International Graduate Student Recruiter
Phone: +1 (312) 362-7169
mcardoz3@depaul.edu
Hometown: Anaheim, CaliforniaCollege Degrees:
M.S., Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis – Global Higher Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, Wisconsin)
B.S., Political Science, Missouri State University (Springfield, Missouri)
My Recruitment Areas:
Graduate International Students
What has been the most rewarding part of working in international admission at DePaul University?
I love working in international admission because it allows me to bring DePaul to the world. DePaul is an amazing university located in one of the most important cities in the U.S. I am grateful that I am in a position to further diversity, cultural exchange, and cross-cultural learning at our wonderful university. I really enjoy helping students navigate what can be an unknown and sometimes scary process of applying to and deciding to attend a big university in the third largest city in America. Being able to explain the benefits of a DePaul education and helping students make their college choice is very rewarding.
What piece of advice would you give an international student who is beginning the university search process?
University fit is more important than ranking! Learn as much as you can ahead of time about the universities you wish to apply to. No two schools are the same. Identify what you want out of your education and look for universities that match your values, goals, and ideal environment. Start the process early and do plenty of research. Good luck!
What is your favorite thing about living in the city of Chicago?
The best thing about living in Chicago is the people! Chicago is a vibrant and diverse metropolis with people from around the globe. You will find a rich cultural history with endless events happening all over the city. There are so many delicious restaurants, live music events, festivals, sports teams, and volunteer opportunities. You will make lifelong friends and build your professional network. The people are what make Chicago a great place to be!
If an international student is curious but unsure about attending college in a city as large as Chicago, what would you tell them?
Chicago is a large city, but ultimately it is a city of 77 distinct neighborhoods. I recommend that first you begin by learning about the neighborhood where DePaul is located and then slowly branch out. This will make you feel more comfortable when going out and exploring other areas. Your student fees include a CTA pass which allows you to make use of public transportation to get almost anywhere in the city.
Furthermore, studying in Chicago means you will access to unbelievable internship opportunities. Chicago is home to hundreds of well-known corporations, including 30+ Fortune 500 companies. You will get to intern and network with some of the world's best and brightest. The city is an extension of the classroom. Take advantage of all it has to offer, and you will go far!