United States from Guatemala, he faced the daunting challenge of learning a new language while navigating life in a new country.
For more than 25 years, Jocelyn Sanders built a successful career as a salon owner and licensed cosmetologist. But deep down, there were still goals she wanted to complete, like going back to school.
After my time in the military, I decided to enroll at Wilbur Wright College. I saw it as an opportunity for a fresh start. I was determined to take full advantage of every resource available to me. I learned how to study and take notes, I met with my advisors, I networked with my peers, and I was enjoying all my classes. One day, one of my professors took notice of my hard work and dedication and asked me a simple question that changed the entire trajectory of my life: “How are you paying for college?”
