Michael Lynch
By Victoria Williams
In 2018 Michael Lynch graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in Organizational Communication, but his undergraduate experience at DePaul was shaped by more than just his studies.
Michael served as President of the DePaul University Student Government Association, was a Black Student Union member, an Irwin Steans Community Service Executive Board member, a Diversity Assistant for the Office of Institutional Diversity and Equity, a Men of Color Program Peer Mentor, and a Basketball Manager for the Blue Demons Men’s Basketball Team.
Through his DePaul experience, he learned so much about himself and the world. Whether in the classroom, residence halls, or student organizations, he was intellectually stimulated and motivated by the people around him. For Michael, the Career Center was also an amazing on-campus resource.
“DePaul’s Career Center, from the time I started at DePaul, provided outstanding resources and information that I needed as I searched, applied and eventually worked in all of my various roles. From resume and cover letter reviews, to interview preparations, the information-sharing was superb. I interned every school year and summer and I know that was possible because of the resources and connections that the Career Center provided. Additionally – if it had not been for the skills and tools of the Career Center, I arguably would not have graduated with a job in my field.”
Public Relations & Healthcare Communications Professional at Golin
BA Organizational Communication 2018
Michael was also able to create a community of people that supported his development as a person, student, and as a leader. He added that being a DePaul student is both a privilege and a responsibility.
“I interned every school year and summer and I know that was possible because of the resources and connections that the Career Center provided.”
Initially, he did not see himself in the Vincentian Mission and didn’t truly understand it. After attending the 2018 Vincentian Heritage Tour to France, he learned that St. Vincent provided a framework to hold ourselves, each other, and those in positions of privilege accountable for upholding this mission.
“The principles of forming one another and respecting the human dignity of each individual can be adopted by anyone, regardless of what faith they practice.”
Michael reflected on his DePaul journey as one of love, loss, triumph, defeat, deconstructing and reimagining. Family, friends, students, staff, and faculty invested in Michael. The people that made an impact during his academic career made all the difference in his experience.
