McKinzie Tarbox of Ottawa has been named winner of the 2026 Paul Simon Student Essay Contest at Illinois Valley Community College. In her essay, Tarbox shared her journey of returning to college after working as a certified nursing assistant and how IVCC transformed her self-confidence and sense of purpose. A first-generation college student, Tarbox joined the TRIO program, took on leadership roles, and became a peer mentor, supporting others facing similar uncertainties. She credits faculty encouragement for her growth. Tarbox will read her essay at the upcoming IVCC Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 16th, and her work advances to a statewide competition, reflecting her commitment to inspiring fellow students. Tarbox’s bold steps continue as she prepares to study abroad in Costa Rica with IVCC’s international program.
“I was nervous and convinced that I was behind. Sitting in classrooms again felt intimidating, and I often questioned whether I truly belonged. But having the opportunity to get involved at IVCC changed everything. If there is one thing this experience has taught me, it is that you are not behind. You are becoming,” Tarbox wrote in her winning essay for the 2026 Paul Simon Student Essay Contest.
Her journey to become an occupational therapist began at IVCC. “I’m a first-generation college student, so IVCC felt less intimidating. In just one semester at IVCC, my life began to change in ways I never expected.”
“Each opportunity created a space for me to grow and feel supported by the faculty who saw potential in me. Their encouragement gave me the courage to keep pushing forward. As a peer mentor, I support other students who feel the same insecurities and fears that I felt.”
“To think that just months prior, I was afraid to raise my hand in class and now I was speaking to crowds! IVCC has shaped my confidence, strengthened my voice, and helped me discover who I am capable of becoming. The moment you choose to show up, even when you have doubts, is the moment your life begins to change. Now I step forward, I speak up, and I help others see that they belong here too.”