How does the class of 2025 think back on their time at Driehaus?
When we asked six students representing the college's six departments and schools, the word that came up most was “supportive.”
Read on for the stories of just a few of the members of the Class of 2025: Their favorite pieces of advices, their favorite spots in the city, and where they’re headed next.
Alizeh Ahmed
Major: Economics Data Analytics
Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan
Plans after graduation: I’m planning to pursue my master’s in finance.
DePaul in one word? Eye-opening.
What’s your favorite DePaul memory?
Switching my major from literature to Economics Data Analytics.
I still remember the feeling of anticipation, anxiety, and fear as I stepped into my very first economics class. Before that, I had never studied econ—not even close. But something about that first class changed everything. The concepts, though new, clicked instantly. What may have seemed small to others felt like a huge leap for me.
It turned out to be the best decision I ever made. I always encourage others to step into unfamiliar spaces—take a class or join an experience outside your comfort zone. You never know where you might discover your true calling.
What’s your favorite Chicago neighborhood?
Coming to the United States for the first time—especially for college—was the biggest step I’ve taken, and it was a big move for my family too. There’s something about Devon that brings a sense of comfort, of home away from home. Maybe it’s the food, or maybe it’s the people, but I think it’s a bit of everything.
People often call it “Little India,” but if anything, it should be called “Little South Asia.”
What’s the most memorable piece of advice you’ve received from a mentor, professor, or peer at DePaul?
I’ve been lucky to meet incredible professors and peers at DePaul—people who not only taught me but genuinely believed in my growth. One piece of advice that has always stayed with me came from Professor Brian Thompson at an event I attended. He said, “Every interaction you have should not be transactional, but transformational.”
That deeply resonated with me. In a world where people are constantly competing over jobs, grades, and recognition, the real accomplishment is in being able to transform someone’s life simply through your presence.
How would you describe DePaul in one word?
DePaul opened my eyes—not just to new opportunities and people, but to myself. It shaped the way I see the world and helped me grow into who I am today.
Samantha Berglind
Major(s) and minor(s): Accounting and Data Science
Hometown: St. Charles, Illinois
Plans after graduation: I will be starting as Audit Staff at Plante Moran’s Chicago office later this summer
DePaul in one word? Full of opportunities
What’s your favorite DePaul memory?
Traveling to Germany with the Global Business Perspectives program this past December. I had never been out of the country before, and was really unsure of what to expect, but I absolutely loved my time in Frankfurt and Munich and have been wishing to go back since! Professors Mindak and Wang did a fantastic job organizing that trip. It was far and away one of my best weeks as a DePaul student.
What’s your favorite Chicago neighborhood?
I love Lincoln Park so much. It has been my home for the last four years and I have yet to get sick of it. I love seeing the stunning architecture on every block, as well as the amount of greenery and parks throughout the neighborhood.
What’s the most memorable piece of advice you got from a mentor, professor, or peer at DePaul?
“Hard work will get you in the door, but being personable keeps you in the room.”
A professor told me this during my first year at DePaul, and this has served as a guiding principle to me ever since. Prioritizing academics and doing well in class is incredibly important, but engaging in meaningful conversations and getting to know the people around you is the true key to success.
How would you describe DePaul in one word?
Full of opportunities. Being a student at DePaul opened so many doors for me and allowed me to explore so many opportunities, both personal and professional, that I would not have had at any other school. Being in Chicago and having access to DePaul’s strong alumni network really helped me make relevant connections and build a strong foundation for my own professional network.
Anum Sadruddin
Major(s) and minor(s): Major in Marketing (Concentrations in IME and Sales Leadership) and Minor in Applied Psychology
Hometown: Itasca, Illinois
Plans after graduation: I will be back in my hometown, but as a business professional this time, working at Topco Associates, LLC as Sr. Rotational Specialist on the Brand/Marketing Track!
DePaul in one word? A journey
What’s your favorite DePaul memory?
It’s hard to narrow it down! There have been so many great moments in the Kellstadt Marketing Center and the Marketing Department as an ambassador and events lead. Among the faculty and staff, Stephen Kelly, Jurate Murray, Jess Sanborn, and Deirdre Laverdiere have been incredibly helpful in my career and personal development.
What’s your favorite Chicago neighborhood?
Lakeview is where I had my first apartment. It’s where my best friends and I would go out; it’s where I would go grocery shopping and learn to “adult” for the first time.
What’s the most memorable piece of advice you got from a mentor, professor, or peer at DePaul?
A classic: “network, network, network.” Thankfully, I started during my freshman year, which has allowed me to form meaningful professional relationships, some of which have turned into true friendships.
How would you describe DePaul in one word?
Journey. DePaul has been a journey of many ups and transformative downs that have strengthened my professional and personal growth. I would not change anything because every experience has taught me how to exude a true character that has inspired confidence.
Marvin Gibson
Major(s) and minor(s): Finance Major, Accounting Minor
Hometown: Broadview, IL
Plans after graduation: Working in Investment Banking at Societe Generale in New York
DePaul in one word? Resourceful
What’s your favorite DePaul memory?
Singing out loud at 12 a.m. My freshman year, I lived in U-Hall. Every time I would walk out of my room at night, there was always a group of people singing or talking or just hanging out.
What's your favorite Chicago neighborhood?
River North and West Loop. From the food spots to other activities, it’s always lively. Recently, I went rock climbing with some friends in West Loop and it was such a fun experience! I always find something new to do whenever I go to those two neighborhoods.
What’s the most memorable piece of advice you got from a mentor, professor, or peer at DePaul?
Always make new mistakes; never make the mistakes you see others make. I really like this advice because it reminds me that learning from other people’s experiences can be just as impactful as experiencing things firsthand.
How would you describe DePaul in one word?
Resourceful. DePaul has so many outlets and programs that can help students achieve their goals. It really is about knowing the right people and asking about what’s available.
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Gretchen Shuler
Name: Gretchen Shuler
Major(s) and minor(s): Entrepreneurship (minor Management)
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Plans after graduation: I plan to keep pursuing and expanding my company, ReBrewed Café, in Chicago. With support from hospitality faculty, I’m also seeking a second job in the beverage alcohol industry (wine expert, bar tender, sales rep, who knows?!)
DePaul in one word? City-girl!
What’s your favorite DePaul memory?
Opening the popup location for ReBrewed Café in the Coleman Entrepreneurship Center. It was exciting and stressful at the same time, and it was such a major milestone for my company and for me as an entrepreneur.
What’s your favorite Chicago neighborhood?
I love Chinatown, Pilsen, and Logan Square! They all have great food and great places to go out with friends.
What’s the most memorable piece of advice you got from a mentor, professor, or peer at DePaul?
You can’t control everything that happens in life, but you can choose how you react to them.
How would you describe DePaul in one word?
City-girl!
Mollie McNulty
Major(s) and minor(s): Major: Hospitality Leadership, Minor: Event Management and Operations
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
Plans after graduation: I just accepted an internship working on the Meeting Services team at ADCES! Looking ahead, I hope to get a full-time position in event planning.
DePaul in one word? Supportive
What’s your favorite DePaul memory?
Getting to travel to San Diego with the DePaul Event Management Club for a PCMA conference [a leading conference for event planners]. I had the honor of acting as EMC president; in that role, I brought a group of 9 students with me. We met so many incredible professionals and learned so much as a group.
What’s your favorite Chicago neighborhood?
I have loved getting to live in Lakeview for the last three years. One of my favorite activities is walking to the lake because I can see so much of the skyline.
What’s the most memorable piece of advice you got from a mentor, professor, or peer at DePaul?
Juan Mendez has been the most incredible teacher and mentor. He’s always told me to never settle in my career; to take chances and focus on my passions. I’ve put so much time and hard work into building up my experience. That advice helps remind me of that.
How would you describe DePaul in one word?
Supportive.