Olivia Spadlowski received an unexpected birthday gift this year being named a finalist in the Community College Week and National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Student Essay Contest.
 

The Carol Stream resident found out on her 20th birthday that her essay will be pushed in one of NISODs monthly e-newsletter over the next year. She was one of more than 700 students to enter the contest, which asked writers to describe their most rewarding learning experience with a faculty, staff or administrator.
 

I was really honored because Dr. (Chikako) Kumamoto pulled me aside and asked me to enter. I was taking a short fiction class and the feedback I received was amazing, Spadlowski said. She was really excited by my work and that meant a lot to me.
 

Kumamoto described Spadlowski as an ideal honors student scholar who is intellectually empowering and ethically honorable.
 

She is not only a rigorous yet passionately searching learner, but also an individual infused with genuine fellow-feelings and considerations, Kumamoto said.
 

The Glenbard North High School graduate said shes had a positive experience at College of DuPage and is grateful for the opportunities had at the College, including enrolling in COD Honors Program, which she completed.
 

I graduated early from high school and didnt want to go to a four-year school, Spadlowski said. I love it here and I really wanted to take my time, preparing for a larger school. I was able to do all that at COD.