Name: Imani Dixon
Age: 20 years old
Major: Sociology
Year: 3rd Year / Junior
HC: What has been your best experience while attending UIC?
ID: My best experience at UIC so far would be when I took my first sociology class last year. Andy Clarno was the professor and he took the time to make sure the content really stuck with his students. Somehow he managed to bring a very diverse class of over 300 people together. We were able to discuss social issues that affect all of us every day. This was when I also discovered that sociology was my true passion. I had never felt so inspired leaving a class.
Imani and her teammates after a meet.
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HC: I understand that you used to run track, how did you become involved?
ID: After running varsity track all 4 years of high school, I decided that I wanted to give collegiate track a try. There were many people who really supported and even idolized me in high school. I felt that I needed to prove to myself and everyone that I was capable. Originally I came to UIC with the intent of just being a student but after giving it some thought, I decided to join the team last minute. The coaches and the team were very excited to have me. In fact, many of my new teammates knew me as the “Cali girl that runs a 56 in the 400”. Although this was a positive thing, it only added to my nervousness. Everyone had high expectations for me and for the most part I exceeded their expectations. Although I had a very successful first year, I decided it was time to put track behind me. I needed to focus on school and start working to support myself financially. It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make but it was a necessary one. Track will always be in my heart.
HC: What have you learned about yourself? Is there anything that you would do differently if given the chance?
ID: Since I’ve been at UIC I have learned a great deal of things about myself. Coming out of high school I felt like I had already overcame many obstacles. I didn’t anticipate the depression and anxiety I would encounter as a freshman that would continue into my junior year. I had to face the fact that this something I really struggled with. Instead of trying to manage everything on my own, I decided to reach out to a few people on campus. Alex Sanvillier at AAAN (African American Academic Network) served as an important figure in my life. He was someone I could go to when I lacked the drive to get through some really tough semesters. His wisdom gave me the reassurance I needed to carry on. When life became even more overwhelming for me, he suggested that I seek further help at the UIC Counseling Center. I have seen some real progress since I made the decision to swallow my pride and get the help I needed. I don’t have any regrets.
Imani and her beau Queal (yes, he was just our campus celeb!) Aren’t they cute?!
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HC: What adversities have you overcome? School? Personal? (Only answer this if you feel comfortable enough)
ID: Well along with depression and anxiety, I have also dealt with low self-esteem. This really impacted my intimate relationships. The quote, “We accept the love we think we deserve” really resonated with me because I found myself in situations where my body seemed to be the most important factor. It took me awhile to build my self-esteem and see my worth. I knew I wouldn’t to do this if I continued involving myself with these particular types of guys. I needed to discover it on my own. This has been an ongoing journey. It’s one that I feel will never truly end. There’s always room for improvement.
HC: Your personality is so positive! How do you maintain such a positive attitude?
ID: Thank you! I have trouble seeing myself as a positive person most days. I find it easier to be more positive for others than I do for myself. I think I’m my most positive when my passion for helping others really shines through. It’s what keeps me going.
Ready for a night out <3
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HC: What are you looking forward to accomplishing this school year?
ID: I look forward to facing the challenge of becoming a much better student. I was never the “Straight A” student, but I want to prove to myself that I’m capable.
HC: If there is any advice you can share with other young women on our campus what would it be?
ID: The advice I would give to young women would be to embrace the struggles they encounter. Look at them as opportunities to learn and grow. It’s easy to sulk in sadness about what happened. It’s much harder to make that first step towards change. And although it’s a hard step, it’s also a very necessary and rewarding step. Also, it’s okay to be alone sometimes. Use those moments as time to work on yourself. And most importantly, focus more on creating the list of the qualities you want in yourself as opposed to the ones you want in someone else.
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HC:Â Thank you so much for coming forward with your story. You are an inspiration and a role-model for other young women on our campus who have gone through or are going through similar situations. You’re beautiful spirit is contagious to other women who surround themselves with you!