As the academic year draws to a close, the University of Illinois Chicago celebrates the achievements of another graduating class. This year, a cohort of 3,335 undergraduate students is set to embark on the next phase of their journey, equipped with the knowledge and experiences gained during their time at UIC.
Among these graduates, an impressive 46% are first-generation college students, a milestone that not only marks their personal success but also brings immense pride and joy to their families. Their accomplishments serve as a testament to their perseverance and determination to defy expectations and create pathways to success, inspiring their families and the entire UIC community.
Additionally, 20% of these graduates held on-campus student employment positions during the 2023-24 academic year, gaining valuable professional skills and experiences that will serve them well in their future endeavors. These positions not only provided financial support but also contributed to their personal and professional growth.
20% of the graduating class are affiliated with one or more success centers at UIC, a clear demonstration of the university's commitment to providing comprehensive support services. These centers, which are instrumental in assisting students in navigating academic challenges, accessing resources, and fostering a sense of belonging within the UIC community, have played a significant role in the success of these graduates.
Many of these graduates had the opportunity to participate in the Flames Internship Grant program, a testament to our commitment to practical learning. This program provided financial support for internships in various organizations, allowing students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings, gain hands-on experience, and expand their professional networks. Some of the exciting internship locations included the Children's Legal Center, World Relief, and Redmont Wealth Advisors.
As these Flames alumni embark on their respective journeys, they will continue to embody the spirit of UIC and serve as ambassadors for change in their communities and beyond. We encourage the university community to support them by offering mentorship, job opportunities, and networking connections. Their accomplishments will not only inspire future generations of Flames but also contribute to the collective success and advancement of society.
I could not have asked for a better UIC college experience! The faculty and friends met at UIC has offered unwavering support and guidance every step of the way. The school's convenient location and excellent facilities have contributed to an enriching learning journey over the past four years, for which I'm immensely thankful. Go Flames!
- Grace Spalding
The abundance of resources available to students, including career fairs, mock interviews, and engaging courses, has been instrumental in shaping my growth and making my time at UIC truly invaluable. UIC has equipped me with the technical skills and confidence necessary to thrive as an engineer, and I'm excited to explore various career paths post-graduation.
- Leia Ladios
Student Affairs believes the UIC college experience provides a unique opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive environment and is committed to continuing to support the graduating class even after they walk across the stage. SA offers a variety of services for recent graduates to help with graduate/professional school exploration, job searching, and gap year planning. Visit the Student Affairs Career Services website via the link below to learn more about the Career Services Class of 2024 Career Readiness Resources.
Congratulations again to the college graduating class of 2024, and may your future be filled with joy and success! Go Flames!
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