Advisee Spotlight: Bianca Cruz

Bianca Cruz, a first-generation student at Illinois State University, knows firsthand how powerful a strong network can be when exploring career opportunities. Through the CareerSpring Network, Bianca has had the opportunity to connect with industry professionals, receive meaningful career guidance, and find ways to give back by supporting fellow FGLI students on similar journeys as an Ambassador.

CareerSpring has been instrumental in Bianca’s journey. As someone blazing a path without a clear roadmap, she understood the unique challenges FGLI students face when pursuing personal and professional goals. She shared, “Pursuing personal and professional goals with limited direction presents challenges, however, because of CareerSpring’s evolving Platform, I have been able to walk through doors of opportunity…while being guided by amazing mentors and role models.”

As an Ambassador, she has represented CareerSpring at events such as Lake Forest College’s Business, Finance, and Data Science Employer Showcase. It was at this very event that Bianca secured a Human Resources Intern role through networking. Her preparation, mindset, and proactive approach—shaped in part by her CareerSpring experience—helped her succeed. Now, Bianca encourages others to do the same:

“We just have to be willing to put in the effort to seek [opportunities] out and fully leverage the resources available to us. No matter where we come from, we’re part of a national network of motivated individuals committed to making a difference in the lives of first-generation college students.”

CareerSpring is here to support FGLI students and graduates—providing a Platform to learn, explore, connect, and grow. With a national Network of professionals and a dedicated team ready to help, you don’t have to navigate your career journey alone.

To access our resources, request to join our Career Platform here. If you’re interested in becoming a Partner or volunteering, let us know here!