Angela Ferencz: Now that I have graduated, the world is still my oyster

As I prepare for the graduation ceremony, I cannot help but reminisce about how I got here. You see, I am what they call a seasoned student. Which means I've been on a very long path, taking one class at a time for approximately 15 years. More specifically, online at Elgin Community College. This is where most of my educational journey started in 2011. Fast forward to now, here I am, graduating with honors. Through the years, I have learned from my various life experiences that some chances are worth taking.  

I learned to persevere, to stay focused, and keep on moving forward. I have found that being a mother, provider, and wife, life is short, and I want to be a role model for my girls.  I discovered along the way that the world is big and tough.  Which helped me to have the courage I needed to succeed for them, and most importantly, for myself. It’s hard to believe that when I started this adventure, my oldest child was 10. During my dedicated journey at ECC, like anyone else, I had a couple of setbacks along the way. However, I chose to keep going. Making lemonade with the lemons I was thrown. To show myself grace along the way because some things are out of my control.   

For one, my oldest child was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes at age 12 and is now 24. I was a working, single mom for the duration of that time. Years later, the birth of my second child and remarriage have all given me the drive to continue. With my struggles and blessings, this encouraged the importance of having that education even more. My family has been big advocates for going the full distance.  

Showing immense gratitude for that support became crucial to gaining my achievements. All while still I maintain my integrity and promote my strengths.  When asked in an alumni questionnaire what I wanted to do, it took a minute for me to answer. I said, now that I have graduated, the world is still my oyster. The question is, do I choose to swim with a group or be the BIG fish? Time will tell, however, I can’t wait to move on to the next chapter, whatever it is. 

Angela Ferencz, ‘26 

Associate in Liberal Studies 

Hampshire, IL