When deciding where to attend college, Victor Ike, now a senior majoring in psychology and minoring in criminology, chose Marquette University for its resources, values, and focus on service to the Milwaukee community.

“I had the opportunity to either attend a public institution or Marquette,” Victor said. “Marquette’s commitment to the community was ultimately why I made the decision I did.”

Financial aid, including the Wisconsin Grant and institutional aid from Marquette, helped Victor to attend the university that was the best fit for him.

Throughout his time at Marquette, Victor has found numerous opportunities to engage with the local community. He has been involved with the African Student Association, Black Student Council, National Association of the Advancement of Colored People, and the Marquette University Alumni Association.

Victor is also a participant in the Educational Opportunity Program, a student support services program that has assisted more than 1,800 first-generation college students and students from low-income families obtain a college education since 1969. Victor credits EOP for much of his academic and personal success during his time at Marquette.

For Victor, failure is not an option. As a first-generation college student from Milwaukee, he holds himself to a high standard. “I cannot allow myself to become a statistic of failure,” he said.

His education has inspired him to further pursue a law degree after graduation. “I have high hopes of becoming a criminal defense attorney,” said Victor. He was accepted into the Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program, which prepares students for graduate school. During the academic year, students attend monthly seminars, meet visiting scholars, and participate in student and professional conferences. During the summer, McNair students participate in the Summer Research Internship Program (SRIP), a paid research internship which provides an in-depth research experience, working one-to-one with a faculty mentor, and the opportunity to network with other undergraduates from across the nation.

His first goal, though, is making his family proud. “I can’t wait to see the joy on my parents’ faces as their first son graduates from college.”