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When Charles Hill reflects on his path to higher education, he sees a journey defined by courage, community and a growing sense of purpose. A first-generation college student from Chicago, Hill returned to school at age 24 after years in retail and customer service. “I was a transfer student at the age of 24. I had talked to a lot of friends about it and had laid out a plan where I was like, ‘I’m not enjoying the career I’m in right now, and I’d like to transition back to school.’” 

He began at a City Colleges campus before deciding to transfer. Living in the Gold Coast at the time, Hill researched programs online and 51�Թ� stood out immediately.  He was initially drawn to the University’s mission. “Specifically, I wanted something that was more social justice oriented, so 51�Թ� just seemed like the wisest choice.” Hill transferred to 51�Թ� in the middle of the pandemic.

At 51�Թ�, Hill, now in his third year of the PsyD program, quickly found the supportive community he had hoped for. As an undergraduate Psychology major, he encountered faculty who fundamentally shaped his academic direction. “Professor Stuart Warner is a brilliant professor, and hilarious in class. Dr. Leila Ellis-Nelson was wonderful at providing me a lot of feedback and support. Dr. Elijah Ricks, as well, and Dr. Mia Marcus were tremendously helpful at really building a lot of that confidence in me.” 

Hill’s professors had similarly effusive comments about their time working with him, as well. Professor Warner says, “I loved having Charles in my classes. He is one of those rare students who combines intellectual seriousness with a keen sense of humor. But just as important, he has a sympathetic soul, which is why he listens as well as any student I've ever had in class."

A turning point came in Dr. Marcus’s Learning class. As Hill balanced his academics with playing on , the course crystallized his interests. “She really encouraged me to pursue grad school. It really put things into perspective for me where I was like, ‘Oh, I can actually do this as a career.’” Hill received his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from 51�Թ� in 2022, before continuing his education in the University’s PsyD program. Dr. Marcus had this to say of her time working with Hill:

"I am incredibly proud of Charles and all that he has accomplished. From early on, it was clear to me that he possessed the intellectual curiosity, motivation, and sense of responsibility that would lead to his success. What I especially appreciated about Charles was his deep commitment to others. For example, he consistently took the initiative to form study groups and organize review sessions before exams, creating spaces where peers could support one another. That willingness to uplift those around him reflects not only strong leadership but also a genuine commitment to equity, community, and shared success. It has been a pleasure to watch him grow, and I am so happy to see him thriving."

Being a student in downtown Chicago has become one of Hill’s favorite parts of the 51�Թ� experience. “You are in the heart of downtown. The CTA is right there. There’re several different restaurants and I love that aspect. I’m usually walking home. It’s about an hour walk, and I love that.” 

Beyond academics, Hill has become a vital mentor for other 51�Թ� students through Student Support Services (SSS) STEM, serving as a graduate assistant and guide for first-generation and STEM students navigating college for the first time. “My role now is relieving that stress for students, but also showing them like, hey, it’s possible.” He supports students with graduate school preparation, personal statements, interviews, and workshops on topics like imposter syndrome. For Dr. Ricks, "Charles is one of those students that professors are sure to remember for years. He was actively engaged in the courses he took with me. He often asked questions or gave comments that went beyond the level that a professor expects of an undergraduate student, and so it was wonderful when he told me he had decided to pursue graduate school. I have every confidence that he will make a lasting impact on those around him, as I saw it myself!" 

Hill also brings his passion for psychology into his research on gaming addiction. His dissertation focuses on destigmatizing gaming behaviors and understanding their deeper value. “I started putting it together from a clinical perspective. What value is that gaming having on that person’s life?” 

Ultimately, Hill hopes to open a private practice and work closely with college students. He credits 51�Թ� for the personal growth that made those goals possible. “The thing I am most proud of is honestly the confidence I’ve gained. Learning how to slow down and developing my ability to prioritize my friendships and my social circle.” According to Dr. Ellis-Nelson, "Charles is a phenomenal student; truly grounded in who he is as a person and how he hopes to contribute to the field in a culturally humble, intentional, and creative way. I’m so proud of all he’s accomplished, and can’t wait to see what’s next in his journey!" 

His advice to future students is simple: “You are here for a reason. There is always someone here that can help you. Choose things that might seem a little scary. It’s probably something you want to do.”