Consulting Project
Student Consultant, DePaul University
10‑Week Capstone Consulting Engagement
This project aimed to support and elevate first‑generation business students at DePaul University by improving their access to resources, sense of belonging, and academic/career readiness. Our work focused on rethinking engagement, communication, and support structures within the Driehaus College of Business.
Our Main Insight’s
First‑generation students often struggle with navigating university systems, accessing resources, and building a sense of identity on a commuter‑heavy campus. These gaps lead to lower engagement, reduced opportunities, and challenges in transitioning into professional environments.
Through student interviews, campus benchmarking, and internal analysis, we identified:
Limited awareness of academic, financial, and career resources
Weak school identity and minimal tradition-based engagement
Insufficient mentorship opportunities and community‑building spaces
A need for more tailored programming for incoming and transfer first‑gen students
Main Problems Contributing to the Problem
Many students feel disconnected due to commuter culture and a lack of inclusive engagement opportunities.
Without clear differentiation, Driehaus risks losing competitive appeal to other business schools.
The Driehaus College of Business must enhance the overall student experience to increase its value for current students, prospective students, and alumni. This challenge affects student engagement, school identity, career readiness, and alumni involvement critical factors in Driehaus' long-term success.
Low Student Engagement
Struggles to Attract Prospective Students
Online vs In-Person
Run the risk of students not being able to fully retain information and not having full engagement from students
Career Support Improvement
Lack of awareness among students and transfer/First Gen students not having prior knowledge of programs and opportunities
Our Solution’s
Our Hopeful Future
Lack of Tradition
Needing to create a strong sense of identity and school spirit
Weak School Identity
Minimal branding and traditions fail to create a strong sense of Driehaus pride and belonging
First‑Gen Business Hub
A centralized support center offering mentorship, advising, career preparation, and community‑building activities designed specifically for first‑gen business students.
Peer & Alumni Mentorship Network
A layered mentorship model pairing students with upperclassmen, faculty advocates, and supportive alumni to foster professional growth and belonging.
Branding & Outreach Expansion
High‑school partnerships, social media content, digital resource guides, and storytelling campaigns that highlight first‑gen success and raise awareness among prospective students.
The program is building a strong and intentional foundation for future growth by engaging first‑generation students directly within their educational environments. Through coordinated visits to high schools and colleges with significant first‑gen populations, the team collaborates closely with guidance counselors to deliver informative presentations, share clear and compelling materials, and create meaningful points of connection with students. This outreach is complemented by a strengthened digital presence, including a dedicated Instagram channel and an enhanced DePaul website designed to provide streamlined access to program information, resources, and opportunities.