In her 15 years at SXU, Katie Szymczak has always been devoted to helping those who needed it.
Szymczak graduated with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Wittenberg University, later obtaining a master’s degree from the University of Michigan in higher education.
Szymczak spoke about going through a major loss early in college, emphasizing the support from her campus community as having a great impact on her.
“That support was amazing and something I take to heart and with me as I work with students today.” She stated, “I was treated with kindness and care and found it impactful to me, so I strive to provide similar care and compassion with my students now.”
She then described how she found her way to TRIO, a program meant to support first-gen, low-income, and disabled students.
“I moved to the Los Angeles area to work for a company that provided a job posting platform for colleges and universities. Two years into that role, I transferred to Chicago.”
In 2009, she began her master’s program at SXU. She found herself gaining an opportunity in her spring semester to become a graduate assistant for what was once called the ‘Learning Center and Disability Services’ or ‘LCDS.’
During her time at LCDS, Szymczak got to know about TRIO. She shared that she had many positive experiences with the program and the people within it.
Then in 2015, Szymczak accepted a position as a specialist in TRIO. This allowed her to work with students more closely, aiding them in whatever they needed in order to succeed.
Usually students meet with specialists for ‘meetings’ to check in and discuss any concerns they have. Szymczak however, encourages her students to talk to her at any time.
She emphasized that conversations with students are her favorite part of her job, along with getting to know her students.
Szymczak is particularly passionate about introducing her students to new experiences, often organizing outings for those a part of TRIO.
“I love seeing students experience something new or different. Whether it is to a local museum, play or traveling to a different state or country.”
One of the upcoming trips she’s planned is a yearly service trip to Belize on May 5th. She shared that while on the trip, students work together to build a home. Students who go on the trip gain the opportunity to bond and gain a valuable experience.
Besides trips, Szymczak believes that even just being in the TRIO office is a good opportunity for students.
“Our office is an excellent place to hang out and make new friends, get support from both your peers and the professional staff, and to experience new adventures and opportunities.”
Szymczak explained that she has learned a variety of things from her students. Most especially, on matters such as culture, religion, and the diversity of the lives people lead.
To gain a better understanding of TRIO and Szymczak herself, I spoke to a few students within TRIO.
Stepping into the TRIO office, there are colorful posters detailing events and various opportunities on many of the walls.
According to other students, the office is never empty and always contains at least one student working on their laptop.
Regarding Szymczak, one student stated, “When I met her, she talked to me like she knew me already. She’s so funny and helpful to any student, even if they’re not apart of TRIO.”
Another student recounted a time when Szymczak was quick to provide her assistance, even before she joined the program.
“I had so many meltdowns and she helped me through it and helped me find a solution.”
The last student I spoke to described numerous talks he’s had with Szymczak.
“Me and Katie had many deep talks about our backgrounds. Even though we aren’t from the same areas, she still tries her best to relate and provide advice to the best of her ability.”
All students I spoke to shared nothing but positive experiences with Szymczak, emphasizing her passion for her job and genuine interest in the well-being of her students.
In her final statement, Szymczak shared advice she had for current students.
“Always attend class. Do your assignments and hand them in on time. Reach out for help early. Help can come from your professors, the Learning Center, your classmates, staff at SXU, family and friends. No one can go through this journey alone. It is hard work, and knowing when to ask for help is imperative to this being a successful journey. Get involved on campus – attend events, join an RSO, work on being a leader, talk to your classmates, meet new friends. If you wish to attend graduate school in the future, earning at least a 3.0 GPA would provide you a greater chance in getting into your graduate program. Some programs do require a higher GPAs than that, so it is important to research your graduate program sooner rather than later.”
TRIO is a grant-funded program across various universities intended to assist first-gen, low-income, and disabled students. It offers grants and provides individualized help for students.The TRIO office at SXU is located at L-111.
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