Stella Spero credits GRCC for giving her leadership opportunities.
Spero, a 2017 Rockford High School graduate, was undecided on her major when she came to GRCC. She joined the Honors Program, which emphasizes leadership skills and service learning in addition to academic performance.
She also got a chance to learn leadership skills as co-president of the French Club.
“I worked with Tikvah Finn and Carson McCready,” she said. “We would had themed meetings -- Halloween and Christmas -- and we went on a 'café crawl,' with fun dinners at the Downtown Market and Nee Hôtel Mertiens!”
French professor Hillery Haney says Spero has been “an absolute delight” as a student.
“Her fun, positive personality and energy are contagious,” Haney said. “Stella not only worked hard in class, she also created opportunities for other to participate in a ‘French’ experience through her Honors project of getting the French Club off the ground and running. She organized a variety of experiences, including group gatherings at the Downtown Market. They seemed to really enjoy each others’ company have a good time -- all while promoting the French culture and interest.
“I will miss Stella but can’t wait to hear what she does next.”
Spero said that finding a club or organization that interests you is a great way to learn and grow at GRCC: “Get involved -- your experience will be so much more fun. In those clubs, you’ll meet lifelong friends!”
Spero received her Associate of Arts at commencement this spring. She plans to get a degree in marketing and work at a marketing firm.