Graduate Essays - Beth Barnes: I am beyond grateful for all of the experiences ECC has provided me

My time at Elgin Community College has been the best years of my life. Since I was a freshman, even during the height of the pandemic, I was able to make new friends and get involved, whether virtual or in person. As I prioritized my studies while still working full-time hours for the Boys & Girls Club of Elgin, I maintained a 4.0 GPA and joined the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. Little did I know that joining this organization would enhance my overall college experience.

By investing my time and energy into such a phenomenal chapter of PTK, I earned several awards and recognition as a 2023 Coca-Cola Academic Team Silver Scholar. Even as an introverted bookworm, I built countless friendships through numerous campus activities, events, and functions. Being involved in the honors program at ECC allowed me to earn a full-tuition scholarship to Elmhurst University. With the help and support of ECC’s honors program director, Jason Kane, I made my dream a reality. I am beyond grateful for all of the experiences ECC has provided me, and I hope to continue this fun academic journey in the Fall as I start a new chapter of my life at Elmhurst.

Beth Barnes, West Dundee

Associate in Arts