When asked what they like most about their college, most Loyola students are unequivocal in their answer. “The nice thing about Loyola is the fact that we're located in CHICAGO! On any given afternoon or evening there's always something to do, whether it be enjoying activities on the lakefront, visiting a museum (many offer student discounts or free days), or sampling food from one of the many restaurants around! If you'd rather stay on campus, there are frequent movie nights, club sports activities, and theatrical performances,” writes a freshman studying communications.
Aside from the Chicago nightlife, there are plenty of other college-oriented social opportunities awaiting students who enroll at Loyola. “Since many students have their own apartments, house parties are frequent destinations,” explains a sophomore from Illinois. “Not only that, but with Depaul, Truman, UIC, and IIT colleges all easily accessible off the red line train, infinite party locations arise. Greek Life is present at Loyola, though it is not as dominant as it may be in the larger rural college scene. They organize several campus events, but they are but one niche [among] myriad opportunities.”
The student body tends to be relatively tight-knit at this private Jesuit institution. One freshman Student Ambassador who feels that Loyola is “like a family” goes on to say that “[t]he people I have met are genuinely friendly and easygoing. The student body is motivated [and] hardworking, but we also like to have a good time. We get involved on and off campus and take advantage of all that Chicago has to offer, be it sightseeing, shopping downtown, or taking on various internships.” One issue that students consistently gripe about is the school’s disproportionate gender ratio: women outnumber men by nearly a 2-to-1 margin. There is also the perception that a fair number of the men who attend Loyola are gay, so it’s no surprise that Loyola women complain about the dating scene. “Dating is so difficult” warns a sophomore from Indiana. “Loyola is approximately 70% women, so the odds are already not in your favor. Moreover, a good number of the available men here are gay. There goes another 15%. If you're an eligible, straight man, Loyola is like a gold mine. If you're an eligible, straight woman, get in line.”
Academically, more often than not, students enjoy the advantages provided by smaller classrooms. “Some of my professors have been very personable and take the time to learn students' names, which I find important because usually the class sizes are pretty reasonable. However, some professors don't seem to care whether or not they call us by name at all,” writes a freshman studying journalism. Since class sizes tend to be relatively small, professors often work to ensure that undergrads actively participate in discussions. “Class participation varies from class to class. If everyone is comfortable with each other, then there is a lot of participation, but otherwise, teachers have to make people participate by making it part of their grade,” writes a Chicago native studying biology.
Through the institution’s academics and community, students are consistently reminded of what it means to attend a Jesuit institution. A sophomore English major explains that for many at Loyola, leadership and service are integral aspects of their education. “Loyola's motto is ‘Preparing People to Live Extraordinary Lives,’ and the school truly stands for learning more about yourself through serving others. Community service opportunities are everywhere in Chicago, and Loyola makes it easier for students to become involved through community service clubs and weekly soup kitchens. Service is not mandatory in any way, but many students still find themselves learning that they love helping others.”
