Faculty Stories: Amy Elston

Faculty Stories: Amy Elston


Program: Continuing Education

Amy Elston enjoys helping students attain their goals. And working with adult students is what drew her to the Adult Basic Education/High School Equivalency program.

“To me, teaching is not just a career but a vocation,” she said. “I cannot imagine doing anything else. Teaching gives me the opportunity to impact not only individuals but also our community. It offers opportunities to help those who feel lost or stuck achieve more, be more and do more. Teaching allows me to help students attain academic success, which opens doors to better employment and careers paths.”

In addition to teaching at College of DuPage, Elston assists in training teachers in the Illinois Language Arts Content Standards through the Central Illinois Adult Education Service Center.

While she helps students improve their academics, Elston wants to inspire students to go beyond. In return, they inspire her. 

“I hope to guide students in identifying their strengths and talents. I want students to see and set potential goals that previously they may never have thought they could attain,” she said. “Many of my students come from challenging backgrounds, and others are still in challenging situations. They are working, raising families and overcoming personal struggles, yet they come to class and seize the opportunity to learn and improve their lives.

“To see students go from quiet and unsure learners to individuals who speak out and share what they are learning is inspiring. When a student comes in and shares an experience which involves a practical application from something they learned in class, that is inspiring. My students inspire me every day!”

Learn more about the ABE/HSE programs at College of DuPage

Learn more about Continuing Education at College of DuPage