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Anabelle Jimenez grew up in Chicago’s Ravenswood neighborhood, just a few miles away from �����о���’s Main Campus on the city’s North Side. Coming from a small family, which includes her and her parents, being close to home was a deciding factor in choosing where she would go to college.

“I knew I was never going to go out of state for college,” Jimenez said. “I willingly wanted to stay close to my family.”

Jimenez attended Lane Tech College Prep. Although she knew she wanted to go to college, coming from a single-income household, she also knew paying for it would be a challenge. Then, she received �����о���n’s Presidential Scholarship.

“�����о���n’s Presidential Scholarship ensured that I wouldn’t have to worry about anything during my time here,” Jimenez said. “It was evidently clear — �����о��� checked off all the boxes on my list. By choosing �����о���n, I was able to stay close to my family, study anything I wanted and grow as a person.”

That growth has been evident. As a Psychology major and Anthropology minor, Jimenez isn’t just going to classes and going home. She’s part of the Honors Program, McNair Scholars Program and . Additionally, she’s presented research at two conferences, works as a student lab manager in the Department of Psychology and has participated in summer research programs with the Student Center for Science Engagement.

“�����о���n is just truly incredible at providing people with opportunities,” Jimenez said.  

Acting Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Professor of Psychology Amanda Dykema-Engblade, Ph.D., feels Jimenez’s generosity, collaborative nature, motivation, and blend of academic and practical knowledge make her a truly exceptional member of the �����о���n community.

“Anabelle embodies the spirit of an NEIU student,” Dr. Dykema-Engblade said. “She is a hard-working, driven, fearless and curious individual who is assiduous in her pursuit of the opportunities NEIU provides. Anabelle eagerly shares her knowledge and advocates for both her peers and the University. I'm grateful that our paths have crossed!”

Jimenez feels a deep sense of community at �����о���n and believes it’s something unique — especially for a University that is largely a commuter school.

“I think it’s a big misconception that you can’t find a sense of belonging and community at a commuter school,” Jimenez said. “At �����о���n finding your people is facilitated by the multitude of campus events and organizations that are working hard to bring people together. �����о���n has also allowed me to form really great relationships with faculty who have both challenged me and cheered me on. I feel so seen and supported at this school and I will never take that for granted.”

Jimenez, who’s currently a junior, hopes to continue her education beyond her undergraduate degree. Her goal is to pursue a Ph.D. in social psychology and continue to stay in research and academia.

“From faculty and staff to fellow peers, I have found people who are absolute gems,” Jimenez said. “�����о���n is extremely generous in many ways and I am so thankful to be here.”