2020 - Elgin Community College students are fired up for success

At Elgin Community College, students like Jeanette Silva Haro are working towards their dreams and receiving the hands-on education to help them move forward.

After earning her Basic Operations Firefighter (BOF) and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) certificates, Haro is more than halfway through the Fire Science and Safety program as she aims to earn her Associate degree.

“I want to complete my AAS [Associate of Applied Science degree] at ECC, enroll in a paramedic program, and eventually become an emergency room nurse,” said Haro.

The mission at Elgin Community College is to improve lives through learning and provide the highest level of excellence in academic programs and student services. At ECC, many students start their degree path or learn in-demand skills while training for a new career.

“I want to be a role model for girls and young women, and the Hispanic community as I am Hispanic,” said Haro. “I believe that if you haven’t been exposed to a career like firefighting, you wouldn’t know how to pursue it. I hope that young girls can see me and know they can achieve anything they work for, and know that any dream is possible. Sometimes, all you need to see is someone’s spark to start your inner flame.”

Registration for fall classes is underway. Courses will be delivered primarily online, with some classes using a hybrid of online and classroom instruction. For more information, visit elgin.edu/moveahead or call the Admissions Office at 847-214-7385. For information in Spanish, please call 847-214-7250.