Tiffany Dean only applied to DePaul. "I wouldn’t have guessed that every single class would end up being exactly what I needed. DePaul has been wonderful for me," she says. (Aubreonna Chamberlain/DePaul University)Tiffany Dean, School of Continuing and Professional Studies Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies with a major in business administration
Hometown: Chicago
How did you choose DePaul and the School of Continuing and Professional Studies?
I returned to higher education in the winter term of 2020. The passing of my only brother coincided with the pandemic shutdowns, which closed my salon. The thought of going back to school as an adult was terrifying, but it was the only path I saw that could help me maintain my sanity during such a difficult time. Before this, I never imagined a hairdresser and bar manager like myself would be without work. I had always juggled multiple beverage and service industry jobs that kept my bills paid and my days full.
When I finished my associate degree from City Colleges of Chicago in 2022, I had opportunities to go to universities outside of Chicago, but I was born here, my family is here, my business and other careers are here. I decided there was no way I was leaving the city. So, when I started looking at colleges in Chicago, I only applied to one. And that was DePaul. I wouldn’t have guessed that every single class would end up being exactly what I needed. DePaul has been wonderful for me.
Your resume shows a wide variety of careers. Can you share some of your passions with readers?
I’ve honed skills across a wide range of fields — beauty, entertainment, even weekend gardening — adapting based on whatever opportunities came my way. I’ve been cutting hair for over 30 years and have owned my own hair salon for nearly 20 years. I’ve also been embedded in the Chicago music scene since I was in high school, which has led to careers at Riviera Theatre, The Victoria Theatre, Riot Fest, and Double Door. At each stop, I’ve held roles from working the door, overseeing bar staff, and developing and managing the Hawker Beverage Program for Riot Fest.
The many careers I’ve held may feel disconnected at first, but I’ve begun to see the thread running through my seemingly random past, as I’ve learned to reflect, analyze, and connect experiences in a way that gives them new value and meaning.
Volunteering has been a key part of your journey at DePaul. Why have these experiences been important to you?
The opportunities to give back is one of the many reasons why I love DePaul so much. There were times in my life where I was hungry and needed to go to a soup kitchen to eat. So, volunteering one morning a week at the
Elizabeth Ann Seton Food Pantry & Soup Kitchen was a great way to pay it forward. I’ve always enjoyed working in gardens, so participating in
Vincentian Service Day and getting my hands dirty was a great experience. Serving as an Egan Office Student Success Coach at a local CPS school has been incredible. I’ve found that a little positivity when a student is struggling on an assignment can go a long way.
What advice would you give to DePaul students?
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to understand that there is value in all interactions and situations you have in life, even if it doesn't feel that way at the time. I’ve learned so many valuable life lessons from moments that were painful at the time. It’s hard to realize it in the moment, but you will eventually.
What’s next?
I’m really interested in attending law school. And there’s only one university for me if I make that decision: DePaul. I mentioned earlier how music has played a big role in my life. I would love to help young musicians with things like contracts, press kits, copyright regulations and intellectual property. It would be a dream job that combines so many of my interests and skills.
Meet more of the Class of 2025
here.
Russell Dorn is a senior manager of media relations in University Communications.