“The Dax Program was life-changing for me. I would have never been able to finish at DePaul had it not been for Dax. I am so grateful for the resources that the program has offered us. The financial and housing resources made the difference for me. My hope is that the Dax Program continues to expand to help more students.” – Carolyn

From homelessness to a realtor. Here is the story of the downs and ups and downs and ups from the Depaul USA’s Dax Program newsletter…

Depaul USA provides college students with housing and services that support a path out of homelessness and toward the completion of their studies. We are thankful we are able to provide these services to students, like Carolyn, during this pandemic.

Carolyn was raised on the South Side of Chicago. She was always a hard-working student. She knew from a young age that she wanted to go to college and work in business. Determined and excited, Carolyn went into her first class at DePaul University uncertain about her future. She did not have money for books or school supplies. Carolyn did not even have money for lunch that day. She did not know how she was going to be able to continue her studies, but she knew she was where she was supposed to be.

The road did not get easier. Carolyn worked numerous jobs and was barely able to make ends meet. She studied hard and many of those around her were unaware of her struggles and hardships. Carolyn was living with her sister. Her sister, however, had to move suddenly and Carolyn was left with no place to live.

Carolyn found Depaul USA’s Dax Program. She moved into the Dax House in Ukrainian Village and had a safe, stable environment to focus on her studies. She excelled. In March, 2020 Carolyn graduated from DePaul University with a degree in Business Administration. She had a full-time job lined up and her dreams were within her grasp. 

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the company let go all of the newly hired employees. After working so hard to get to where she was, Carolyn felt discouraged. Thankfully, the company recently re-hired staff and she got her original job back. Carolyn moved into her own studio apartment and is working remotely full-time. She recently got her real estate license and is excited for the future.

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