For Gabriela Guerra, the University of Illinois experience was about more than earning a degree—it was about learning to embrace the journey, building meaningful friendships, and finding a community that felt like home.
One of the most important lessons Gabriela learned during her time at Illinois was that things do not always go exactly as planned, and that is okay. Instead of focusing solely on the outcome, she learned to appreciate the journey and the growth that comes with it.
As a military-connected student transitioning from deployment back to full-time student life, having a strong support system made all the difference. Gabriela found that support at the Chez Veterans Center (CVC). The center provided valuable resources, a welcoming environment, and a community of people navigating similar experiences. During a time of major transition, the CVC became a place where she felt supported, connected, and at home.
Some of Gabriela’s favorite memories come from her first year at the center, where she formed friendships that continue to this day. Whether it was spending time together between classes or organizing friendly Nerf gun battles around the center, those shared experiences created lasting bonds and made the CVC a special part of her Illinois journey.
For future military-connected students, Gabriela’s advice is simple: get connected with the Chez Veterans Center. She encourages students to take advantage of the center’s resources, supportive staff, and welcoming community.
If she could share one message with her first-semester self, it would be: “Be patient with yourself—it’ll all work out in the end.”
After graduation, Gabriela plans to pursue a career in law enforcement, continuing her commitment to service and bringing the skills and experiences she gained at Illinois into the next chapter of her professional journey.
Gabriela’s story is a reminder that success is not always about following a perfect plan. Sometimes, it comes from trusting the process, finding your community, and appreciating the journey along the way.
