Saadia Ali Aschemann’s journey to working with children took several turns before she found a career focused on helping young people. From originally considering law school to working in an elementary school, her experiences helped shape the path that eventually brought her to Quincy University.

Born in St. Charles, Missouri, Saadia moved to Quincy with her parents, who came to the area for work. She attended Quincy High School before continuing her education at George Mason University. At the time, she considered going to law school, but her future would eventually take a different direction.

After returning to school in Springfield, Illinois to get her masters degree, she began working with children. The experience helped her discover a professional path that allowed her to support young people and contribute to their development.

Family also played an important role in her journey. In 1988, she had her first son, and as her children grew older, she began dedicating more time to her career and working more hours around other kids.

Before coming to Quincy University, Aschemann worked at Lincoln-Douglas Elementary School. Her time there helped strengthen her interest in working with children, especially those who might not always receive the attention they need.

For Aschemann, working with children was about more than simply being in a school. It was an opportunity to recognize students as individuals and help those who might otherwise be overlooked. Her experiences in education helped shape her interest in making a difference in young people’s lives.

Although she originally considered pursuing a career in law, her experiences eventually led her toward a different kind of work. Each stage of her life, including her education, raising a family and working in an elementary school, contributed to the career she pursued.

Aschemann’s journey also brought her back to the Quincy community, where she had spent part of her childhood and attended high school. The experiences she gained along the way helped prepare her for her work at Quincy University.

Her story shows how career goals can change as people gain new experiences and discover what matters most to them.

Through her work, Aschemann has focused on the importance of making sure students feel seen, supported and encouraged. Her path demonstrates that sometimes a career is not about following the original plan, but about finding work that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others.