Student Profile: Norma Dennison (Downers Grove, Ill.)

Norma is a senior from Glenbard South

OES: This is your second year with OES. Are there any differences this year?

ND: I feel less stress this year. I know how the program works and what to expect. Plus I only have four classes I need to finish before I graduate.

OES: Why is it important for you to graduate early?

ND: It will give me a chance to get a better job or start college right away. I don’t want to take a break, I just want to keep going.

OES: So what do you plan on doing?

ND: I’m going to enroll at C.O.D. (College of DuPage) and work towards becoming a phlebotomist. When I’m finished with that I would like to take more classes and get a higher degree.

OES: Why has Ombudsman been a good fit for you?

ND: I go to school, work full time and take care of my baby. I could never do all that if I were at my district school.

OES: You sound very motivated.

ND: I am. I want to provide my daughter with everything she needs.

OES: Do you have a favorite class this year?

ND: Yes, Consumer Education. It has taught me things I will need to know. It is important and interesting.

OES: What would you tell a student who was about to enroll at Ombudsman for the first time?

ND: I’d tell them this is a good place to be. It was good for me. I could work at my own pace but it also gave me time to work and be with my daughter.