At the start of my senior year of high school I admitted, with much trepidation, that I had absolutely no idea where I would spend the next four years of my life. I knew what I wanted to study viola and to get into a quality music school. Yet the thought of attending a conservatory in the middle of nowhere made me cringe. I also needed a place with lots of life and new people. To my great excitement and relief, my fears of uncertainty were allayed when DePaul University caught my attention. The following April, I literally jumped for joy when I received my acceptance letter to DePaul University's School of Music.
So, why DePaul? The reasons I chose to attend DePaul are as endless as the opportunities I have here.
Above all else, I chose DePaul's School of Music for its world-class faculty. Here at DePaul, the professors are a resource of knowledge and guidance, and most of all an inspiration for me to be the best musician - and person - I can be. My viola professor in particular, Rami Solomonow, is an incredible violist and mentor. Rami puts great effort and care into each students' progress and I cannot express how fortunate I am to study with him.
As someone who is always looking for something new, I was instantly drawn to DePaul for its endless opportunities both inside and outside the realm of music. It is virtually impossible to fall into monotony. If I feel the need to spice up my routine, I can join one of DePaul's 225 student organizations, take a kick-boxing class at the Ray Meyer Fitness Center, catch an episode of “The Office” at the Student Center and so much more.
As a prospective student, I was impressed with the amount of on-campus services DePaul provides to ensure its students are as happy, safe, and as well-prepared as possible. The Financial Fitness Center is always available for any questions I have about my budget - from student loans to my apartment lease. Public Security provides as escort service 7 days a week, from 6pm to 6am. Free tutoring sessions are available in any subject. And that's barely scratching the surface of DePaul's resources.
DePaul's quality in education and services is matched only by its location - just a ten minute train ride from downtown Chicago. Having grown up in a much smaller Midwest city, Cleveland, it was impossible to deny myself the opportunity to live in such an exciting place. Chicago is the perfect place to discover music and culture, not to mention some tasty Chicago-style deep dish pizza!
Since signing my acceptance letter in April of 2009, I have enjoyed learning at DePaul and living in Chicago. Ultimately, I believe DePaul has an unlimited variety of opportunities to offer and there truly is something here for everyone.