Graduate Essays - Hannah Garcia: ECC gave me a platform to make an impact

I have been a student at Elgin Community College since the fall of 2021. In this short time, I had the opportunity to engage in our diverse student organizations and be involved in our theater productions. Most importantly, I have been blessed with a robust education.

I want to give a huge shout-out to Dr. Trail, Ms. Whitsitt, Ms. Bohlen, Mr. Kroll, Mr. Han, and Ms. Robinson for challenging and supporting me academically. I mean it when I say I have utilized what I have learned from your classes in my career and life.

During my two years at ECC, I have been the treasurer of the Asian Filipino club, as well as the co-founder of the Strength and Wellness club with my best friend, Kate Moreno. In these organizations, I have made countless memories with my friends, and most importantly, I have been given a platform to make an impact.

One of my favorite experiences on campus was sharing a traditional Filipino dance called Tinikling with members of AFC. This past semester, with support from our strength and wellness club members and the ECC faculty, SAW advocated for the ECC fitness center to be free for all students. College administrators and the ECC Board of Trustees agreed and removed the fee.

My advice for incoming students is to be involved on campus, whether in clubs or classes. Talk to someone new, and talk to your teachers after class! College may seem scary, but in the end, everyone wants one thing — to feel like they belong in the community.

Hannah Garcia, Elgin

Associate in Science

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