Tracy Drost, '02 BA

Serving as the current Mrs. Illinois America 2025 has given me the opportunity to connect with people and communities across Illinois, and it has also reminded me how much my time at Arizona State University shaped the person I have become. Leaving the state I was born and raised in, Illinois, to attend school in Arizona was the first time I had truly been on my own and so far from home. Moving across the country pushed me to become more independent, confident, and open to new perspectives. My time at ASU challenged me to grow in ways I never expected, and I genuinely loved my years there. Many of my best memories came from the friendships, experiences, and adventures that made my time at ASU so unforgettable.

I was also a member of Alpha Phi during my time at ASU, which added another layer of friendship and connection to my college experience. I also took advantage of ASU's study abroad program and studied at the College of Bermuda, an experience that further expanded my perspective and love for exploring new places and cultures. Some of the memories that stand out most are participating in Greek philanthropy events, spending time with friends, traveling and exploring places I had never been before, and taking part in traditions like painting the "A" on the mountain. Those moments instantly take me back to such an exciting and formative time in my life.

More than anything, ASU helped me grow as a person. Being far from home taught me independence and adaptability, qualities that continue to shape the way I approach life today.

Over the past year as Mrs. Illinois America, I've had the privilege of supporting more than 100 nonprofit and community organizations across Illinois in an effort to highlight the incredible work being done throughout the state and encourage young people and families to become more involved themselves. The confidence and resilience I developed during my time at ASU helped prepare me to step into this role without any prior pageant experience and connect with so many different people along the way.

One of the highlights of this year was supporting the Pat Tillman Foundation and participating in the ASU Alumni Chicago Run. As a Sun Devil now living back in Chicagoland, it was especially meaningful to support a cause so closely tied to ASU while reconnecting with fellow alumni and representing Illinois. It reminded me that even though I built my life in Illinois, a part of me will always feel connected to ASU and the Sun Devil community.

When I think about my time at ASU, I think about friendship, independence, new experiences, and discovering who I was becoming and still am today. ASU gave me a strong foundation to continue learning, growing, and taking chances on opportunities that challenge me. I will always be grateful for that experience and proud to call myself a Sun Devil.