Meet Jawad Akbar

Elgin Community College student Jawad Akbar began his college journey abroad. Originally from Pakistan, Akbar’s family supported his dream of pursuing higher education overseas. He applied to schools in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia before landing in Belgium to study international trade.  

For Akbar, a naturally social person, the language barrier was a challenging situation. “I stayed there for a year,” he said. “I knew I wanted to study somewhere else. I applied to study in the United States, and here I am.”  

Akbar wasted no time getting involved at ECC. In his third semester, he was involved in USAC (United Students of All Cultures) and was a student worker in the admissions office. “I really love the diversity here, I see people from all backgrounds,” Akbar said. “People are so welcoming here.” 

Akbar plans to graduate next spring and transfer to Northern Illinois University to continue studying marketing and sales with eyes on an insurance career.  

Read more about this friendly face below! 

What is one of your study hacks or habits? I like to study all night before an exam. I think that works best for me, but that may not be for everyone. 

What is one thing that really makes your day? If I do everything on my schedule. Go to school, do my homework, hit the gym, and see my girlfriend. That is a great day. 

What is your favorite meal to cook or eat out? Cooking is not for me. I love to go out, and I like Pakistani food. It makes me think of home. But I love burgers too. 

What is your favorite spot on campus? The Jobe Lounge. All of the fun stuff happens there. 

What surprised you the most about ECC? There are a lot of international students. I have met so many this semester. When I started, it seemed like there weren’t that many. 

Would you like to give a shout out to ECC staff, faculty, or peer? I want to shout out the admissions team and Ashley Letteney, my academic advisor. 

What advice would you have for new students? Be yourself and interact with as many people as you can; that is the fun part!