Student Spotlight: Angelo Bartocci

Angelo Bartocci originally saw College of DuPage as a means to an end.

He wanted a college education, and COD was affordable, close to home and had an excellent reputation. What he didn't expect was how many connections he'd make at College of DuPage.

"The professors and students who come from all walks of life are the reasons why I keep coming back," Bartocci said. "When I came to COD, I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life. What I was surprised by, and continue to be surprised by, is how much the time spent there has led me to my chosen vocation."

After earning his Associate in Arts degree at College of DuPage, Bartocci graduated Magna Cum Laude from DePaul University with a bachelor's degree in Anthropology. He is now at Midwestern University pursuing his Doctorate in Psychology.

"Currently I'm teaching two days a week a psychoeducation course in Chicago schools on the topics of relational aggression and bullying. I also do one-on-one and group work at a residential facility for adults with mental illness disabilities, all while going to school full-time," he said. "In June (2012), I will begin a diagnostic practicum, where I will do cognitive and emotional assessments for the child through adolescent inpatient population at a private hospital.

"So far my training and the classes I have taken have enriched my life, and I have learned more in this first year than I could have ever dreamed. I have been challenged in a whole new way, entering the professional world of psychology where there are much bigger issues than taking tests or getting grades.

Although he plans to continue post-doctoral studies, Bartocci would like to take classes that are unrelated to his career. He also wants to remain connected to COD.

"All of this spawned from roots grown at COD," he said. "I met some amazing people there and still keep in touch with a few of the professors, who have mentored me and helped guide me in so many ways. The students were great, too. I wouldn't be where I am today without this guidance.

"It is a testament to COD that I came into college wanting to jump to the next point, and I ended up enjoying the journey so much that I didn't want to reach the destination. I can see myself taking courses at COD into old age, to keep my mind sharp and my knowledge of the world up to par. I identify much more with COD than any other school, because it is where I know I can feel at home.

"The whole point of college is to grow, transform and find your vocation. COD was a vital stepping stone in getting me where I am today, setting the stage for the rich career that I am pursuing. I am thankful for all the opportunities I have had and will continue striving over the coming years to establish myself. I am chasing my dreams, and every day they become more of a reality."

More about the Anthropology program