ECC Stories

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Jasmine Rattanavongsa: Don't be afraid to make the right choice

My time at Elgin Community College has been a journey of self-growth and rediscovery of myself. From financial hardships to mental health struggles — surviving on my own wasn't that easy. Sometimes, I would ask myself... Am I good enough? Can I really give back to my community if I don't have my act together?

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Gianna Daufenbach: ECC is more than a school

When I first started at Elgin Community College as a dual credit student, I thought I had my future all figured out. I was studying nursing, determined to follow a path that felt safe and familiar. But what I didn’t realize then was that ECC would not only give me an education, but it would completely reshape the way I saw myself and my future.

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Dali Rangel: You are stronger than you realize

When I was 15 years old, I started attending Elgin Community College. You might wonder, “How did a 15-year-old enroll in college?” Anything is possible at ECC, thanks to the opportunities available through homeschooling.

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Brenda Rogel: Never fear how high your dreams can be

When I graduated from high school, I feared the height of my dreams, especially because of being a first-generation [college] student. I was lost thinking about my future...

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Annika Van Noord: Success can come quickly at ECC

I am so glad I took the chance to take this class, and I am grateful for the position and experience I have now.

Announcement

Illinois Small Business Development Center Success Story

wineVEIL:  A 5” x 5” piece of two-tone chiffon weighted with silver charms at each corner. Draped over a glass of wine to keep away insects, a wineVEIL transforms wine glasses, decanters, or bottles, creating an elegant touch for outdoor wine tastings, socializing, weddings, and other events. Yes, that is the description of the wineVEIL product. True, it’s unique and elegant. But for Lisa and Mark Hirth, it’s so much more than just a product.

Going to College

Planning Your Summer Courses

Summer is almost here. The time for ice cream, flip-flops, and sunshine. But...what if you could still enjoy all of those things while getting ahead in your education journey? 

Meet Stephanie Salgado

Elgin Community College student Stephanie Salgado, of Elgin, Ill., enrolled as a dual credit student with a nudge from her parents. “I took the chance, and I really enjoy it here,” she said. “I love it way more than high school, and I feel like I have gotten a head start since I now know what college is like.”