Student Spotlight: Lydia Whitten

Lydia Whitten's four older siblings attended College of DuPage, so she was familiar with the school before enrolling.

A graduate of the Willows Academy in Des Plaines, Whitten initially wanted to complete her studies at COD in less than two years and then transfer, but she realized there was no reason to rush. While pursuing an Associate in Arts degree, Whitten took a variety of classes and became involved in a range of activities to see what she likes.

She also was elected Student Trustee for the 2011-2012 school year. She follows in the footsteps of her older sister, Hope, who also served as Student Trustee.

"My sister had a great time with it, and people have said we are so alike, so that may be one reason I've enjoyed it," she said. "At the beginning I was a little nervous, but I gained my ground. I wanted to know what it would be like to serve in this kind of leadership position."

Although she has not decided upon a major or where she will transfer, Whitten is looking at her older siblings for inspiration. After obtaining degrees at COD, two of her sisters worked abroad before transferring to earn bachelor's degrees.

Whitten is eager to explore options and maximize her experiences. After she earns her degree in 2012, she will volunteer as an English conversationalist at Colegio Orvalle in Madrid, Spain.

"I'm proof enough that COD is what you make of it, and I definitely made the best of it," she said.

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