Oakton Voices

Student Stories

Maciej Padowski, M.D.

Maciej Padowski, M.D., Oakton College Distinguished Alumni honoree, is the Medical Director of the Emergency Department at Ascension Saint Joseph - Elgin Hospital. Read how he pivoted careers from music to healthcare at Oakton.

Helen Hurry, Oakton College Distinguished Alumni Honoree ‘24, has made a transformational difference in the lives and the communities of those she works with. Be inspired by her persistence and story.

Helen Hurry

I’ve learned that every challenge brings growth, and I’m ready for what’s next. I want to keep making a difference in my son’s life and in the lives of others.

AnnLouise Applewhite

Oakton Voices

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Your experience at Oakton will be as unique as you are. Our students are powered by connection to new ideas, community and opportunity. Explore their stories.

Franklin Ocaña II

Published on: October 15, 2024

Franklin Ocaña II returned to Oakton in 2022 to study Fine Arts. In his art, Franklin explores themes such as his Puerto Rican identity, the concept of home and mental health.

Francesca Frost

Published on: October 7, 2024

“When you develop a chronic illness after being able-bodied, everything changes. It’s like telling the Flash he has to crawl—you can’t go at the speed you’re used to. My advice to anyone going through a tough time is this: You are stronger than you think."

EJ Smith

Published on: September 17, 2024

EJ Smith is a machinist at a local manufacturing company who is rising in the ranks with training in computer numerical control (CNC) operation at Oakton.

Yann Kouotou

Published on: September 17, 2024

Yann arrived at Oakton looking for a fresh start and the opportunity to learn how to grow his small business.

Victor Leca

Published on: January 16, 2024

After immigrating to the United States from Brazil in March 2020, Victor Leca set his sights on a college degree.

Steven Gan

Published on: January 16, 2024

Oakton alum Steven Gan knows firsthand the experience of caring for a loved one. He embarked on an educational journey at Oakton, where he found a community of professors and advisors who encouraged him to explore a new career in the medical field.

Sanele Stewart

Published on: January 10, 2024

When Sanele Stewart graduated from high school, he wasn't sure what he wanted to do next.

Lydia Delgado

Published on: December 8, 2023

Lydia Delgado found her path at Oakton as she completed pre-requisite courses needed before her Doctoral in Occupational Therapy degree at University of Illinois Chicago.

Elizabeth Perez

Published on: December 7, 2023

Elizabeth Perez is a driven and passionate student whose journey to a fulfilling career in nursing began while she was still in high school.