Meet Jose Bendeck

Before Elgin Community College (ECC) student Jose Bendeck, of Pingree Grove, Ill., started at ECC, he knew he wanted to begin his education at a community college. After going to College of DuPage for two semesters, he took a short break before enrolling at ECC in the spring of 2024 where he is getting an associates in science degree. 

“I like how involved the students are here,” Bendeck said. His brother and sister are at Illinois universities and advised him to get involved before heading to a larger campus. He took their advice and is an active member of OLAS and the Engineering Tech Club while also acting as the marketing officer of the MATH club. 

He has plans to transfer to the University of Illinois-Chicago (UIC), where his brother is enrolled, pursuing an advanced degree (or two!) in computer science. “I started programming video games when I was little. I like to know how to make things. There are so many ways to do it on a computer,” he said.  

Find out more about this lifelong learner below!  

What did you want to be when you were growing up? 
I wanted to be in the Navy, like my dad, but my plans changed. 

What is your favorite spot on campus? 
I like the library, it is very quiet and very pretty. 

What is one thing that really makes your day? 

Completing my assignments! But mostly going home and seeing my family. Right now, it is just me, my dad, and my mom at home. It helps me reset myself. 

Where is one place you dream of traveling to and why? 

I want to go anywhere but maybe Spain? It looks so pretty in pictures. Same for Tokyo, Japan. 

Would you like to give a shout out to an ECC staff member or peer? 

Professors Chris Cunningham and Dan Kernler from the math department, and Richard Jesik from physics.