Francesca Frost, Graphic Design studentA Determined Start Facing health challenges that left her uncertain about her future, Francesca was determined to push forward. She didn’t know if college would be possible due to her chronic illness. Despite setbacks, she pursued her education and started her academic career at Oakton.
“I was familiar with Oakton because my brothers went there, so I decided to start there as well, originally planning to study biomedical engineering. I took a biology class at Oakton and started to question if a career in STEM was for me. Initially I saw STEM as a way to bring stability to my life, especially after my world was turned upside down by my chronic illness. After getting sick and taking the biology class at Oakton, I stepped back and asked myself, ‘What if I don’t pursue a career in STEM? What if I try something different?’”
Pivoting to Passion During her time at Oakton, Francesca discovered a passion for computer animation and shifted her career goals. After transferring to complete her bachelor’s degree, she returned to Oakton to further her education and skills.
“My mom, who worked in computers, saw my love for technology and art and suggested animation. After researching and building a portfolio, I applied to Columbia College Chicago’s computer animation program and was accepted. I assumed I would find entry-level jobs after graduating, but learned most local computer animation jobs aren’t entry-level. Wanting to stay close to my family, I looked for jobs related to animation and found many entry-level positions focused on graphic design. I saw this as a chance to improve my portfolio, which led me back to Oakton to pursue an associate degree in graphic design.”
Building Community and Skills After returning to Oakton in 2021, Francesca became heavily involved in campus life, taking on pivotal roles that reflected her growing leadership and passion. She became a student worker for the B.L.A.C.K. Student Success Program (BSSP), while also stepping into leadership positions in both the Black Student Union and the crochet club.
“The support I’ve found at Oakton has helped me every step of the way. As an Oakton student this time around, I’ve discovered even more opportunities through organizations on campus, especially BSSP. I encourage all Black students to join, even if you’re busy or not that social. BSSP helped me network, meet new people and connect with professionals in my field. Now I have a community I can turn to for advice and support. As a BSSP student employee, I’ve had the chance to design posters, flyers, plan events and edit the newsletter, which has really boosted my portfolio and put what I’m learning in class to use.”
Overcoming Challenges, Pursuing Dreams With her sights set on a future in animation, she is actively building on the solid foundation she has created through her academic and campus involvement.
“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. I won’t say it’s going to get better because life happens, but you will get through it. Just keep figuring it out and remember that your best is enough. I manage my illness every day while working toward my goals. My graphic design degree will help me get closer to my long-term goal of a career in computer animation, and one day I’ll illustrate my own web comic.”
