University of Illinois
Sharing the Real UIUC Experience
Hey! I’m Ishba, a first-year student at UIUC studying Information Science and Business. I’m passionate about tech, love connecting with people, and always down to help others navigate college life. Whether it’s finding the best study spots or figuring out how to balance classes and fun, I’ve got your back at UIUC.
About me
- GenderFemale
- Current academic yearFreshman
- Age16
- Admission typeAdmitted as a freshman
- Academic focusComputer Science
- Personality typeExtroverted
- College experience ratingAmazing
Tour type
- Campus tour
- Video chat
Hometown
Chicago, IL, USA
Major(s)
Information Science, Business
Minor(s)
Considering Computer Science
Extracurriculars activities
- Greek life
- Club/Organization
- Job/Internship
- ROTC
- NCAA varsity sport
- Recreational sport
- Student government
- Community service
- Religious/Cultural group
- Art/Music/Performance
- Study abroad
- Other
Clubs, organizations & involvement
-Data Science Club – Active member attending weekly workshops and collaborating on campus-wide data challenges to explore ethical uses of AI and machine learning. -Rewriting the Code Fellow – Participated in virtual tech-focused mentorship sessions with female-identifying students across the country, focusing on equity in the tech workforce. -UIUC Housing Office – Student Intern – Accepted for this year's fall move-in to help with orientation prep and administrative work. -llinois Muslim Student Association – Helped organize interfaith dialogues and Eid celebrations, building cultural connections on campus. -Community STEM Outreach – Volunteered in local Urbana middle schools to lead beginner-friendly Python sessions and encourage girls in tech.
Housing experience
- Dorm
- Off-campus house or apartment
- Fraternity or sorority house
- Home (Commuter)
- Other
Describe your college experience
Coming from a small high school in Chicago, adjusting to the scale of UIUC was a big shift—but it’s been one of the most rewarding experiences. From coding workshops in Siebel to late-night boba runs on Green Street, I’ve found a place that constantly pushes me to grow. Being part of campus clubs and the STEM community has helped me build confidence, find my people, and feel at home here.
Tip for future students
Don’t wait to get involved—join clubs early, go to free events, and talk to professors (they’re nicer than you think!).
Favorite class
Information Science 101—It made me realize how tech connects with society and helped me explore real-world applications.
Career goals
I hope to use data science to build tools that solve problems in under-resourced communities and eventually launch a tech nonprofit or startup focused on education equity.
Ideal way to spend a free night
Relaxing with music, catching up on a coding project, or getting boba with friends on Green Street.
High school or secondary school
Chicago Math and Science Academy, Chicago, IL
Meeting point
Alma Mater Statue on the University of Illinois campus
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