Graduate Essays - Najmu Sahar: ECC is a great place to start

When I enrolled at ECC in the fall of 2016, I was still deciding between majoring in nursing or nutrition. I decided to attend ECC because I knew I was not ready to head to a 4-year school. I thought ECC would be a great place to start the college experience while I figured out my path forward.

In 2018, I was hired as a student worker in the Office of Student Life. There, I met some of the most wonderful people, who I appreciate to this day. Being a part of Student Life helped me become a completely different person in the best possible way. I learned how to manage classes and work, made the most amazing friends, and realized this was the college experience I sought. The student life staff always believed I could pursue good things and encouraged me with their kind words. I will miss being a part of the Student Life family.

Academically, I made the dean’s list three times – I am proud of that achievement. My parents were also thrilled with my accomplishment! I had great teachers in all my classes, and each one helped me with any doubts and questions. I’d especially like to thank Professor Marta Walz, whose encouragement helped me gain confidence.

Now that I am finally graduating, I will miss being an ECC student. I have many great memories here, and I grew to become a more outspoken, confident, and joyful person than I was before college.

I recommend ECC to incoming first-year college students because this campus gives you the college experience and motivates you to pursue higher education. ECC offers many classes that new students can pick from, even if they are unsure of what they want to do as a major. The students can access the resources provided at ECC at any time, as the campus staff is always ready to help and guide them with friendly smiles on their faces.

– Najmu Sahar, Elgin
   Associate in Arts
   Basic Vocational Certificate – Phlebotomy
   Basic Vocational Certificate – Basic Nursing Assistant