Oakton Voices

Student Stories

Patrick Butiong

As a licensed physical therapist assistant, Patrick Butiong helps people move through pain and regain their confidence—one thoughtful exercise at a time.

"I’m mentoring students who are serious about design, helping them take their work to the next level. I’m learning with them, and helping them, while still pushing forward in my own career. It’s grounding. And they inspire me—they’re fearless."

Robert Noia

Taylor was looking for a college experience that was a close to home commute. What he found were opportunities to build community and grow as a leader.

Taylor Anama

Oakton Voices

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Your experience at Oakton will be as unique as you are. Our students are powered by connection to new ideas, community and opportunity. Explore their stories.

Marga Martinez

Published on: May 14, 2025

Marga’s decision to move to the U.S. was deeply personal—rooted in the desire for healing and openness around mental health.

Raisa Gwyneth Javan

Published on: May 2, 2025

Inspired by the compassionate nurses who supported her family through their most difficult moments, Raisa shifted course and enrolled in Oakton’s nursing program.

Giorgia Balestri

Published on: April 30, 2025

"When you have a family, or you feel older, and you’re busy and new to the community, it’s hard. But don’t listen to that voice. You can do it. Keep going—you will be proud of yourself.”

Cindi-Marie Willoughby

Published on: January 6, 2025

Cindi-Marie Willoughby, Psy.D. is an Oakton College Distinguished Alumni honoree. Her work is continuously guided by resilience as a clinical psychologist and college professor.

Dario Castañeda

Published on: January 6, 2025

“I feel that immigration law is the best field of law as far as you’re giving back and also receiving so much. When a client becomes a citizen, it’s the ultimate achievement. "

Amayrani Vargas

Published on: January 2, 2025

Amayrani Vargas was looking for a way to level up in her career when she discovered Oakton’s Commercial Driver’s License program. With help from the Workforce Equity Initiative, Amayrani received financial assistance—and a whole lot of encouragement.

Jennifer Rector

Published on: December 17, 2024

"After 23 years as a vet tech, I didn’t know if I’d find another calling, but I find this career very, very fulfilling." Learn more about Jennifer's medical laboratory technology journey.

Saviya Quraishi

Published on: December 16, 2024

“I haven’t always been a big fan of school, but that changed at Oakton. I just love coming here—it’s so peaceful to me, it just relaxes me. It’s because I 100 percent feel like I belong here. This is my place."

Maciej Padowski, M.D.

Published on: December 4, 2024

Maciej Padowski, M.D., Oakton College Distinguished Alumni honoree, is the Medical Director of the Emergency Department at Ascension Saint Joseph - Elgin Hospital. Read how he pivoted careers.