Hard work earns prestigious award

The Honors Program, the Haitian Student Organization and Model U.N. are just some of the organizations that this year's Undergraduate Student of the Year, Leslie Puzo, is involved in. Finding out that she was picked caused her to shout with joy. Literally.

"I actually was on a date and my friend Glen knew I applied and he called me. I screamed in the middle of Calistoga. My date was confused, but I was very excited," Puzo said.

To get the award wasn't easy though. This senior majoring in political science had to be nominated, accept her nomination and put together a portfolio of how she demonstrated service, leadership, and scholarship. The portfolio then had to be reviewed by a selection committee, which included members of the Office of Student Affairs and the Dean of Students.

"Putting together a portfolio of your entire four years isn't easy. The Student Support Services office allowed me to print my portfolio and encouraged me. They've helped me throughout the years and up to the last minute," Puzo said.

Two professors in particular were also fundamental in helping Puzo achieve this accomplishment.

"Dr. (Richard) Coughlin and Dr. (Nicola) Foote wrote letters of recommendation for me. They're very difficult professors but you learn the most (from them)," Puzo said.

Besides taking difficult classes and professors as a way for students to get the most out of their education, Puzo also suggests getting involved and being knowledgeable about FGCU and all it has to offer.

"Work hard, care and get involved. If the opportunities are available to you, invest in the school because it will invest in you," she said.  

Getting this title is just the beginning for Puzo. In five years she hopes to have a law degree, live in New York or Washington, D.C. and work for the United Nations.