Siblings' passion for education

By Victoria Gomez, CAS English Major and Marketing and Communications Student Worker

April 10 marks National Siblings Day, a time to celebrate the unique bond between brothers and sisters! At Governors State University (GovState), several students had the exciting opportunity to navigate university life alongside their family, making their academic experiences even more meaningful.   

For Brock and Logan Krska, GovState has been more than just a university, it’s been a second home. Following in their older brother Colton’s footsteps, the two have carved their own paths while staying connected. “GovState has always been a family affair for the Krska’s,” Logan said. “Our older brother, Colton, was awarded the Presidential Scholarship and started attending GovState in 2018. That sparked my interest. Once I learned about the direct admissions pathway for Physical Therapy, I was hooked.” 

Brock, an Accounting major, admires how his brother Logan has chosen health science. “Growing up, the three of us fought constantly and disliked spending time with each other because that's how brothers are. We’ve been able to get past that stage, and we can watch each other grow as individuals. Not only do I have much love for my brother, but I have respect for the discipline and dedication it has taken for him to reach where he is academically,” Brock said. 

For twin sisters Bryana and Imani Warner, starting at GovState as freshmen students together brought comfort in their journey.  

“I wanted a school that felt more personal and connected, and GovState offered a smaller, more intimate learning environment,” said Imani, a Psychology major, shared. “Being able to attend college alongside my sister made the decision even more special.”  

Bryana, a Business Administration major focusing on Marketing, is actively gaining professional experience through an internship, while Imani is concentrating on her studies. Despite their different commitments, they remain close. “We even live together in the same dorm—it’s just the two of us,” Bryana said.  

Victoria and Eunice Gomez share a unique relationship with GovState, they never attended at the same time, but both transferred as part of the Dual Degree Program (DDP). Eunice Gomez graduated with a B.A. in Psychology in 2022.  

GovState has provided opportunities for both academic and leadership growth. “Victoria and I have had such similar experiences that it feels like we’re basically twins. We both love learning, growing academically, and staying organized. Advocacy has been a big part of our journey,” Eunice said. 

Victoria started in Fall 2024 and is currently an English major student and President of Reading Jaguars, a student club. “GovState has offered me many opportunities to be involved in the community and to become an even stronger leader!” Victoria said. 

Eunice expressed her admiration for her sister, adding, “I am incredibly proud of the young woman she has become. Her compassion drives her to advocate for students who need a voice. I have no doubt she’ll continue to develop into an even stronger leader, all with the help of the GovState community.” 

Sean and Colin O’Brien both started at GovState in Fall 2024, but Sean transferred as part of DDP and Colin began as a freshman, but they both represent GovState athletics in the track and cross-country teams.  

As student-athletes, the brothers share the challenges and rewards of balancing sports and academics. “We’re involved in campus life through Athletics, the Student Activities Council and the Male Success Initiative program,” Sean said. “It’s nice to have someone close who is going through a similar experience. We both work very hard academically, athletically, and in the Governors State University community.”  

For these GovState students and alumna, National Siblings Day isn’t just about celebrating family, it’s about recognizing the people who challenge, encourage, and inspire them every day. Whether through academic excellence, leadership, or simply being a support system, these GovState siblings prove that university is better when experienced together!