Coco Brown is a freshman majoring in political science with a minor in public relations and advertising. She is from Honolulu, Hawaii, and lives on campus.

Why did you choose to attend DePaul?

The thought of paying for college can be quite daunting for both students and parents. Cost played a major role in my college selection process. I wanted to choose a college I could see myself falling in love with, but I knew that, ultimately, my decision would come down to where my mom could afford to send me. I was raised by a single mother along side my two brothers. My mom has always put a strong emphasis on getting a good education, but I have always worried about my education coming at my mom’s expense. When I chose DePaul University, I was choosing both a school I knew I’d love AND a school my mom could manage to afford! As a result, I get to spend the next four years gaining a great education in the beautiful city of Chicago!

How are you paying for college?

I was fortunate enough to receive the St. Vincent de Paul Scholarship, DePaul Award, and EDGE Program Award upon my acceptance to DePaul.

What do you hope to do after you graduate and what are some ways DePaul is helping you prepare for this?

I hope to further my education by attending law school. DePaul is helping me to prepare for a career in law and politics through classes and professors that are furthering my knowledge and supplementing me with the resources necessary for my success. Also, seeing as DePaul is in the bustling city of Chicago, there are countless opportunities for me to volunteer on political campaigns and intern at law firms. At DePaul I get the best of both worlds. I am able to gain a valuable education while also having countless opportunities to partake in real-world experience.

From your point of view, what’s valuable about your student’s DePaul education that makes your investment worthwhile?

Coco’s mom: A college education is a significant investment. However, I believe that Coco is benefiting immensely from her interaction with DePaul’s diverse student body, well-educated and published faculty, and the opportunity to live in a vibrant, bustling city like Chicago. Aside from gaining a wealth of knowledge in the classroom, she is also growing from her experience in and with the city.