Oakton Voices

Student Stories

Francesca Frost

“When you develop a chronic illness after being able-bodied, everything changes. It’s like telling the Flash he has to crawl—you can’t go at the speed you’re used to. My advice to anyone going through a tough time is this: You are stronger than you think."

Yann arrived at Oakton looking for a fresh start and the opportunity to learn how to grow his small business.

Yann Kouotou

EJ Smith is a machinist at a local manufacturing company who is rising in the ranks with training in computer numerical control (CNC) operation at Oakton.

EJ Smith

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.

Victor Leca

Published on: January 16, 2024

After immigrating to the United States from Brazil in March 2020, Victor Leca set his sights on a college degree.

Steven Gan

Published on: January 16, 2024

Oakton alum Steven Gan knows firsthand the experience of caring for a loved one. He embarked on an educational journey at Oakton, where he found a community of professors and advisors who encouraged him to explore a new career in the medical field.

Sanele Stewart

Published on: January 10, 2024

When Sanele Stewart graduated from high school, he wasn't sure what he wanted to do next.

Lydia Delgado

Published on: December 8, 2023

Lydia Delgado found her path at Oakton as she completed pre-requisite courses needed before her Doctoral in Occupational Therapy degree at University of Illinois Chicago.

Elizabeth Perez

Published on: December 7, 2023

Elizabeth Perez is a driven and passionate student whose journey to a fulfilling career in nursing began while she was still in high school.

Marco Moreno

Published on: December 5, 2023

As the first in his family to go to college, Marco Moreno has paved a path for himself and for those who follow in his footsteps.

Lydia Cruz

Published on: December 4, 2023

Growing up in Guam, Lydia Cruz felt at home with the island’s distinctive culture and diverse population. Then she moved to the Chicago area at age 12 and entered what felt like a different world.

Engineering Grads

Published on: November 30, 2023

Oakton grads Michael Ciupinski, Alan Connor, Chris Iliopoulos and Antonio Mercado are finding out what it's like to join one of the country's best engineering school in their junior year through Oakton’s University of Illinois Engineering Pathways program.

Jerrod Tucker

Published on: November 29, 2023

Meet Jerrod W. Tucker—Distinguished Alumni Honoree ’23, Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference Hall of Fame inductee and head coach of the Jacksonville 95ers. Beyond his achievements, Jerrod’s story is about the power of connections, inspiring a ripple effect of giving.