We’re Everywhere

“Chicago Scholars is where potential is realized and where confidence is gained.”

“You can’t talk about the city without talking about this organization.”

“I was able to connect with other first-generation college students and staff who validated my experiences and created a supportive network that motivated me during times of doubt.”

“Chicago Scholars allowed me to not only to dream but strongly believe in the second chance furnished by a higher education.”

“Chicago is a known as a colorful, culturally rich city because of people like Chicago Scholars. They are the ones creating trends and being leaders in the communities they serve.”

“Honestly, I made it to college because of Chicago Scholars. I had the talent and determination but as a first generation college student, I didn’t know where to start… Chicago Scholars helped me navigate this new journey so that I could make a sound decision.”

“Chicago Scholars are some of the most resilient young adults…They have big aspirations and will work hard to achieve their goals. That’s what I wish people knew about Chicago Scholars and Chicago as a city; we work hard every day to reach our full potential.”

“I am a first generation, low income student from the Roseland community. College access was a foreign concept to me, as it was also for a number of my peers. Chicago Scholars prepared me with the skills needed to excel not only in my undergraduate career, but thereafter.” 

“Had I not been a Scholar or worked at Nuveen, then I would not have the career I have had up to today. “

“As a first-generation college student, I was initially overwhelmed by the prospect of higher education. Chicago Scholars guided me through the college application process and encouraged me to explore opportunities beyond my hometown.”

“There has not been a moment in my life where I have felt like I was no longer a part of Chicago Scholars. They do an excellent job at always finding ways to include, uplift, and support me in my personal and professional development.”

“By having Chicago Scholars’ staff visit us directly on campus, I was able to meet other scholars attending U of M while also ensuring I was on the right track to graduate my senior year. As a product of this organization, I am motivated and passionate about serving as a mentor for Chicago youth in various capacities.” 

“Living out my wildest dreams, thanks to Chicago Scholars.”

“Chicago Scholars supported my professional development and networking through the EMERGE internship. It was during this internship that I discovered my passion for risk management and insurance while serving as a risk intern at CIBC. Since then, I have been dedicated to pursuing opportunities in this field.”

“Chicago Scholars has given me the opportunity to lead talks with some students to share more about my story and to instill knowledge and wisdom on the next generation of superstars.”

“CS made it so I didn’t feel a lack. I was also a Quest Bridge Scholar, so I matched with the University of Pennsylvania. I wouldn’t have been able to do Quest Bridge without CS.”

“Chicago Scholars was more than just an experience; it was a pivotal chapter in the epic tale of my life.”

“CS saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself.”

“Chicago Scholars is a beacon of hope and empowerment for many.”

“My second piece of advice [for Scholars] would be to pay it forward. Don’t forget the investment that Chicago Scholars made in you and your career. Make sure you pay it forward and use your learnings, blessings, etc., to help impact the next generation of Chicago Scholars.”

“Chicago Scholars was a great opportunity to work in different fields and get a better understanding and perspectives of other fields.”

“Beyond their work in demystifying the college process, Chicago Scholars hosted me for my first college internship and gave me the space to explore my passions.”

“CS is that it is the only program guaranteed to equip you with the skills you’ll need post college. I know there are a lot of programs out there and I applied to a lot of them in high school. CS holistically offered the best outcomes.” 

“Chicago Scholars didn’t just equip me with professional skills – they empowered me to become a leader. I channeled that leadership by co-founding a scholarship at my university to support students who, like me, wouldn’t qualify for government funding. Thanks to Chicago Scholars’ corporate partnerships, I also gained invaluable mentorship and connections that continue to propel me forward in my career.”

“To make a long story short, Chicago Scholars supported me to be the person I am today, by simply giving me support, access and opportunity. “

“My participation in Chicago Scholars and other grassroots organizations has helped me to feel that sense of community and showed me to care about my city.”

“My experience with Chicago Scholars is beyond words. It was incredible and life-changing, providing the love, support, and community I needed to pursue my dreams.”

“I didn’t really have any options before Chicago Scholars. I didn’t know the path forward. Chicago Scholars shaped me professionally. I was given so many role models through the mentors, and my whole world opened up.”

“Chicago Scholars helped me develop a sense of paying it forward. I understood that my success was not solely due to my effort, but also the support of my family, my teachers, and my mentors.” 

“Being immersed in spaces that are diverse in background and perspective is valuable and necessary for young people, and Chicago Scholars offers that.” 

“CS houses some of the best and brightest that could have been easily overlooked if there were no CS.”

“If not for CS, I would not be the strong individual I am today, in terms of believing in myself and my skills. CS helped me recognize the talent within myself.”

“These folks didn’t know me, but they had a shared vision and mission. They didn’t have to know me, but they saw my potential and automatically invested in me.”

“I wish more people recognized how Chicago Scholars changes the lives of young individuals. It’s more than a college access program; it’s a catalyst for change that empowers future leaders.”

“CS gave me community to lean on when I needed it most. At college, they taught me the importance of giving back. Now, I’m able to give back with the equitable fund and I reached dreams for college. They supported me in all aspects.”