I think it's fair to say that I "bleed orange and blue." Though cliche', I believe that's and accurate way of putting my feelings for this university into words. I get excited every time I see someone else with a big orange "I" t-shirt walking around the world. I just want to shout "I-L-L" in hopes that faintly in the distance, I'll get an "I-N-I."
Now that I've thoroughly expressed my love for this school, there's something to be said about life here. I love that we're so diverse, that is, we have more than 1000 student organizations catering to different interests and a array of represented ethnic groups. There's always something to do here, and something to learn as well. For anyone stuck in their comfort zone, they'll learn to break out of it and experience something new once they step on campus grounds. Encountering people of different races every day is something I'm sure to take for granted out in the real world, because we're a melting pot, the the corporate world can't really compare. People need that exposure to people who don't look like them or do the same things they do, and U of I gives that to them.
Our school is very large, but there's a home for everyone. Like I previously mentioned, the many organizations available to join make it easier to find friends and venture into the unknown to find something else you like. I feel like I'm an individual even amongst 39,900 students. Going off of that, there's so many opportunities to become a leader on campus. I love U of I because it' prepares you for the real world, and prepares you to stand tall in all that you do in the future by giving you the chance to practice it everyday.
No campus is golden, and we've had our share of controversies, however. Most recently, our mascot was removed from campus. Every shred of "Chief Illiniwek's" existence has been taken down, painted over or tucked in the memories of those who actually got the see him dance at halftime. Native American interest groups viewed the mascot as a modern-day minstrel show, mocking the rich Native American culture they cling to. There were protests and boycotts by the small group represented by about 100 students and community leaders. Their small voice was heard, and the mascot was taken away. Of course, many people hated the idea of not having a mascot, I actually came here once it was taken out. So I never got to see this amazing dance in person. However, I've learned so much about the culture from the controversy. I think others did too even though their feelings are on the fence.
One of my favorite memories here is the moment I read my Resident Advisor job offer. They offered to pay my room and board, which has ballooned to almost $1000 more than tuition, and a monthly stipend. I can honestly say that I wouldn't be a student here if I hadn't gotten that job. Financially, my family struggles, and I needed every scholarship and grant I could get. Upon opening the letter, I jumped up and down, spun around an yelled at the top of my lungs. It was such a joyous moment for me because I had worked so hard for it. My experiences as an RA have been beneficial to my professional goals and personal growth in more ways than I can write on paper. i loved ever minute I spent with my residents, helping them to grow into young leaders making them feel at home here. If I could touch the lives of more people before I graduate, I would. It's the greatest feeling in the world.