Benjamin Turns Barriers into Breakthroughs at ICC
College wasn’t part of Benjamin’s original plan.
Uninspired by high school, he entered the workforce after graduation, spending time in HVAC, manufacturing, and information technology. But after a few years, he realized he wanted more—more challenge, more purpose, and more opportunity to make an impact.
That realization brought him to Illinois Central College. Drawing from a family legacy—his mother is an alumna and his grandfather was among the first ICC students in 1967—Benjamin enrolled in Business courses with a bold long-term goal: to one day start a medical technology company that serves people with disabilities.
“ICC has given me a lot of opportunities. It’s really good for STEM, has a good reputation and strong programs, and some of my instructors also teach at Bradley—so I’m getting the same education at a fraction of the cost.”
Benjamin, ICC Student
As a homeschooled student living in a rural area, Benjamin didn’t have many opportunities to build a professional network. That changed when Business Law professor and FBLA advisor Scott Paulson encouraged him to join the Future Business Leaders of America at ICC. The experience sparked his ambition—and success followed quickly. In his first year competing, he placed first in the state and third nationally in Foundations of Selling.
Despite challenges like ADHD and dyslexia, Benjamin has thrived at ICC thanks to supportive faculty and student services. He credits the Academic Support Center and Access Services with helping him strengthen his writing and succeed in the classroom.
Faculty mentors including Paulson, Traci O’Dwyer (Art Appreciation), and Aaron James (Philosophy) taught him how to think critically, explore multiple perspectives, and engage deeply with ideas—skills that are shaping his future.
“Overall, I’ve become a better person just being around the people I’ve met at ICC,” Benjamin said. “College changes the way you think about things, and my experiences here have shifted my thinking from narrow to holistic. It’s been far more valuable than I ever expected.”