First-generation students reflect on college journeys

First-generation students, from left, Ash Ebikhumi, Makiah Watson ’22, and Christian Arceo.

Of Illinois State University’s 18,000 undergraduates, more than 3,000 students—17% —are the first in their family to attend college. Three first-generation students—Ash Ebikhumi, Christian Arceo, and Makiah Watson—share their stories of navigating college.

Hurricane Ian’s impact felt on campus by loved ones

Mitch Pacyna, wearing a Pub II shirt, standing with his daughter, Michelle Schuline

When Hurricane Ian slammed into southwest Florida last month, University College Program Coordinator Michelle Schuline ’03 watched in disbelief as her father, Mitch Pacyna, shared videos from his waterfront home in Fort Myers Beach of rapidly worsening conditions and ensuing destruction.