We’re in Champaign: Iyanla Smith
What’s next for you now that you’ve graduated?
Now that I am a first-generation college graduate from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, I will be attending business school at Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois to attain my Masters of Science in Management. The on-campus MSM at Illinois is a nine-month graduate program, so next year in May 2025, I’ll be graduating with my second degree! As I look forward into the future, I hope to continue to be a positive beacon of inspiration for others, while continuing to pursue the things I love and am passionate about.
What are you most proud of from your time in college?
I am most proud of the personal growth I have been able to witness and self-reflect on. Being a first-generation college student, who is also Black and female from a low-resourced community on the south side of Chicago, I have faced significant obstacles that have shaped my character. I am grateful to have had a strong sense of self and a merciful relationship with God, which kept me hopeful and determined throughout my college journey.
What was your Chicago Scholars experience like?
My experience as a Chicago Scholar has been undeniably amazing! From the moment I found out about Chicago Scholars in 2019, I knew it would greatly benefit me in the long run. I spent hours perfecting my application, reaching out to academic counselors, and verbally manifesting to ensure that I had a shot at being a part of the Chicago Scholars Class of 2024.
When I received the notification of my acceptance, it felt like my entire life perspective shifted. This was my chance to transform my future, and I seized it with determination and gratitude. I was the only Chicago Scholar from my high school at the time, so bragging rights were through the roof. Lol, I even attended the Annual College Choice Celebration honoring the Class of 2023, because I was just so excited and thrilled to be apart of the Chicago Scholars network. New Scholar Orientation was fantastic; seeing so many future leaders, researchers, and advocates come together filled me with excitement and inspiration. Traveling to the CS workshops in downtown Chicago from 63rd on the CTA Red Line, provided me with a glimpse of hope and humility, as I recognized that many students from my community unfortunately do not get the same experience. On-site was great; I made a memorable impression on the admissions counselors of the schools I applied to, and I strongly believe that it played a significant role in my ultimate acceptance at the University of Illinois.
My CS cohort, Cohort 2462, was filled with unique individuals who inspired me to always be true to myself. (If Cohort 2462 sees this, I truly hope you all are succeeding in life.) I was also a Chicago Scholars Ambassador so I had the opportunity to contribute directly to Chicago Scholar’s programs and initiatives. And please, let me not forget, I had front-row seats to the 2020 NBA All-Star game, in which Team Lebron took home the title of being “All-Stars” that night. Overall, my experience with Chicago Scholars has been godsend and I am very appreciative of the fruitful memories, connections, and lessons it has brought me.
How did Chicago Scholars support you to be the person you are today?
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.
What does being from Chicago mean to you now?
I have always had a deep appreciation being from the City of Chicago, because I just feel like Chicagoans can brag different (IYKYK!) But, now that I have had the opportunity to attend a four-year multicultural university such as the University of Illinois, and experience other cultures, experiences, and perspectives, I’ve come to appreciate the richness and diversity beyond Chicago. It’s broadened my understanding of the world and enlightened my respect for different ways of life. However, I still love my city. Real bad. Being from Chicago, especially from the more disinvested communities in the City of Chicago is a testament of resilience, adaptability, and hope.
What do you wish people knew about Chicago Scholars, as well as the city of Chicago?
I hope that when people think of Chicago Scholars, the word that comes to mind is ‘greatness.’ Because, that is essentially what it is. A great organization, doing great things, for great individuals.
I hope that when people think of the City of Chicago, they know and understand, it is more than meets the eye. Those who are not familiar with the city often form their opinions based on negative media portrayals or uninformed conversations, which may not accurately reflect the true nature of Chicago. Chicago is the place where you become the best version of yourself, rather it be through trial, tribulation, or triumph.