Dear Editor,

National Student Employment Week started April 13, and with it I’ve found myself reflecting on the journey that student employment set in motion for me.

I’ve been on an incredible College of DuPage (COD) journey for nearly half of my life. Over the years, I’ve worked in Writing, Reading, & Speech Assistance (WRSA), Tutoring, Registration, Admissions and now Financial Aid. It’s amazing to think that it all started in 2009 with a simple postcard I received in the mail about becoming a peer coach in WRSA. That postcard truly changed the course of my life.

Originally, I didn’t plan to stay at COD for long. My goal was to complete my general education courses and then transfer to pursue teaching. However, working as a student employee in both WRSA and Tutoring created a deep connection to the college. I loved helping students strengthen their writing and reading skills and I had the opportunity to tutor some of my favorite subjects, including psychology, earth science and math. I also promoted services through classroom visits and Beginning of Semester Success workshops hosted by Tutoring.

Through student employment, I earned extra income, developed strong communication skills and built meaningful relationships with staff, faculty and fellow students. I also gained valuable experience for my resume. After graduating from COD with my Associate in Arts degree, I was offered a professional tutoring position. Although I was no longer a student worker, those two years as a tutor were truly transformative.

Long story short, I never left COD. Over the past 17 years, I’ve held various roles and gained a comprehensive understanding of the college from both student and academic services perspectives. I’ve simply loved working here too much to leave. In many ways, it feels like COD and I are in it for life. Like we’re married.

I’m writing to express my appreciation for the work-study program at COD. Without it, I would not be where I am today in Financial Aid. Ironically, this feels like a full-circle moment, as I now support the work-study program in my role as Work Study & Outreach Specialist.

I encourage students who are interested in working at COD to explore student employment opportunities at cod.edu/about/human-resources/. You can earn extra income, gain valuable experience and connect with incredible people across campus. I hope the benefits are truly transformative for you just as they were for me.

Lastly, I want to give a big shoutout to all student workers across campus. You are appreciated more than you know. Your knowledge, enthusiasm and unique student perspectives make a meaningful impact in departments throughout COD. You leave a bigger impact than you can imagine. The college truly appreciates YOU. So thank you for all that you do. Keep shining bright.

Sincerely,

Joseph Latoria

Work Study & Outreach Specialist