EIU Media Relations

DuQuoin native’s EIU connection inspires a future in mathematics education

Isabele Jones one of many legacy students at EIU to continue family traditions of EIU, outcomes, opportunities

(Charleston, IL) – For Isabele Jones, Eastern Illinois University already feels a little like home.

The DuQuoin, Illinois, native and DuQuoin High School senior plans to join the EIU community in Fall 2027, where she intends to study mathematics through the University’s Honors College and pursue teacher licensure with a middle school endorsement.

Isabele’s path to EIU is influenced in part by someone who knows the University well: her father, Kevin.

“My dad went to EIU and he absolutely loved it,” Isabele said. But it was her own visit to campus last November that confirmed EIU could be the right fit for her, too.

“When I toured the campus last November, it just felt like home,” she said.

Isabele is currently completing both her high school studies and coursework at John A. Logan College, with anticipated graduation from both in May 2027. She has spent her high school years challenging herself academically, taking honors courses and working toward a goal she established when she first entered high school: Becoming valedictorian of her graduating class. She remains on track to achieve that goal.

Her commitment to academics has also shaped the friendships she has built throughout high school. Because she has taken many of the same honors courses as her classmates, Isabele said she has developed strong connections with the students who have shared that academic journey. That makes the prospect of joining EIU’s Honors College particularly meaningful.

“When I found out I was accepted into EIU’s Honor College, I was so excited that I couldn’t contain myself!” she said. “Ever since I visited EIU and learned about the Honors College, it has been my dream to be a part of it.”

Isabele said EIU’s campus layout was another factor that helped distinguish the University from other colleges she considered. She appreciated how easily students can travel between the residence halls and academic buildings without having to drive to class. She also valued the welcoming atmosphere she encountered during her visit.

“All the faculty members and professors that I met there were so nice, helpful, and welcoming,” she said.

That welcoming experience continued after her visit. When Isabele had a question about EIU’s Mathematics and Computer Science program, she found an email address for Marshall Lassak on a program flyer and reached out. Lassak responded quickly and provided the information she was seeking, giving her another positive impression of the University.

At EIU, Isabele plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with teacher licensure and a middle school endorsement. Her goal is to become a math teacher, potentially teaching at the middle or high school level after graduation.

Outside the classroom, Isabele enjoys softball, volleyball, exercise and weightlifting, as well as spending time with her family. Her interest in fitness comes with another EIU family connection of its own: Her father was named Mr. EIU in a bodybuilding competition during his time at the University.

Isabele also enjoys a wide variety of music, with favorites ranging from Taylor Swift and Elvis Presley to Madonna, Shakira, ABBA and Michael Jackson.

As she looks toward Fall 2027,
Isabele is excited about becoming a Panther
and continuing in the kind of close
academic community she experienced
throughout high school.

For Isabele, that feeling began with a campus visit and a family connection. It has grown into a clear vision for her future — one that starts at EIU and, ultimately, leads toward a classroom where she can share her passion for mathematics with the next generation.

For students considering a transfer from a community college or attending EIU directly out of high school, EIU continues to help students discover their purpose and graduate, prepared to make an impact in their professions and communities.

Learn More About Eastern Illinois University
Students and families interested in Eastern Illinois University have several opportunities to experience everything Eastern has to offer by attending one of EIU’s upcoming Open House events:

• Fall 2026 Daily Campus Tours are offered Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Each visit includes a guided walking tour, an opportunity to explore a residence hall and an informational presentation. Visits also can be personalized through connections with faculty in an academic area, the Honors College, campus resources or an EIU admissions counselor.
• For prospective transfer students, Fall 2026 Transfer-Specific Tours are offered Fridays from 9 to 11 a.m. These visits include a campus walking tour, including a residence hall, and a meeting with an EIU admissions counselor.
• Select Saturday Visits are also available during the fall. These visits include an admissions presentation and a walking tour of campus.
• For prospective Panthers unable to travel to Charleston, EIU offers virtual counselor meetings that allow prospective students to connect with an admissions counselor for a virtual meeting and get answers to any questions they may have about EIU.
• A self-guided campus tour provides another flexible option. Prospective students can explore campus at their own pace and, by registering in advance, may meet individually with an admissions counselor. The self-guided experience also includes a tour folder, T-shirt and bottled water.

EIU encourages prospective students and families who cannot find a scheduled visit that fits their needs to contact the Admissions team, and EIU’s admissions staff will work directly with families to identify a visit opportunity that fits their schedules.

To explore visit options and register for an EIU campus experience, visit eiu.edu/admissions. Questions about campus visits can be directed to the Office of Admissions at (217) 581-2224 or via email at visiteiu@eiu.edu.

EIU prepares students to accomplish their life goals through a combination of quality academics, personal relationships, and both on-campus and online learning opportunities. For more information about Eastern Illinois University, including its broad array of academic and career readiness programs, community-based services and opportunities, visit Eastern Illinois University or call EIU’s public information office at (217) 581-7400.