First-generation college student Radharani Das knew attending college would not be easy. With hard work, determination, and the generosity of Illinois State University donors, Das has made that dream a reality.
Appears InSince her freshman year, Das has worked multiple jobs and internships to finance her education. Juggling responsibilities was stressful and limited her ability to get involved on campus. When Das applied for the Dr. Gary Weede Scholarship, her hard work paid off.
“I consider myself a hard worker, and it sometimes felt like no how matter how much I worked, I always had this financial struggle,” said Das. “This scholarship validated all the work I have done and is proof that I do deserve to be in college, graduate, and lead a better life.”
Weede came to Illinois State in 1970 to develop a plastics technology program. For the next 28 years, he taught undergraduate and graduate courses, served as department graduate program coordinator, and helped hundreds of students enter the plastics field. Weede’s dedication to education carries on through the named scholarship he and his late wife created. It provides financial assistance to students who have made significant contributions to financing their education. The scholarship lightened Das’ financial burdens, and she was able to take advantage of opportunities that were not possible without donor generosity.
“I’m incredibly grateful, as it has enabled me to join clubs and become involved on campus,” Das said.
Das is president of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, program coordinator for First-Gen Redbirds, vice president for the South Asian Student Alliance, and student ambassador for the Department of Technology. These opportunities are exactly what Weede hoped for when creating the scholarship.
“I feel a sense of pride and accomplishment when I receive letters of appreciation from scholarship recipients telling me how much the financial assistance means to them,” said Weede.
After Das graduates in May, she plans to become a manufacturing or project engineer in the technology field. She eventually hopes to follow in the footsteps of her scholarship benefactor.
“Hopefully I can be the person who is able to offer scholarships to students so they can achieve their dreams,” said Das. “As a first-generation college student, I want to be the person these students can ask for help.”
Scholarships open doors for thousands of Redbirds each year. To learn more about the impact of scholarship support and to make your gift today, visit Giving.IllinoisState.edu.
