Meet Kalista Grey

After spending 10 years in the workforce, a layoff gave Elgin Community College student, Kalista Grey, the nudge to return to school. “It was very scary,” Grey said. “It was one of those moments going into the new year, I didn’t want to feel like that again. I was talking with my mom, brother, and some friends, and said, ‘Maybe this is a good time to start college.’” 

After spending five years as a hair stylist and another five working at a bank, Grey is pursuing radiography while attending ECC. “ECC seemed like a natural choice. I knew a lot of people from high school who attended, plus you offer my program.” 

Despite being a little nervous about being in a classroom environment again, Grey has dived headfirst into school. "The easiest place to start is at the beginning; you are never too old or too anything to begin.  I have my experiences, so now I look at things differently.” 

Grey plans to join several clubs, including SWANS, Gamers United, and the Art and Design Club. “It has been really exciting. It is such a different vibe. You get what you put into it. I am putting in a lot because now is the time. I am so thankful for this,” Grey said. 

One thing you do outside of ECC? Job, hobby, family life... I am a huge nerd. I love modeling and painting models, specifically, I love Star Trek models, starships, or Transformers. I invite my mom and dad over, and everyone brings a model. We don’t really talk about anything stressful and enjoy the moment together. 

What is a study hack or habit? I love lo-fi music. I need something rhythmic to play, and I read aloud as much as possible. When I read to myself, I get my thoughts confused, but when I am reading aloud, I hear myself like someone else is saying it. 

Dogs, cats, or houseplants? I have a lizard named Hannibal. He is a bearded dragon, almost 11 inches long. He is about 6 years old. I actually got him from a client when he was just a baby.  

What is your favorite spot on campus? The wildflower planter on the roof of Building B. I love the feeling of the natural rocks; I like to sit out there between classes and read. 

What surprised you about ECC? What surprised me was how friendly everyone was! A smile goes a long way. I think what scared me going into college was being scared of not being liked, which sounds silly. But be nice! 

Would you like to give a shout-out to ECC staff, faculty, or peers? Abby and Charo in Student Life. When I did New Student Orientation, they were taking photos for student IDs. I met both of them that day. They encouraged me to get involved, and I knew they were right. They were so sweet and supportive. I have been going to as many extracurricular activities as I can.