Senior English major wins top student award
Released: April 01, 2008
Julie Paucek
Finalists for the University of Wisconsin Whitewater's most prestigious award, the McGraw Award for Student Excellence, are stand-out students who excel in their academic careers, personal achievements and community involvement.
Julie Paucek, a senior from Sullivan, Wis., is that accomplished student to receive the 2007-08 McGraw Award.
The McGraw Award is the university's top student award. Arthur McGraw, former dean of the School of Graduate Studies, established the award in 1985 to honor outstanding student achievement. Presented annually, the recipient receives a $400 stipend.
Upon hearing news of receiving the award, Paucek couldn't believe her ears.
"I was completely shocked and absolutely dumbfounded," she said. "It was completely satisfying to be recognized by the nomination, not to mention flattering, but I never thought that I would be selected. There are a lot of deserving students here at UW-Whitewater, so I am in awe to be recognized with this prestigious award."
She shouldn't be surprised considering her academic accomplishments, including a 4.0 GPA, and her contributions to the university as well as the community. Paucek is a member of the honorary societies of Phi Theta Kappa, Sigma Tau Delta, as well as Phi Kappa Phi. Her list of community service activities and projects include volunteering at her hometown elementary school and giving her time to Sullivan's St. Mary's Help of Christians Catholic Church Religious Education show.
Lauren Smith, associate professor of women's studies, values Paucek's positive effect on her classmates.
"She is one of the most gifted, responsible and well-rounded students I have had in my 20 years teaching at the college level," said Smith. "Despite her extra-curricular responsibilities, Julie was probably the best-prepared and most organized student in either of the two classes she took with me. She values education itself - perhaps more than any other student I have taught."
After graduating from UW-Whitewater, Paucek hopes to teach high school English and attend graduate school. John Zbikowski, associate professor of curriculum and instruction, feels Paucek's creativity, attention to detail and past experience with learners will help her in the next phase of her teaching career.
"The diligence and professionalism, not to mention the realism, with which Julie approaches the many challenges of teaching, suggest to me that upon entering the field as a licensed teacher, Julie will be prepared to stay there for the long haul," Zbikowski said.
As for advice to current students, Paucek stresses taking advantage of the opportunities available to students at UW-Whitewater.
"When you find yourself making excuses or giving up, look around and take note of all the advantages, resources and opportunities that you have," said Paucek. "Then ask if you are being truly honest with yourself. I believe that higher education is a privilege, so take the initiative to go the extra mile and enjoy every minute of it."
- Keara Lahiff,lahiffkk25@uww.edu
