McStephen Solomon

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“I am a strong proponent of the political process. I am also a strong advocate of active participation in the process because great things have resulted from the contribution and participation of women and men, young and old, in the deliberate process that is our Democracy.”

  • Program: 2009 Graduate Scholarship Recipient
  • Resides: Hazel Crest, IL
  • Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
  • Age: 39

Transfer Scholar Max Soloman

Biography

PROFILE: Twenty years ago in Nigeria a teenager named McStephen “Max” Solomon faced an overwhelming challenge. Both of his parents were deceased and being the oldest male with six brothers and sisters, Nigerian culture dictated that he was responsible for their upbringing. At age 17 he started working to support his siblings and he hasn’t stopped since, both in his home city of Lagos and then in the United States. Two decades later Max is proud to say his sacrfices have paid off handsomely. Not only is he a college grad who will be going on to study international law, but all his siblings have done very well for themselves and “all have graduated college . . . which would make my parents very proud.” 

 INSPIRATION: The main driving force in his life has been his desire to ensure his siblings have a home and an education. In addition, a teacher at South Suburban College, Herman Stark, is the man Max points to for helping him succeed. “He believed in me before I was able to gather the strength to believe in myself.”
 
ASPIRATION: He wants to become an international lawyer, but his ultimate goal is to become Secretary General of the United Nations.
 
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: His youngest brother is about to begin medical school thanks, in part, to McStephen’s dedication to his family and financial sacrifice. He also gives speeches on health and wellness at various events with organizations with whom he volunteers.
 
ACCOLADES: He has been a constant fixture on the Dean’s List at Depaul and also received the Outstanding Classroom Contribution Award from the same college. 
 
INTERESTING FACT: He’s a member of the Screen Actors Guild and worked in commercials and some television series. He’s also “addicted” to jigsaw puzzles, and, although he doesn’t have a lot of free time, if he’s anywhere near the television remote control he’ll click on “Animal Planet,” his favorite channel.

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