Student of the Month: Layla Lee, 17

A few months ago, we invited community members to nominate a young person for our Student of the Month feature. Layle Lee is the first student we’re profiling in this effort. 

The 17-year-old graduated from North Lawndale College Prep with a 4.3 GPA. After getting into all 10 colleges she applied for, she chose Northeastern Illinois University. 

Layla told us more about herself in an interview last month.

Why did you choose Northeastern? 

It has my major, business administration, and I like the community. I visited twice and it was very nice. I liked the living spaces, the dorms were very nice. It was beautiful. 

What are your career aspirations? 

I want to have my own business — either a daycare center or a fashion store. I want people to express their feelings through clothing.

Why a daycare? 

When I was growing up, I used to babysit my cousins and I got paid to do it. I really like kids. If I see a kid, I’ll give them a dollar or some candy and take them to the store. 

What are some of your favorite hobbies? 

I like going outside with my friends and shopping. I also like going to the movies, writing poetry and listening to music. Some of my favorite artists are Rod Wave, Lil Baby, Alesha Keys and Beyonce. 

Poetry, in particular, relieves me. I used to write poems and say them to my grandmother, who gave me feedback. I let go of my feelings through poetry.

Who’s your biggest role model? 

I consider my mother, Tashawnda Fort, my biggest role model. She’s an entrepreneur herself. She is a licensed esthetician and does full-body waxing. She went to school to do that and stepped her game up. I look up to her. She owns a barbershop called Studio 290, 4313 W. Cermak in Chicago. 

What are some of your favorite things about living on the Westside? 

The food is dope and I love how the community takes care of the youth. I just want the community to know that coming together and working together is not bad. The youth are trying to make a change.