Senior Learning & Education Studies Marisol Jimenez was awarded Oustanding Oral Presentation at the 2019 Illinois Undergraduate Research Symposium for her research on the reform acts in Chicago from 1980 to 2015 and their push for the standarization and accountability movement. Her research was recognized for being high quality as well as presented effectively.
Marisol has also researchd how the accountability movement and renaissance 2010 have moved the public education system towards a neoliberal movement, opening a private market for schools. She said that currently, she is examing the charter expansion movement throughout the city and its participation towards the gentrification of black and brown communities.
This weekend Marisol will walk across the stage and recieve her undergraduate degree in LES; however, her research won't stop there. Marisol will join us back on campus next fall where she will start her EPOL Ph.D. program for social science and education policy.
"This school has given me many opportunities to grow and I look forward to continuing my professional and academic development at the graduate level."
Marisol says that her favorite college memories all center around the friends and mentors that she made while on campus.
"Finding a supportive community as a first generation college student was crucial to my success as an undergraduate student. I look forward to working with other first generation college students next fall and working to support and guide them through their undergraduate career."
Help us celebrate Marisol and the rest of our #ILLINOIS2019 graduates this weekend! Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes photos and watch live this Saturday at 1 p.m. here.
