Meet Me Monday: Sid

Elgin Community College (ECC) dual credit student Sid Perkins has found that ECC offers a wealth of opportunities for growth and exploration. Going from high school to college was a bit of a shock at first, but Perkins quickly found ways to get involved and make the most of his last year here. 

In addition to participating in his high school’s color guard and mock trial, Perkins serves as the Spartan Pantry officer of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK).  

“I love the Spartan Pantry, I have learned so much about our community and its needs since I started here,” Perkins said. 

Perkins, who is pursuing an Associate in Arts degree and plans to graduate from high school and ECC in Spring 2026, noticed that students tend to take the courses more seriously.  

“I took AP and honors classes in high school, but here, people seem to be ready to go out into the world,” he said. “Everyone here is so different, everyone has a different story. It didn’t seem that diverse in my high school.” 

Read more about this dynamic dual credit student below!  

What is one thing you do outside of ECC? I love my dog; she is a Bernedoodle. I hang out with my dog all the time. The first thing I do when I get up is walk my dog. 

What is one of your study hacks or habits? I listen to an album by an artist and will study for the duration of the album. One album is the perfect time, otherwise, I can get too locked in.   

What is your favorite spot on campus? On the third floor of B, there is a skylight. I feel like a bird when I am up there. 

What is your favorite thing about ECC? Going from high school to ECC was a little “whoa,” but what I love most is the opportunities to explore, no matter who you are, whatever you are into, no matter what your path, background, or your free time is like. There is something for you to do extracurricular-wise. At no point should you say, “I can’t.”  

Would you like to give a shout to ECC staff, faculty, or peer? I want to shout out Laci, in the Spartan Pantry. She puts in so much work as a volunteer there and she is really cool. 

What advice do you have for new students? Don’t be afraid to explore. Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Find something you love and don’t be ashamed to love it.