Naperville singer advances on 'Idol'

Gina Glocksen walked away in tears -- barely able to keep her head up. She stepped into the elevator and cried some more.

But make no mistake -- these were tears of joy.

The 22-year-old Naperville native was informed on Wednesday's episode of "American Idol" that she had become one of the final 12 female contestants. Twelve male contestants also will compete in the next round.

"Shut up!" she told judges Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell in disbelief as she was informed that she had advanced. "Oh my God."

Not only is she one step closer to becoming an Idol, but she will get more time in the national spotlight. She will have more opportunities to perform solos and win based on viewers' votes.

Viewers will get greater insight of their personalities and talents over the next few weeks. Many times, contestants who haven't won the competition have become nearly as successful as the winners.

And Glocksen wasn't the only contestant from the region to receive good news on Wednesday's episode. Leslie Hunt, 24, of St. Charles also advanced to the next round.

The next "American Idol" episode will air at 7 p.m. Tuesday. The women will compete on Wednesday's episode at 7 p.m.