A New Chapter
When Victoria Calderon ’28 first visited Elmhurst University, she wasn’t planning to enroll just yet. A surprise campus visit with her mom during her senior year of high school introduced her to a place that felt welcoming—but smaller than she expected. After she started her college journey at Morton College in Cicero, however, Elmhurst remained on her radar.
An Elmhurst admission counselor continued to check in, inviting her to open houses and a private tour, making sure Calderon always felt seen and supported. But what ultimately solidified her decision to transfer to Elmhurst to continue the next chapter of her education was the people. “When I saw the student ambassadors, I thought they were really welcoming,” she says. “They actually inspired me to become a student ambassador—and now I am one.”
Finding Community
An early childhood education major, Calderon has found that Elmhurst’s student-centered learning environment encourages limitless thinking while offering the kind of wraparound support that helps students thrive.
And the small size that she was initially wary of has proven to be a big advantage. Her first semester on campus, she discovered a community that feels less like an educational institution and more like a second family, with caring classmates and engaged faculty and staff.
“I would describe Elmhurst as very friendly and very community-based,” she says. “People go out of their way to make you feel included. They actually want to talk to you, and that makes a huge difference.”
Diving Into Campus Life
Living on campus has played a key role in her experience. Although her hometown of Berwyn is nearby, Calderon’s parents encouraged her to live on campus and immerse herself in student life. She chose to live in Cureton Hall, where she quickly bonded with her roommate—another transfer student. Together, they attended campus events, explored student activities, and even watched a football game from their dorm’s skybox view.
Beyond residence life, Calderon is involved in clubs and other activities. In addition to working for the Office of Admission as a student ambassador, she is an event coordinator for Karaoke Club, one of her favorite creative outlets. Her go-to karaoke song? “You Belong with Me” by Taylor Swift. The club frequently collaborates with other organizations, including Best Buddies and the Elmhurst Latin Dance Troupe, helping bring students together through fun, inclusive events.
Calderon is also a regional officer for the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, an organization for high-achieving community college students. She previously served as vice president of Morton College’s chapter and earned a PTK scholarship to attend Elmhurst—an achievement she is especially proud of. “PTK helps with leadership skills, building your resume and making connections, and then there are plenty of opportunities for scholarships as well,” she says. “I received a scholarship that helped make it possible for me to come to Elmhurst.”
Learning to Persevere
Calderon credits Elmhurst’s supportive environment with helping her persevere through challenges. Last term was particularly difficult, both academically and mentally, but she found reassurance in accessible resources such as free counseling sessions and academic support for a challenging math course.
“I’ve learned to just keep going,” she says. “At the end of the day, it’s not worth stressing over everything—you just keep moving.”
Her passion for early childhood education was sparked while working as a summer camp counselor, where she discovered she enjoyed teaching younger children. “The most rewarding thing is seeing their smiles when they accomplish something—even something small,” she says. “I love encouraging them and watching them learn.”
One of her favorite classes so far has been Cross-Cultural Studies in Teaching English Language Learners, taught by Professor Jeanne White. It has reinforced her desire to work in inclusive educational settings. “[Professor White] is so bubbly and full of energy—it makes you feel awake and excited to learn,” Calderon says.
When she’s not studying or orchestrating events, Calderon enjoys reading (especially the Bridgerton book series and historical nonfiction), playing Pokémon on her Nintendo 3DS, and spending time at The Roost or Kranz Forum. Off campus, she loves visiting bookstores or grabbing acai bowls with friends.
Exploring Options
Looking ahead, Calderon hopes to teach preschool or kindergarten and may pursue a master’s degree. She’s also open to exploring event planning, a skill she’s developed through her leadership roles.
Exploring new interests and getting involved on campus have made a positive impact on Calderon, so her advice for prospective students—especially transfers—is simple but heartfelt: “Get involved in at least one club. If you don’t, you’ll regret it.”
At Elmhurst, Calderon has found more than a place to earn a degree. She’s found a community that builds confidence, leadership and a sense of belonging—helping her move forward with purpose and excitement for the future.
Go Far. Do Well. Visit elmhurst.edu/Admission to take the first step toward your future.