Imaan Ali: I started to prioritize my own success and pushed myself forward

As a part of the dual credit program, I started my time at ECC as a high school junior in a new environment while also dealing with tough times in my own life. Even though my time at a new school seemed pretty intimidating, I started to prioritize my own success and pushed myself forward. I consistently showed up to the office hours my professors hosted and went to on-campus tutoring almost all the time outside of class. I took more initiative for self-improvement and adapted to the new environment in front of me. 
 
Eventually, my efforts paid off. I made the President’s List for all the semesters I have been at ECC, signifying academic excellence. I also started to get more involved in student life on campus. I became the founder and the president of the Elgin Community College HOSA Chapter, where members learn more about different health professions and seek out opportunities like volunteering or consulting professionals to learn more about a given occupation.  

I also became a part of the Center for Undergraduate Research, Innovation, and Creativity (CURIC), where I recently completed a research project on cervical cancer in rural communities and presented at the symposium. That project taught me more about health disparities in medically underserved communities, which expanded upon research I did last year with a mentor from Princeton University. My mentor, Librarian Stacey Shah, provided me with ample support, and I am nothing but grateful for her guidance throughout the process. 
 
My story is not simply about academic achievement, but about personal growth and resilience. Starting college early during hard times in my life challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and find things I genuinely enjoy. I learned how to lead, contribute to my community, and move closer towards my dream of becoming a doctor. As I say to anyone reading this: difficult circumstances do not define you unless you allow them to. What defines you is your own resilience and desire for growth, even when the future seems scary. 

Imaan Ali 

Associate of Science 

Bartlett, IL