Jasie Kelch

Jasie has made it her mission to support others.

At only 24 years old, Jasie Kelch has already worn many hats—student, army specialist, model, mentor, and self-published author. And despite a busy schedule of her own, juggling classes, work and more, Jasie has made it her mission to support others.

As the author of two books, those efforts are often reflected through her writing. One of her publications, The Great Big Book of Positivity For Women: An Illustrated Self-Help Book, offers women support to overcome their struggles. The other, Sistas of Solstice, is an illustrated book about self-exploration, family, and magic that features five young African American sisters as they come to witchhood.

Now, the South Shore resident is hitting the books herself as a political science student at two City Colleges of Chicago: Truman College, which is considered a top military-friendly school, and Daley College. Her journey to CCC began after spending a year and a half as a member of the Illinois Army National Guard, where Jasie said she gained a lot, including life-long friends and a sense of resiliency that has supported her studies.

Being a member of the military also provided Jasie with the opportunity to attend college for free, something she wasn’t sure she would do despite her love of learning. The Veteran’s Affairs team at City Colleges helped Jasie register and has provided continued support throughout her educational journey. She’s also utilized the services of programs like TRiO, which helps first-generation college students like her, among other groups, achieve a college education.

After Jasie graduates in the fall of this year with her associate degree, she plans to continue her education and pursue a law degree. She’s working with her counselor to align her classes with those at UIC to ensure a smooth transition.

As the first in her family to attend college, Jasie is focused on breaking a generational cycle of poverty. Attending City Colleges, she said, has put her on the path to a stable financial future.