“It’s what everyone says: It’s the community. The tight-knit community here at IC is really special,” she replies. It’s a cold January day on campus. Wilkins is just starting her second semester as a college student, but already she appears completely at home sipping a Starbucks coffee in the Baxter Fireside Lounge. She greets almost every student who walks past by name — checking in to see how their semester is going or asking if they will be at this week’s Alpha Phi Omega meeting.

Although she seems completely relaxed, the Spanish and education major says she came to IC to get out of her comfort zone. Her plans for the next three years reflect that. A BreakAway this summer will introduce her to several firsts. It will be her first time visiting another country — she will experience three on the trip: Mexico, Belize and Guatemala — and her first time to fly on a plane. She anticipates the trip teaching her some valuable lessons.

“This trip really connects to what I want to do in my career. It’s a great opportunity to prepare for the future,” she said. It’s also a preview of what she can expect during her junior year when she plans to spend an entire semester abroad studying in Spain. Wilkins knew she wanted to become a Spanish teacher even before she chose IC. She was influenced by her mother, a teacher whom she describes as a “superhero” and her high school Spanish teacher.

While it was the community at IC that first drew her in, it’s been support from faculty and the outlets for her many interests that have fully convinced her that she chose the right college. Wilkins is a member of concert choir, Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Student Senate and an ESL tutor in the community. Ask about her work with national service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega, and her passion is undeniable.

“I would rather be busy than bored,” she said. “I have never felt limited at Illinois College. I have found many new areas of interest that have already helped me to grow.” Wilkins clarifies that while she is excited to travel the world and be a part of so many exciting organizations, her typical day at Illinois College also includes what you would expect for a student: “A lot of my day is devoted to reading and studying.”

As she works hard and dreams big, Wilkins is thankful for those who are invested in the future of Illinois College students. Like many students at IC, she has received several scholarships. The College awarded $18.8 million — an average of $19,218 per student — in scholarships and aid last year. The Inspiring Achievement Campaign aims to add an additional $15 million in endowed scholarships and $14 million to ensure that every student has at least one experiential learning opportunity like an internship or study abroad semester. For students like Wilkins, who are just beginning their college journey, that support makes a meaningful difference.

“It is amazing to have such financial support on campus,” she said. “It makes me feel like Illinois College is doing great things for alumni to want to give back and support others.”