Ambitious Davenport University nursing student runs toward success

Zoe Zawacki, a Davenport University nursing student from Byron Center, sets the tone for a successful career by giving 100% in all she does. She balances her responsibilities as a student dispatcher for Davenport's Department of Public Safety (DPS) and as a runner on the university's track and cross-country team. In her "spare time," she also works for Corewell Health and Steelcase.

Zawacki has worked for Davenport's DPS for a year-and-a-half and likes being involved in campus security. "Working as a student dispatcher has allowed me to play an active role in ensuring the safety of faculty and students on campus," she said. "I also enjoy being able to assist students with situations and build my communication skills."

In recognition of her hard work, Zawacki was nominated for a Pawscars Emerging Student Employee Award by Brett Windsor, assistant director of Public Safety.

Students are nominated for the Pawsars in a variety of categories by faculty, staff and other students. The winners, who are announced during the winter semester, receive prizes and scholarships.

"I nominated Zoe for the Pawscars award because she is reliable and helps the Public Safety team respond effectively to campus needs. She is also dedicated to her role and makes a meaningful impact on the university," said Windsor.

"I feel honored to have received this award," said Zawacki. "It's really rewarding to know that my efforts have been noticed, and it motivates me to continue working hard and contributing positively to the campus community."

Zawacki also works as a nurse technician in the ICU at Corewell Health, where she assists with patient care, ensuring a good recovery experience. Her passion for nursing combines her love for a fast-paced and changing environment. "The opportunity to witness and contribute to patient recoveries as a nurse technician can be incredibly fulfilling and is helping to prepare me for a future as a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) or nurse practitioner," she said.

During the summer, Zawacki works for Steelcase as well, where she packages desktops on an assembly line.

"It sometimes gets pretty hectic because I work a lot, but it's been a great way to gain hands-on nursing-related experience and help pay for my school expenses," said Zawacki.

Zawacki is also an athlete and competes on Davenport's track and cross-country team. "Being on the team has been an incredible experience because it not only helps me stay in shape, but it's also given me the opportunity to meet a lot of great people," she said.

This ambitious student admits that it isn't always easy balancing such a busy schedule, but she has managed to do just that with help from her teammates.

"My teammates are a huge source of motivation for me, and being part of a team has provided me with a second family, with people I can always rely on for support and encouragement," Zawacki said.

The sophomore said that the Davenport University nursing program has been a great experience so far, and she especially enjoys benefitting from the hands-on experience. "The professors are extremely supportive and provide excellent learning opportunities that help nursing students succeed," said Zawacki.

After she earns her nursing degree in 2027, Zawacki hopes to continue her studies to pursue her passion for more advanced nursing roles. "I'm excited to continue my education and grow in the nursing field," Zawacki said.

Zawacki continues to exhibit resilience and hard work in all she does. Each role she has taken on demonstrates her impressive ability to manage numerous responsibilities.

Her commitment to Davenport's DPS, the nursing program and the track and cross country team are unwavering and drive her passion for personal growth.