Everyone always tells you to follow your dreams, but what if you don’t know what your dream is? At the beginning of my journey at UIS, I decided to try classes in gender studies and environmental studies. While these courses brought me enjoyment and important knowledge, I realized what I enjoyed most was getting to edit my peers’ papers. That leads to my decision to pursue a career in copyediting.

What makes it special is how student-centered UIS is. […] It’s student led. You take control of your learning. If you have an idea, throw it out and you’ll get support. I’ve been able to go as far as I want to go.

Learn more about her research project below.

WHAT:       The University of Illinois Springfield presents the 13th annual Student Technology, Arts & Research Symposium (STARS). The two-day event showcases student research and creative activities during the academic year. Events are free and open to the public, except for the theatre performance for which tickets must be purchased.

WHEN:       5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 11 and 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday, April 12

If it were not for this program offered through UIS, I am not sure that I would have been able to take the steps needed to prepare for law school. UIS offered me an affordable and realistic option when I was trying to determine how to reach my goals. I will be forever thankful for the opportunity I was given as an online student at UIS.

As an online student, I felt like very much a part of the community.  I feel like overall it as a really successful and inclusive college experience for me.   My professors made it really easy to feel like a classroom setting.  My professors created a very inclusive collaborative environment.

Hannah also presented her research at the UIS Student Technology, Arts & Research Symposium, an opportunity available to both on campus and online students.