Meet Aubrey Hebenstreint, a dedicated communication major at Lake land College who will graduate with her associate’s degree this December. Having taken dual credits during high school, Aubrey found her place at Lake land thanks to the campus’s warm and welcoming environment. “What drew me to Lake land was the friendliness and the networking opportunities. I loved the diversity and the sense of belonging here,” she shared.
Aubrey’s journey with the Student Government Association (SGA) began after being inspired by a friend who had a rewarding experience in the organization. “Once I joined, I met Lisa and Hayley, two of the best advisors I’ve ever had,” Aubrey recalled. Joining SGA allowed her to connect with new friends, expand her network, and make a meaningful impact on campus. Through SGA, she also learned about available scholarships that support student success.
Outside of SGA, Aubrey is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys walking her dog and indulging in her love for baking. She is also actively involved in other organizations, such as Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) and the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS).
As the SGA treasurer, Aubrey works closely with her peers to manage budgets and ensure proper resource allocation for students’ needs. “I go over expenses with Lisa and help budget to ensure we have everything we need,” she explained. One of her recent projects involved organizing a toy drive to support the community—a heartfelt initiative she believes makes a lasting impact.
Reflecting on her time in SGA, Aubrey emphasized the connections and friendships she has made. “The most rewarding part of being in SGA is the lifelong friendships and the leadership skills I have gained,” she said. She also highlighted SGA’s role in improving student life on campus by bridging the gap between faculty and students. “SGA’s main goal is to ensure students have the best experience possible while ensuring that faculty and student voices are equally heard.”
Balancing her responsibilities hasn’t been without its challenges. Aubrey has learned to manage her time effectively between SGA projects, homework, and a part-time job. Despite the demands, she views her experience as transformative. “Because of SGA, I found the courage to take chances and pursue opportunities I never imagined,” she said. One of those opportunities included an internship with the Illinois Community College Board, which she credits to her involvement in SGA.
Aubrey has one advice for students considering joining SGA: “Take the chance—it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. SGA not only gave me dreams but also helped me achieve them. It will open doors, build connections, and provide skills that will benefit you both in school and your future career.”
As she prepares for graduation, Aubrey looks forward to applying the skills and experiences she gained at Lake Land College to her future endeavors. Her story is an inspiring reminder of the lasting impact of leadership and community engagement.
