We’re In Chicago: Brendan Aleman
Our Scholar Alumni really are everywhere, including right here on the CS Dream team! With this new phase of We’re Everywhere, we’re introducing you to some of our incredible CS Staff and Mentors who are Alumni of our program!
Brendan Aleman, the Manager of Partnerships at Chicago Scholars and a graduate of Oberlin College, has made tremendous strides in building connections with the greater Chicago community while representing and advocating for our Scholars and Alumni. We spoke to him about what it means to be working with Scholars as an Alum, what his experience was like as a Scholar, and what he wishes people knew about Chicago Scholars and the City of Chicago. Read on for his responses:
What is your current role at Chicago Scholars?
“I’m the Manager of Partnerships at Chicago Scholars. I build and manage relationships with colleges, universities, corporations, and community based organizations to create meaningful opportunities for our Scholars. My role focuses on expanding access to higher education and career pathways by cultivating partnerships that align with our mission.”
What brought you back to Chicago Scholars to serve on the staff?
“As a public servant, I was searching for my next opportunity to serve my community while growing as a young professional. Thus, I decided to come back to Chicago Scholars to help directly impact the lives of young people from Chicago.”
As a CS team member, what does it mean to you to be shaping the future of the organization?
“To me, shaping the future of Chicago Scholars means continuing the legacy of access and opportunity that the organization has always stood for, while also building new pathways for Scholars to thrive in college and beyond. It means being intentional about the partnerships we create, making sure they reflect the needs of our Scholars and the communities they come from.”
What is it like interacting with current Scholars as an Alumni and current staff member?
“It’s a full circle experience. I see myself in many of the Scholars I interact with, which motivates me to provide them with the guidance, encouragement, and opportunities I once received. It is both humbling and inspiring to serve as a bridge between my experience as a Scholar and the future that current students are building for themselves.”
How has your view of Chicago Scholars changed in your current role with the organization?
“As a Scholar, I mainly saw Chicago Scholars through the lens of college access and mentorship. Now, as a staff member, I see the depth of the work that happens behind the scenes. The level of commitment, strategy, and collaboration that goes into building resources for Scholars and alumni is something I deeply admire and am proud to be a part of.”
What was your experience like as a Scholar?
“I was a member of the 2021 class. My experience as a Scholar was transformative. It gave me the tools, the network, and the confidence to pursue opportunities I may not have thought were possible. Onsite in particular was a life changing experience, as it gave me access to institutions and people who helped shape my academic journey.”
What advice do you have for current Scholars?
“Take full advantage of every resource, connection, and opportunity that comes your way. Do not be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, or put yourself out there. The more proactive you are, the more you will gain from this experience.”
What do you wish people knew about Chicago Scholars and the city of Chicago?
“I wish more people knew how much talent and resilience exists within Chicago Scholars and the city itself. There is often a single narrative told about Chicago, but our Scholars prove every day that the city is full of bright, driven, and community focused young leaders who are shaping the future.”
Is there a piece of professional advice you would like to give your fellow Alumni?
“Never underestimate the power of your network. Stay connected, not just for opportunities but also for community and support. Many of us have walked similar paths, and there is value in sharing knowledge and lifting each other up as we continue to grow in our careers.”