Laila Atra-Yassin transferred to Governors State University as part of the Dual Degree Program from Joliet Junior College. She received an associate's degree in fine arts. She is currently a Dual Degree Program Honors Scholarship Recipient, Great Lakes Bank Scholarship recipient, Alumni Association Endowed Scholarship Honoring Rosemary Hulett Recipient, Elizabeth Cada Occupational Therapy Scholarship recipient, Great Lakes Bank Scholarship recipient. She is a proud member of the GovState Honors College. She plans to graduate in May 2023 with her bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Ethics. Laila is a true scholar, having earned a 3.96 grade point average.
Laila enjoys volunteering with Sharefest Will County. Sharefest is a nonprofit organization that delivers groceries to Will county's needy individuals. She has also volunteered as a peer buddy at the Muhsen nonprofit organization which serves children and adults with intellectual, physical, or mental disabilities. Laila volunteers daily as a translator/tutor for international fourth graders. Her support was greatly needed because the student had severe literacy challenges at the beginning of the school year.
By the end of the school year, he could read on grade level. Last spring Laila was asked to speak at her former high school to junior and senior AP English classes. She spoke about ableism and how parents of special needs children could combat this challenge. This experience inspired her to establish an alumni mentorship program at the high school where volunteers dedicate their time to sharing their college experience and careers, proofreading college essays, helping with coursework, and providing social/emotional support.
Laila Atra-Yassin serves as the 2023 Student Laureate representative for Governors State University. Congratulations, Laila!