Presidential Scholars begin studies at COD
As a senior at Glenbard East High School last year, Basia Reed heard about the Presidential Scholars program at College of DuPage through Glenbard's financial aid counselor.
She knew her outstanding academic record gave her a strong chance at being selected for the full-ride scholarship. More importantly, Reed realized the value of attending College of DuPage and how it could fit into her career goals.
“I want to be a veterinarian, and I know it will take eight years of college,” said the Lombard resident. “By coming to COD, I can complete all my gen ed requirements and then transfer to my next school debt-free.”
Reed is one of 56 students who were selected to become Presidential Scholars for the 2011-2012 academic year. Touting an average ACT score of 30 and an average GPA of 3.84/4.0, the scholars represent the very “best of the best” in terms of area high school graduates, receiving full-tuition scholarships for up to 64 credit hours as well as admission into the Honors Program and the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Courtney Clark of Bloomingdale also was selected as a Presidential Scholar. The Lake Park High School graduate initially wanted to attend a four-year university, but her parents suggested that she check out College of DuPage.
“I thought if I chose COD, I'd miss out on a lot of things, such as being part of the student life and getting to live on campus,” she said. “But after my parents found out about the scholarship, I decided to apply. When I received it, I came to COD for several meetings, and the more I came to campus, the more I liked it.
“When I participated in the Student Leadership retreat in August, I realized COD has everything that other universities do.”
Clark has not decided upon a career and is enrolled in general education classes. While she took Spanish in high school, she's now enrolled in French in hopes of traveling or studying abroad and perhaps pursuing a career in international relations.
Her goal is to take full advantage of what COD has to offer. She's already participating in the Living Leadership program and is a Student Ambassador.
“I keep thinking over and over again that I'm really happy that I chose COD,” she said. “I've met so many people, and I like all the classes and teachers that I have right now. I don't think I could have made a better choice.”
For Reed, she was first aware of College of DuPage as a girl, when she was enrolled in dance classes and the recitals were held at the McAninch Arts Center.
She developed a love of animals while growing up with her family's pets – which included cats, one dog and two ferrets – and she wants to dedicate herself to improving the lives of people's pets. Being ranked in the top 1 percent of her high school class gave Reed multiple options for college, and she's happy with her selection.
“College of DuPage provides a high quality education, and people are here because they want to be,” she said. “I'm saving money in the long run, and I'm really impressed with COD.”
For more information about becoming a Presidential Scholar, contact the Admissions office at (630) 942-2482 or visit home.cod.edu/financialAid/scholarships.