University Spotlight: DePaul University
Dr. Ortegón visits DePaul University
Demon in Blue Suit - - an interesting name for the mascot at a Catholic University, but more about that later.
Dr. Ricardo Ortegón, founder and president of GPS College Guidance, recently toured DePaul University. The university is located in the heart of Chicago and has a diverse student body with a range of academic programs to offer.
HISTORY
DePaul University is a private Catholic research university located in Chicago, Illinois, USA. It was founded in 1898 by the Vincentians, a Catholic religious order. The university was named after St. Vincent de Paul, a 17th-century French priest known for his work with the poor.
Initially, DePaul was a small school with only one building and 70 students. However, it rapidly grew, and by the 1920s, it had become one of the largest Catholic universities in the country.
Over the years, DePaul University has expanded its academic programs to include a wide range of fields, from business and law to the arts and sciences. Today, the university has ten colleges and schools, serving approximately 22,000 students.
DePaul University has a strong commitment to social justice and community service. It is one of the nation's largest Catholic universities and has a diverse student body. Its graduates have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including business, law, medicine, and the arts. DePaul has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and has received numerous awards for its efforts to reduce its environmental impact.
Dr. Ortegón was impressed with the university's campus and facilities, which were modern and well-maintained.
One of the highlights of the tour was the university's Honors Program, which Dr. Ortegon found to be an excellent option for students who are looking for a challenging academic experience. The program offers a range of opportunities for students to engage in research, internships, and study abroad programs.
Dr. Ortegón was also impressed with the university's commitment to career readiness. He learned that the Career Center provides students with a range of resources to help them prepare for their future careers, including workshops, career fairs, and one-on-one career coaching.
Overall, Dr. Ortegón had a nice experience touring DePaul University. He found that the university's commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and career readiness make it an excellent choice for students who are looking for a comprehensive and challenging educational experience.
ACADEMICS
Academically, DePaul is known for its strong programs in business, public relations, film & television, accounting, theatre, game design, animation and psychology and its faculty is dedicated to helping students succeed in their academic pursuits. The university also offers a range of support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services.
SPORTS
DePaul University has a diverse and thriving sports program that offers a wide range of opportunities for its students to participate in athletics. The university's varsity teams, known as the Blue Demons, compete in the Big East Conference and have a strong tradition of excellence in basketball. In addition to basketball, DePaul offers varsity sports in soccer, volleyball, softball, and track and field, among others. The university also has a robust intramural sports program, which includes popular sports such as flag football, dodgeball, and ultimate frisbee. Overall, DePaul's sports program provides a great platform for students to stay active, hone their athletic skills, and develop a strong sense of camaraderie and school spirit.
MASCOT - DEMON IN BLUE SUIT
And now back to DePaul’s mascot. It is interesting to note that the school's mascot is the Blue Demon, given that it is a Catholic institution. The mascot's name, DIBS, which stands for Demon In a Blue Suit, is an amusing play on words that adds a touch of humor to the university's identity.
The Blue Demon mascot has been a part of DePaul University's culture since the 1920s, when the school's athletic teams were first known as the Blue Demons. Initially, the mascot was a live dog named Billy, but in the 1940s, the school adopted a cartoon version of the Blue Demon as its official mascot. Over the years, the mascot has undergone several updates to its appearance, and in recent years, DIBS has become a popular figure on campus and at sporting events.
Despite the slightly ominous name and appearance of the mascot, it is important to note that DePaul University is a Catholic institution. The Blue Demon mascot is simply a representation of the university's athletic teams and does not reflect the school's broader mission or values. Nevertheless, it is an iconic symbol of the university and a beloved part of its history and culture.
STUDENT LIFE
Student life at DePaul University in Chicago is dynamic and diverse, offering a range of opportunities for students to get involved and engaged on campus.
There are over 300 student organizations at DePaul, ranging from academic and professional clubs to special interest and cultural groups, so students can easily find a community that aligns with their interests and passions. The university also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as concerts, comedy shows, cultural celebrations, and sporting events, which provide students with opportunities to socialize and have fun.
LOCATION - Chicago, Illinois
DePaul's location in Chicago also provides students with a unique urban experience. Students have access to all the city has to offer, including world-class museums, theater productions, restaurants, and more. The university is also well-connected to public transportation, making it easy for students to explore the city.
Overall, student life at DePaul University is vibrant and engaging, offering students a well-rounded college experience both on and off campus.
DEEP DISH PIZZA!
And lastly, a visit to Chicago wouldn’t be complete without having some of their famous deep dish pizza. During his visit, Dr. Ortegón eagerly sought out the city’s unforgettable treat. The experience was nothing short of extraordinary, and actually not his first time having this culinary delight. If you ever find yourself in Chicago, do not miss the opportunity to indulge in this legendary dish. The deep dish pizza is an absolute must-try, and it will undoubtedly leave you with a newfound appreciation for Chicago’s culinary prowess!
GPS College Guidance
GPS College Guidance specializes in providing boutique-style college admissions consulting services. Our approach revolves around delivering individualized and highly personalized guidance, tailoring our services to meet each student's unique needs and aspirations. With over 25 years of experience working with students, we understand that the college admissions process varies for every individual. Our primary focus is on student success, and we begin by getting to know each student personally, considering their entire journey of college admission from school selection to enrollment.