Loyola University Chicago  -  Loyola

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Loyola University Chicago Summary

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As the largest Jesuit institution in the country, Loyola is a major piece of the city of Chicago, and vice-versa.
The 9,000+ undergrads of Loyola have the Windy City at their fingertips, allowing them to experience the restaurants and nightlife of Chicago while they take a range of classes. Loyola’s mission of educating well-rounded students manifests itself in a comprehensive core curriculum – students are required to take 15 classes in 10 different areas of study – which some view as a burden and others see as an opportunity.

Loyola’s undergrads predominantly hail from the Midwest, and over 60 percent are women. Though Loyola is a Jesuit university, the school has a significant gay population (notably among men), and students report widespread acceptance of those who may be at odds with some of the church’s specific teachings. With more than 170 student organizations on campus, including a number of service-oriented groups, there are a plenty of opportunities for any student to get involved both on and off campus.
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Loyola University Chicago Review

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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.”

See all 61 Loyola University Chicago Reviews

Loyola Quotes

Maria
Accounting
Senior
My Professors know my name. I ran into my philosophy of ethics Professor who I have not seen in three years, and she ran up to me with a huge smile and said hello, addressed me by my name and asked how I was doing, I was very impressed.
Sean
Computer Science
Sophomore
There is a moderate party scene at Loyola, but if you are looking for a school where you can find a party any night of the week…Loyola is probably not going to be your best choice.
Kristen
Other
Junior
As far as academics go, I think they are what you make it. There are brilliant students here who study their asses off and brilliant students who slack. There are also some kids who I wonder how they even got in.
Unigo gives you an inside look at colleges. Unigo is not endorsed by Loyola, and the opinions expressed on this website are those of Loyola students.
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61Student Votes

Campus Media

Newspapers:
Loyola Phoenix
Magazines:
Mosaic
Radio Stations:
WLUW 88.7
Blogs:
Loyola University of Chicago LiveJournal
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Loyola Photos & Videos

Top Loyola Majors

Biology, Business, Psychology, Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Social Sciences

Basic Loyola Info

Founded:
1870
Location:
Chicago, IL
Total Undergraduates:
9,950
Total Grad Students:
5,595
Tuition (in state):
$28,700
Tuition (out of state):
$28,700
Selectivity Rating:
Selective

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Best Thing About Loyola

The campus is gorgeous and relatively small class sizes let you interact with your professor; you're not just a number.
Kelly, Milford
Major: Marketing
The school really endorses being good people, I feel like everyone here wants to be a good person, and there is still so much fun to be had.
Adam , Lake Villa
Major: Journalism
the dorms/on campus apartments
Emily
Major: Computer Science
The tolerance of the students and the ability to grow socially, emotionally, and politically.
Sandra, Wauconda
Major: Psychology
It's in the heart of Chicago, with everything at your fingertips.
Emily , Milwaukee
Major: Other

Worst Thing About Loyola

Lack of green space, threat of crime in the neighborhood
Hailey, Edina
Major: Anthropology
Narrow minded people in the campus
Suga, Chicago
Major:
Though Loyola is located in Chicago, Roger's Park has little to offer in the way of excitement.
Patrick, Eden Prairie
Major: Computer Science
Having the professors force you to come to class, I pay them to be there not the other way around!
Amy, New Lenox
Major: Other
The inability for the school administration to keep on top of financial aid, housing, and organizational concerns.
Alexis, Western Springs
Major: Government
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