FACULTY BIOS
Olayele Adelakun, Information Systems
Judy Bundra, Music Education
Julie DeRoche, Music Performance
Richard Farkas, Political Science
Joseph Ferrari, Psychology
Lisa Gundry, Management
Matt Irvine, Digital Cinema
Andrea Lyon, Law
Amber Settle, Computer Science
Bibiana Suárez, Art/Art History
Judy Bundra, Ph.D.
Associate Dean, School of Music
School of Music
What is the most rewarding aspect of teaching at DePaul?
The students. Over the 19 years I have taught at DePaul, I truly value the relationships I have had with our music students. Former students often visit or write me with news about their careers and update me on their personal lives. Yesterday, an alumnus stopped by to say hello with her beautiful, newborn little girl. It’s such a privilege to be part of students’ lives and to hear about their successes.
What do you like best about DePaul students?
In a word, DePaul students are nice. At DePaul, we seek out talented students who are wonderful people. They are friendly, open, and teachable. The typical DePaul student is supportive of their fellow students, fun, and, at the same time, very serious about their careers. In the musical world, it is important to work with people as a team, as an ensemble, and our students generally are selfless, kind individuals who enjoy what they do.
What do students like best about the courses you teach?
I’ve been told that students feel like they learn a lot in my classes. They learn a lot about music teaching and learning, from both the theoretical and practical perspectives. I try to prepare students for the real-world of the music classroom, but I also try to challenge their thinking and give them a vision for the best music education possible.
What has been your greatest success while teaching here?
In looking back over my years at DePaul, I am most proud of those students who started off with little background, experience, or skills in teaching, and throughout the course of their studies, they develop into excellent teachers. When our graduates go on to get jobs and, in turn, send us their students, it completes the circle. It’s a joy to watch my students develop into successful teachers.
What makes DePaul different from other universities?
The fact we are in Chicago makes a big difference for DePaul. We have opportunities to partner with all of the major music organizations and draw on the resources of the city. In addition to the “nice” factor I mentioned above, there is an entrepreneurial spirit among our students, faculty, and administration. We are willing to try new things, and there are fewer layers of bureaucracy here than most institutions. People are flexible and unafraid of change—DePaul is a place to grow.
What would you say to prospective students considering DePaul?
If you want a great education, taught by first-class professors who love teaching, come to DePaul. We care about giving you an excellent education, and will do everything possible to help you develop to your potential.
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