Turning a spark into a tech career
Springfield native Daevion Williams’ love for computer science started when he was young. “I went to Lincoln Magnet Middle School, which is a tech middle school, so that really sparked my interest in technology.”
Years later, that early interest would guide him to Lincoln Land Community College, where he is taking a few final general education courses to build on the associate in applied science degree in computer systems he recently earned.
Choosing LLCC was a practical and personal decision. “It was really cost friendly, and since I live in Springfield, it just felt like the best option,” he says. As a first-generation college student, he appreciated being close to home as he navigated the unfamiliar world of higher education. “I wasn’t prepared to go out of town for a university yet, so staying home and coming here was my best decision.”
Despite already having experience with technology, he quickly discovered how much more there was to learn. “I filled in a lot of gaps I didn’t even know I had,” he explains. “Now I’m able to apply those things in real life. The skills I learned here at LLCC really made a difference.”
Last spring, Daevion attended an LLCC Career Center job and internship fair with several local employers. He connected with the Illinois Office of the Auditor General and began an internship. After earning his associate of applied science degree at LLCC, the office brought him on full time as an information service specialist I.
He spends his days helping employees solve technology issues, using the knowledge and problem-solving strategies he strengthened at LLCC. “It’s amazing, and I love what I do,” he says. He finds motivation in the real-world impact of his work while balancing a full-time job with full-time studies.
The computer systems associate of applied science degree at LLCC prepares students for immediate entry level careers in programming, networking and cybersecurity. Along with building core technical skills, coursework emphasizes communication and essential math needed for success in a wide variety of roles across the computer science field.
Daevion has grown academically and socially. “When coming to college, I kept to myself. Then, one of the advisors, Andre Rye, gave me the advice to start getting involved in things.” Daevion is now an active member of the Black Student Union, serving as the sergeant at arms. “Once I started getting involved, I started talking to a lot of people, networking and building skills.”
His love for computer science and education continues to grow. This fall, Daevion will take the next step in his academic journey by transferring to a university to major in management information systems. And he’s not stopping there. “After I finish my bachelor’s degree, I want to go for my master’s. I want to keep leveling up my skills and getting better at what I do.”
Daevion credits the college’s faculty and staff with helping him grow academically, professionally and personally. “I have had a lot of growth here,” he says. “When things got tough, especially being a first-generation student, the tutoring and support really helped me.”
His advice for future students? “Step out of your comfort zone. Get involved and try new things. College can be an amazing experience.”