Maximillienne Elliott

After Maximillienne Elliott's first try at college at age 18 was unsuccessful, she settled into a career as an administrative assistant. Although she found excitement outside of her job by writing a nonfiction book that sold 20,000 copies and took her on a national tour, she continued to seek her ultimate purpose. She discovered that goal when she met a human rights attorney from Kosovo and, at age 41, she launched her plan to become a human rights lawyer. After graduating from Northwestern in June 2007 with a degree in political science, Elliott will enter DePaul University College of Law on a scholarship.

"Some people spend their entire lives trying to determine their purpose, while others remain in unfulfilling jobs until they retire. I am very grateful that I have, even at this stage, been able to follow my passion and realize my dream."