Meet some of our Alumni and Students

Patrick Hoehn – Moraine Valley Community College

Patrick graduated with an A.A. degree and is currently serving an 8-month internship at Disney Quest in Downtown Disney (Florida).

The CRCP benefited me by helping me get my Associate in Arts degree. UPS helped me with the quick thinking that is needed here (at Disney Quest). UPS also helped me maintain energy while constantly working. There may not be much physical work at Disney Quest, but one needs to keep moving and have the energy to interact with the guests.

Gerald Johnson – Prairie State College

Gerald graduated from Prairie State with an Associate in Journalism Studies degree and is currently pursuing a B.A. in Film/Video at Chicago State University while continuing in the CRCP.

While I was born in Chicago, I was raised in Kansas City, Missouri where I attended college. I come from a military family. My Dad served extensively during the Korean War. I spent 6 years in the Marine Corps reserves in the 80s, so I’m not your typical college student. I checked out the CRCP when I enrolled at Prairie State to return to college for fall 2005, and enrolled that December. Even with my military experience, the work is hard. But, if you’re determined, I would suggest pursuing your education through the CRCP. It’s been important for me to learn how to budget my time. One thing I really like is having my weekends off. It gives me time to relax and to study. I’m a history buff, so in my free time, I’m writing a WWII novel. One day, I’ll attend film school.

Ojevwe Omene – Chicago State University

Ojevwe graduated with a B.S. in Nursing in 2008. She is currently a registered nurse at University of Chicago Hospitals in the cardiology unit.

The CRCP was my American dream realized. I emigrated from Nigeria to Chicago in 2003 with my father. After considering another college, I elected to enroll at Chicago State University to pursue my nursing degree.

I joined the CRCP to become financially independent and to earn a debt-free education. When I joined, very few of my nursing classmates worked outside jobs. Despite the demands of the nursing curriculum and working at night, with the support of my UPS manager, Mel Cano, I was able to do both successfully. The support of UPS was amazing! The job was tough but I was up for the challenge. I took advantage of the opportunity to move up. I became a part-time supervisor and with my nursing background, a health and safety supervisor. Some days were very frustrating. There were days I cried. There were days I was disappointed. There were a lot of sacrifices made. Every time I fell, I got up and dusted myself off, regrouped, refocused and continued. My family, friends and teachers encouraged me to quit the job. I prevailed. With the help of the CRCP, I am in the position to help keep people alive. I intend to enroll in Loyola University, Chicago for advanced graduate work. My goals are to own my own nursing agency or attend medical school.

Samantha Cooke – Chicago State University

Samantha graduated with a B.S. in Education in 2008. In the summer of 2010, she earned her Master’s Degree in Recreation Resource Administration at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale.

When my volleyball scholarship eligibility ended, I needed a plan in order to stay in school. I learned about the CRCP through word of mouth and various posters around campus.

Being from a small town in California, a chance to experience big city life in Chicago was a great learning opportunity that I took full advantage of. I was successful because I was determined not to leave Illinois without graduating. I came to Chicago State University to obtain my bachelor’s degree; I was not going anywhere until I graduated!

During my time at CRCP and working at UPS, I gained a sense of independence and accomplishment. Being away from my family and friends, I was not able to go home when I wanted. I had to figure things out on my own. I had to take care of myself. I had to grow up and not rely on my parents for everything. I learned that anything is possible if you just TRY! While working at UPS and being involved with the CRCP, I came into my own as a young professional. I did not realize this until I reflected upon my CRCP experience.

As a graduate assistant for a recreation program, I bring two worlds together: able bodied students and those with disabilities. Ultimately, I want to pursue a career in wilderness therapy.

Ebony Oliver – Chicago State University

Ebony graduated with a B.S. in Business Administration, Finance in 2008 and currently works in the Finance Department at UPS.

I heard about the CRCP from a student in the program. I was a full-time student on a track and field scholarship and commuting from Roselle, Illinois. Faced with a 50 percent reduction in my scholarship the following year, I enrolled in the CRCP after my second year at Chicago State University (CSU).

My college experience was very rough. I juggled jobs, school, and athletics but in the end I am happy with the results. While at CSU, I held three different jobs as a full-time student, athlete and UPSer working during the night. I also became head track and field coach at Gwendolyn Brooks High School and an assistant Cross Country coach at William Rainey Harper College. 

Through the CRCP, I’ve obtained a bachelor’s degree with minimal debt and gained management experience. When I first joined UPS, I pretty much had the idea of doing whatever I needed to do to stay in CRCP. I never thought my first day on the job I would be sitting where I am now. I have GREAT thoughts on my UPS experience. Since 2005, with encouragement from my UPS student relations representative, I applied for and was promoted to part-time supervisor.  After that, I began to inquire about career opportunities. I’ve gained pride in the company I work for, a career opportunity, and great personal and work relationships. I really couldn’t ask for more.

Courtney McDonald – Chicago State University

Courtney graduated with a B.S. in Physical Education in 2009 and is certified to teach in Illinois.

I enrolled in the CRCP because I thought it was a great program with great benefits. I would have a steady job at UPS with a steady paycheck, and I would be able to pursue a college degree debt free.

I learned about the CRCP when my high school, Dunbar, took a field trip to a CRCP open house. I graduated from Dunbar in 2004, and chose Chicago State University (CSU) to pursue my degree. CRCP was my way into college.

I had a wonderful experience while in the physical education program at CSU. I learned what it means to live a healthy life, and how to teach students how to live healthy and active lives. Balancing my personal life, being a full-time student and a part-time employee working at night taught me a lot about prioritizing. Hard work and dedication were the keys to my success. Although it was a struggle at times, when I look back on the journey, I realize that it was well worth it.

My family is proud of me, especially my mom, who is a CSU graduate and a teacher. I am certified to teach physical education in Illinois, and am currently applying for jobs throughout the state. I’m also continuing my education by adding endorsements onto my teaching certificate. I intend to become a successful teacher dedicated to his students in school and in life. I hope this program continues to impact others’ lives just as it has impacted mine.

Laura Haddadin – Moraine Valley Community College

Laura graduated with an A.A. in Human Resources in 2009

I was taking classes, one at a time, when I heard about the CRCP. I mentioned the program to my daughter Amanda. She enrolled and began earning monetary awards for academic success. When I joined her in the program I was scared. I didn’t know if I could handle the challenge of taking two classes while working at UPS and maintaining a family. When algebra got tough, my son, Shadi reminded me that I wasn’t a quitter.

Over a three-year period, my other three children enrolled in CRCP. Among the five of us, we have earned four associates degrees. All are employed in their chosen fields or continuing their education.

My husband thinks CRCP is great. He’s self-employed so the program has helped us with our kids’ college education. The UPS experience has provided structure for my children, discipline, learning to multi-task, and exposure to the corporate world. 

Without the CRCP, I would probably still be taking one class at a time. Also, I’m not sure we would have been able to afford college for all of our kids and me.

My goal is a career in human resources at UPS. I want to earn my bachelor’s degree and possibly a master’s.

My best advice to CRCP students:  don’t give up; start out slow; don’t overload; and make the necessary sacrifices.

Quentin Stephens – Chicago State University

Quentin graduated with a Board of Governors B.A. in 2010 and pursuing a teaching certificate.

After graduating from Joliet West High School, I attended Southern Illinois University. Unfocused, I didn’t finish. I returned to Chicago, took several jobs, but couldn’t move up the ladder. With the responsibility of a family, I realized I wasn’t going anywhere so I went back to school to better myself.  

The CRCP opened the door for me to continue my education after my scholarship was exhausted. It has been a lifesaver. It’s taken me a while. I have two adult children and three grandchildren. I worked two jobs while attending classes full time and raising a family. 

I wanted to quit many times. My mom, sister (a teacher), and mentors, have all encouraged me and helped me to stay focused. Fortunately, I’m a patient person and as a coach, a big kid. My kids are proud of me and my son-in-law has been inspired to return to school. He says, if I can do it, he can.

In May 2010, I will graduate from the Chicago State University Board of Governors program.  I have served as president and vice president of the Future Teachers Organization at CSU and tutored students in math, reading and science through volunteer organizations. Young men need male role models and I plan to become a teacher and serve as a male role model.

UPS has been a godsend. Having management experience, I could pursue advancement at UPS. However, I love working with kids so the next step will be to earn my teaching certificate this fall.

Ronald Brown – Chicago State University

Ronald graduated with a B.S. in Criminal Justice in 2010

After graduating from Naperville Central High School, I had pretty much decided to attend Chicago State University (CSU) because it was affordable. I was visiting their website when I found the CRCP. I began CRCP in the fall of 2006, and I am currently completing an internship with the CSU police department. I attended school full-time while working nights at UPS and earned every college credit through the CRCP.

Without the CRCP, I would have probably gone to a community college and would be paying back loans. Being in the program has helped me pay for tuition, fees, required books, and campus housing.

I’ll continue taking classes to earn my certification and will then pursue full-time employment. I am looking forward to my life after graduation. The CRCP has been a huge factor in helping me achieve my goals. For others considering the CRCP, stay focused on your goals and don’t give up.

Jeriel Johnson – Chicago State University

Jeriel graduated with a B.S. in Accounting in 2010 and works as a tax auditor for a national firm.

My father learned about the CRCP at a church event. He has a bachelor’s degree and stressed education as long as I can remember. After graduating from John Hope College Prep High School, I attended college out of state. However, when my engineering scholarship was reduced, I needed another option.  

My twin brother and I enrolled in the CRCP in 2006. We were able to get our own apartment as a result of the program’s benefits. I’m proud of my 3.7 GPA.

Intertwining work and class schedules has been very difficult. I try to capitalize on every opportunity God provides. UPS has been an excellent stepping stone for me, and the CRCP has allowed me an opportunity to attain my bachelor’s degree debt free and support my family. I have a great support base within my family. CSU professors and CRCP staff have also provided a push. Everything that was promised has manifested. It really transforms dreams into reality. 

I am pursuing career opportunities in my field, and will begin preparation for the CPA exam soon. Eventually, I want to start my own accounting firm.  My advice to others is to follow your heart. Never allow procrastination to defeat you. Remain persistent and success will inevitably come.

Erika Serrano – Chicago State University

Major: Bilingual Education

My family immigrated to the United States from Mexico in 2000. Already enrolled in college, I quit my studies and moved here to work and help my family. When I began working for UPS, I did not speak English. When I was promoted to part-time supervisor, my motivation was to become fluent in English. I joined the CRCP to get rid of my fears and start building a future for myself. Two things I can tell you: books are very expensive and tuition is astronomical here in comparison to my $10 fee per year in Mexico. 

I don’t know of any other program that will benefit students like this. My brother, sister, and I are the first in our family to attend college. With the help of CRCP, I have never had to worry about my school tuition. I am able to be independent and not work a second job to pay rent. I’m close to graduation and that’s the biggest success.

I want to work as a teacher in Bilingual Education in order to help students making a transition to English retain their first language. In the future, I want to earn my master’s degree in administration.

I am pretty sure that if it weren’t for CRCP, my story would be different. Thanks to CRCP and UPS, I can see my dreams materialize. It is worth the hard work and the time invested. Never give up because it pays off.

Rose Givhan – Morton College

Major: Nursing

I work at UPS, attend Morton College, and work as a substitute payroll clerk for the Chicago Public Schools (CPS). I’m married, with two adult daughters, a 9-year-old daughter, and a grandson. I have always wanted a college degree. My passions are education and nursing, but it’s always been about education.
 
In 1994, I relocated. I was broke and came to Chicago with two small children. I was very involved in my children’s classrooms, where volunteering and passion led to a teacher’s assistant opportunity. For five years, I worked at UPS and at CPS. Then, I added night college courses for one year. My goal is to become a school nurse. 

CRCP is rewarding and demanding but the sacrifice is worth it! CRCP students should be prepared to change their schedules. I’m not a night person so returning to school through the CRCP and taking evening classes has been tough. But, I believe I can do it like everyone else can. I faithfully attend tutoring and include it in my daily campus schedule. I take time during the day to prepare meals for my family and get my 9-year-old off to school every morning. I’m having a ball!

Anthony Gillum – Chicago State University

Major: Criminal Justice

I attended St. Xavier’s University after high school but quit because of the cost.  After attending a trade school, I joined the CRCP as a student at Moraine Valley Community College and earned my associates degree. I’ll complete studies for the bachelor’s degree within the next year. Raised by my grandparents, I’ll be the first in my family to graduate with a four-year degree. If not for the CRCP, I would probably have earned a trade school certificate and would now be doing heating and air conditioning work.

I’ve known I wanted to work in law enforcement since elementary school. My career goal is to become a Chicago police officer.  It’s my way of giving back. It may sound sort of “boy scoutish”, but I hope I can make the world a better place.

I believe in anything you do, you get what you put into it. Jobs will make you a stronger person. A job will typically teach you communication skills and people skills. Without them, I believe you’ll fail. I want to know how to motivate people, develop relationships, things I can use in all walks of life. Everything one experiences can be used in some way. It’s up to you.

I tell others to be self-motivated. I’ve seen groups of friends come and go from the CRCP. You’ve got to reach your goal on your own or it will be easy to cop out.