Growing up in Belize, Juleanne Budna knew she wanted to help people. Her dream was to become a nurse or a doctor, but she had no idea what next steps to take. “Where I grew up, you just see [doctors] working in hospitals, but you don’t know how they get there.” She discovered that most doctors in Belize go to Cuba to attend university.
When she was 14, Juleanne moved to North Chicago. She entered high school as a junior shortly before the COVID-19 shutdown. In addition to learning how to navigate remote learning, she tutored her younger sister, who is autistic. Juleanne was disappointed about not having a normal high school experience, and she soon approached North Chicago guidance counselor Ms. Kenney about the possibility of graduating early. “She said I would have to do two semesters of work in one, and I said, ‘Anything because I want to graduate.'”
After graduation, Juleanne’s stepmom made the decision her daughter would go to college. “I was 14 or 15 at the time. I said, ‘Can I take a break?’ and they said, ‘No.'” Her parents decided that College of Lake County was the perfect school for her to begin her career since she would be entering at age 16.
Juleanne attended one semester at CLC before learning she had received the Lancer Warhawk Scholarship. “My parents were over the moon. For my whole life, my dad has always been the one to be there and pay for everything, so this was amazing to him.” The scholarship allowed Juleanne to purchase books and a new computer—something she had never had before. She is also able to save money to learn how to drive and purchase a car.
Juleanne loves the support of the North Chicago staff. “The teachers here actually care about you and what you learn. They’re so helpful and nice.”
When she completes her education, Juleanne wants to work in the United States but may eventually go back to Belize to her family’s land.
If you’d like to support students like Juleanne, consider taking part in our annual Faith on the Fairway golf outing, which raises money for the Warhawk Lancer Scholarship. Not a golfer? Not a problem! You can come for the dinner and silent auction. Register today at www.faithonthefairway.org.