"The I-LEAP program is certainly one of a kind. The I-LEAP staff encourages me to set high academic standards and to become involved within the community and university. My fellow I-LEAP scholars and the I-LEAP staff have truly taken my college experience to another level."
—Angi Mitas, Kinesiology

"Juggling so many meetings, activities, and deadlines with classes, is virtually impossible without the support from I-LEAP. The insight given by our fellow peers and the I-LEAP staff help us through our personal and professional goals and enrich our college stay."
—Debbie Liu, Community Health

"When I first arrived to the University of Illinois I had a lot of worries on my mind, but thanks to the I-LEAP program I felt much more at ease knowing I had a support group willing to lend me a hand when I most needed it. My successes at Illinoisare without a doubt a product of the collaboration between the I-LEAP staff and all of the I-LEAP scholars. The I-LEAP Program is much more than an enrichment and leadership program, it's a family that grows with every passing day."
—Jose Espinoza, Kinesiology

"My meetings with my academic skills specialist helped me acclimate to my new environment in college. She was someone I was comfortable talking to if I had questions or concerns regarding my classes or anything here at Illinois."
—Melissa Pedraza, Kinesiology

"With the help from the Mannie L. Jackson Illinois Academic Enrichment Leadership Program and the academic skill specialists, students do not feel like the little fish in the big ocean anymore, but rather a big fish making their way to the top."
—Christa Jalali, Speech and Hearing Science

"Through the help of my academic coach and now with renewed confidence in myself, I am a believer. I am grateful for the Mannie L. Jackson Illinois Academic Enrichment and Leadership Program; it is program that really does change a student's mindset and outlook."
—Vernon Cail, Kinesiology