Ismael

Activities

• Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS), Secretary – organization that promotes leadership development, enhances academic skills, facilitates networking, and fosters diversity in the food, agricultural, and related sciences
• 100 STRONG Program – program that promotes academics, leadership, and service among African American students
• African Cultural Association (ACA) – program dedicated to educating people about Africa
• Student Alumni Ambassadors – group that works toward strengthening the relationship between the students, alumni, and friends of the University
• Eusa Nia – black student government program within Allen Residence Hall Unit One

One-on-One

Where is your favorite spot on campus to study?
ACES Library

Where is your favorite spot on campus to hang out with your friends?
Illini Union

Where is your favorite spot on campus to relax?
Illini Union

What do you like most about your major?
I chose this field because I enjoy all aspects of working with farmers, especially since agri-finance will enable me to give back to my community. I like the objectives that my major promises. Plus, it's nice to know that once I obtain my degree I'll have a wide range of career options, from working as a loan officer to working with corporations.

What are your favorite courses within your major?
Since I'm a first year student, I am in the process of fulfilling my general education courses and have yet to really get into my agri-finance classes.

What are your favorite extracurricular activities related to your major?
Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS)

What are your favorite extracurricular activities not related to your major?
100 STRONG

Describe your most memorable experience at Illinois.
I love attending Illinites at the Union. There are video games, dancing, and all kinds of fun activities that are free. It's a great place to meet new people. Incoming students should definitely go check it out. It's a place to wind down on Friday nights and spend time hanging with your friends. During the summer of 2004, I participated in the Research Apprentice Program, a three-week summer program sponsored by the College of ACES. I felt very honored when I received the "Most Outstanding Research Apprentice Program Participant Award."

Why do you belong at Illinois?
It's a great fit for me. I like to get involved with many activities and Illinois has limitless opportunities and classes, which allow me to explore my options. The people are nice and faculty members are great. It's the perfect place to grow and learn at the same time. I have also come a long way from Conakry, Guinea to get my college education at Illinois. It is a blessing and a dream come true. I am a first generation college student and my family both domestically and internationally are counting on me. There are so many opportunities for me to help achieve my long term goals of helping build my native country as well as taking care of my family.