Loyola University Chicago Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Albert

Going back to my senior year of high school, I see how lazy I was and how I made excuses for the most simple things to do. With my first semester of college experience, I would have told myself to stop being lazy and to finish what is meant to be done in order to be more educated. The realization that learning was fun hit my head during my first semester of college. During my senior year, I felt compelled to get good grades without the intention of doing it because it was fun to learn. Ultimately, by focusing on making learning fun and exciting, the more I realized why I wanted to go to college in the first place. So if I could have spared my time for my first semester of college, I would have told myself in high school that I should apply to college with the aim of finding what makes me happy instead of what I believe will bring happiness to others because you have to learn to please yourself before anyone else. In the end, my first semester would have been less consumed with searching for reasons for my presence at Loyola.

Gregory

Having graduated high school and already completed my first semester of college, the main advice I would offer myself as a high school senior is to be prepared for anything. Be prepared to drink 6 cups of coffee studying for finals or to get Dunkin Donuts at 3 a.m. to take a break from writing that history paper. Be prepared to stretch out your clothing possibilities in order to put off doing laundry between Halloween and winter break. Be prepared to live on a diet consisting of cheez-its, salsa, twinkies, and ramen noodles. Be prepared to have the option to decide whether or not you want to go to classes on any given day, spend an hour debating, then realize class starts in 5 minutes. Be prepared to experience the most crafty, inexpensive ways of accomplishing daily tasks. Most of all, hold onto your hat and be prepared to live through the best experiences of your life in the following years.

Cristina

I would tell myself to stay focused on my goals and never let adverities get the best of me. I would remind myself of all the opportunities that await me and that procrastionation will hurt my chances of reaching my full potential. Experiencing college I would talk to myself about how important it is to not make excuses and to never be afraid of succeeding.

Rachel

The best advice I could give myself as a high school senior would be that schoolwork isn't everything. Part of college is also the social experience. When starting college, I, like so many people I knew, took college so seriously that I caused more problems for myself than I needed to do. After a few months, though, I found a balance between school work and social time. For myself, and for many other college students I know, this became the most important discovery for my college career. After learning this balance the stress of school seemed to disolve a bit, my grades improved, and I had more fun. Of all the things I learned in college about college, I think that this definitely helped me the most, and I wish I could tell this to my high school senior self.

Kelly

I would tell myself to make sure I'm choosing the college that is best for what I want to do with my future. I would also be sure to tell myself to keep my academics as a priority, because that is ultimately the reason why I am here- for a complete, well-rounded education in order to launch into the career I've chosen for myself. I would also tell myself to not be worried about making friends or getting involved on campus because there are so many opportunities to get involved and meet so many different kinds of people. I would also make sure to emphasize the importance of not limiting myself to get to know people exactly like me or get involved in things I already know. I believe college is the best place to really allow yourself to let go of your inhibitions and not be afraid to experience new things, because that's really the only way to truly learn more about yourself and others. In summation, I would advise myself to take the process serisously, but to also have fun and always look for an opportunity to learn.

Liliana

Dear past self, You have nothing to be afraid of when you get to campus. It may all seem daunting at first, understandably. I mean you will be in an institution of higher learning where something important and amazing is happening all the time. People are collaborating, you will feel the synthesis, each person interested in something, chasing one dream or another...you will love it. Just remember that whenever you need help, no matter how stupid your question may seem to you, ask! Most students will be glad to help you as well as any other staff member. You might miss home at first, this is normal, but get out of your room and go to events around campus. You never know who you might meet at these things, perhaps your new best friends....? (hint hint). Never leave papers until the night before (especially honors papers) and make yourself go to the library, it really does make a difference. A lot of things will seem new and exciting, you'll meet people you only thought existed in movies and want to try new things but remember to always stay true to yourself. And you'll be just fine.

Felize

College is different however not a huge difference from high school. There is much more freedom and time. I would highly suggest strating now to become very good a time management. With the structure in life right now it will be much easier to get use to it before the less structured life in college comes. Being able to manage time well earlier will also help to be more effective in college because you will not get as stressed easily. It is somewhat of a difficult transition and time management will help in the process. Academically, I believe that the high school you attended prepared you well. They taught you everything that you need to know academically to be well prepared for college. As far as the load and concepts of the work that needs to be done goes, it will be quite similar to the load of work and concepts you learned in high school. The dicipline in high school also will help because the standards will be set at the same par. All in all time management and being able to hold yourself accountable are both important qualities as you're making the transition into college.

Shaunda

I would tell myself to take your time. As a freshman in college you do not need to know exactly what you want to do. Get a feel for the classes first and during that year set goals for yourself. I know I switched my major once and it would have helped if I took a step back instead of rushing into things. Also have fun it does not hurt anyone and meet new people. This is the year you get involved because sooner or later graduation will come. Be open to new experiences. Remember that you do have to study still and things are a lot different then highschool. NO one is watching you to make sure your assignments are turned in. Its your responsibility.

Ramsha

Going back to senior year, I would advise myself to change some habits and choices about classes that I made. College requires a lot of time for classes because there is a lot more reading and a lot less homework. Since there is no one there to keep you in check whether you are doing your work or not, it is necessary that I do not procrastinate and schedule my time appropriately. I would advise myself to priortize and space out studying so that I am not overwhelmed but also am on top of everything. One thing that is necessary in college is time management and this cannot be learned through a course. This can only be learned by self-motivation and experience. If I changed my study habits during high school, then I would know which study habits work best for me during college.

Amy

make sure you know who your friends are and how you want to be treated. A lot of the friends that you have in high school don't carry over into college years. College really is some of the best years:)

Christina

I would tell myself to not be fearful of taking risks. Taking the plunge and going to school in Chicago has been one of the most difficult as well as most rewarding experiences of my life. I would tell myself that nothing can be gained by remaining within the same comfort zone that I've been accustomed to growing up. Choosing to attend school so far away from everything that is familiar is a terrifying undertaking, but I never would have become the independent, confident, and well-rounded individual that I am today by staying within my hometown. Sometimes unabashedly confronting a fear is the only way to grow, and growth not only helps you become a better individual but also helps you sympathize and understand individuals around you.

Deanna

I would have not slacked as much my senior year.

Kayla

College life can be a true test of courage, stability, and inner strength. I would continue encouraging myself to stay true to who I am, despite the lifestyle change, and to accept my individual status among the diverse quality of life here in Chicago. I would also fight to remain focused despite any struggles, and to do this I would readily prepare myself for the work load by joining more AP courses throughout high school. I would also discover new and different ways for studying to feel more prepared for exams. One struggle that I am finding, which I feel sometimes burdens my quality of hard work, is the cost of schooling. I feel that if I knew I could stay at Loyola to guarantee my success, I would feel much more confident about my educational experiences. I want to know that I can fulfill my dreams after my dedication, through graduate school as well. However, my hard work can't physically pay my bills. I would have looked up more ways to pay for schooling to satisfy these worries. Despite these things, I feel I made the right choice choosing Loyola to fulfill my life.

Amy

CSI's are not like the tv show, so don't expect that. Stay true to yourself and open minded because the bitchy girls will get a lot of crap in college for being too high school. Learn who your true friends are and don't waste too much time hung up on them when they leave

Natalie

I would tell myself to take a little time off just to explore; really get to know inside the campus facilities, the library, the Information Commons, and even though I know the city well, visit places I've never been to.

Stephanie

As a high school senior I was very naive and and sheltered, I was never exposed to any other ethnicity other than Mexican, all my classmates were Mexican. If I could go back in time I would tell myself to look for opportunities to expose myself to different cultures and ethnicites. It was hard to adapt to such a different environment I was very sheltered and I was not open minded. I would tell myself to be open to change. I would also tell myself to give my full effort when it comes to homework, as a senior I did slack off and I would tell myself to give it my all. Overall I would just tell myself to change my ways and to be different.

Jennie

Think before you act. High school tends to be all about doing. But, once you get to college, you are really challenged. You must make new friends at the same time as managing schoolwork. Social life is important, but make sure you figure out what your real priorities are.

Margaret

Relax. It really isn't that hard transitioning from high school to Loyola. You'll make friends and have an awesome time putting on a murder mystery show. Yes, this school is really expensive but it is worth the plunge. You will get a great job on campus tutoring high school freshmen and helping them stay in school. You will meet so many different kinds of people and ways of viewing life. These next four years really are going to change your life, for the better.

Elaina

I would tell myself that it is important to relax. Loyola is a great place where you will feel right at home. I would also tell myself to get involved. Don't be afraid to jump right into the college experience. Work hard, but make sure you make time to engage in your social life. Making friends will not only make your life fun, but will also help ease you into college life. Make sure you that you find people who share your sames values and interests. There are so many students it isn't hard to find someone you can connect with. Focus on academics, but realize that part of academics is embracing the whole college experience. Going outside the class room can be just as educational as going to a lecture. Finally, I would tell myself to take advantage of any opportunities that come my way.

Nathaniel

Don'y worry about how much it costs. You can always get loans and scholarships. The most important thing is that you think that the school you like is going to help you to succede at what you want to do. If you find a good college or university and work at it you'll be able to pay back the loans. Think of it as an investment in your future the same as buying a house or a car only the loans will be cheaper.

Roxie

To the parents, honestly I would go for the best eduation, but also consider the factor of cost. There are some great community colleges that offer just as great of an eduation as the bigger colleges, but are so much less expensive. To the students, remember to keep focus on your grades and not so much on social activities, because fiancial aid can be lost easily, and I'm sure parents hate paying thousands of dollars with no help. Remember to find a college that you feel comfortable in, and don't try to fit in so hard that you are doing things you wouldn't normally do. Also, drinking and doing drugs may seem cool, but it will keep your focus off of college and you will go downhill fast. Who cares what everyone else is doing? Atleast one day you will have something to show for how you spent your years. Just remember to never give up, even when something seems impossible to accomplish. After all, I'm sure a few doctors, actors, and musicians once thought their dreams were once impossible too.

Melisa

The best way to choose the right institution is to visit its campus. There has to be a feeling of warmth, and content while you're on campus otherwise the student will not enjoy attending classes. The first time I visited Loyola I felt as if I belonged. That day I could clearly picture myself attending classes, and walking around campus in my spare time. Two years later, and I still feel the same content as I walk along the green paths to study or just sit in a quiet spot and observe Lake Michigan's tides. As for the best college experience my advice is to follow your own path. Each of us comes to a certain college/university searching for something, and it's found by attending lectures, movie screenings, religious ceremonies, etc. Due to a class assignment I attended my first Christian Orthodox service as a European Muslim. I found it not only educational, but fascinating. Four years seems as a long time, but it goes by quickly. The best thing is to work hard, but also enjoy those years because we all transition from a teenager into an adult.

Amanda

Always visit before making a final decsion. Weigh all your options and never settle. Talk to people, and always ask questions; everyone is willing help. College is a great experience if you make it one. There is several ways to get confused just stay focused.

Maggie

I would tell parents and children to look at many options, to look at schools they wouldn't expect themselves to go to, and to travel to a place that is different from home. I would tell them to take risks, and take themselves out of their confort zones because in that sort of situation a person can grow so much more. It is important to also consider how to financially swing a school, but I also feel that if a student really feels drawn to a certain school, money should not be the only factor keeping them from attending. In terms of making the most out of college, I would encourage students to stray away from the party scene and find close friends who can have fun without that stuff. It's been incredible to just have fun and find who I am without ever getting involved with the party scene. Also, I would tell the student to follow what they are passionate about and not what will make them the most money, then they will squeeze every drop of knowledge they can out of their classes and do their best if they are passionate about their classes.

April

My first piece of advice to both parents and students is to start early. Research schools and start campus visits as early as sophomore year so that the student can get to know which school he or she plans to apply to. Making an early decision can really help the student in the process of applying and finally going to college. The second piece of advice is to get the funds. No one wants to get into their dream school and not be able to go because of money issues. There are plenty of options for both the student and the parent including financial aid, scholarships, and loans. The last piece of advice is to milk your school! Join clubs, become the campus, use your professors, and make your face known in every school office. Your college is to serve you, get the most from it.

kenneth

When making the decision on a school, remember that you will not only be attending school, but also living in this place for four years or so. So find places that have a school right for you and that you would enjoy living in. If you are happy where you live, than you will learn much more than what is given in the class room, and your grades will reflect it.

Margaret

Plan, plan, plan. How are you going to pay for it? If you're going to use loans what kind and with how much interest?See when you will have to start paying them back. Make sure you visit the campus of the college you want ot attend and spend a night there if possibe. Don't go to a school just because it has a good reputation, it has to feel right to you.

Przemyslaw

Be open to all types of schools in any location. Try to think outside the box in terms of where the student will be attending because a great college experience is possible almost anywhere, so factor in other aspects of the environment. Consider what your career goals might be and assess how practicle the school will make it for you to achieve these goals over 4 years. Parents: trust your children and don't fear their sudden independence. Students: always remember your values and who you are, not how you fit in among everyone else and what others' expectations are. You know better than anyone else what kind of person you are, so don't allow prejudices and your own presumptions about college to keep you from doing what you want and expressing yourself.

Megan

When choosing a college, the most important thing you can do is visit it beforehand. If you don't like it when you visit, you won't like attending school there. What are your hobbies? If you like the outdoors, go to a school in the country. If you prefer concerts & shopping, go to a city school. You will only be happy if you are able to do the things you love. It's also important to make sure that the school offers the exact major you want. That may seem obvious, but many people overlook it! In order to make the most of your college experience, balance is everything. If you party all the time and ignore your schoolwork, you will either have to do a ton of cramming before finals or you will do very poorly in your classes. If you are studying all the time and don't have a social life, you will be stressed and unhappy. However, if you are able to balance the different areas of your life, college will be one of the best experiences you will ever have.

Elizabeth

Always go an visit, try to stay over night with someone if you can. talk to real students about the campus and activities.

Kate

Choosing the right college is important, because the right school helps a student establish a sense of self and where they belong in the world. The school's reputation will follow you so getting the best degree will help you down the road. The school's reputation will also help you get internships while you are still in school which are necessary to finding a job in this economy. In addition to paying attention to the professional side of school, it is also important to feel at home on campus. Find a campus you like and with the weather you prefer. I love my school, but hate cold weather. I do not get to enjoy the campus as much because winters are so long here. The campus is beautiful but the ammount of time I get to fully enjoy it is diminished because of its location.

alexandra

Go somewhere you actually want to be and actually want to succeed. Just because the school is prestigious doesn't mean it's the right fit for you.

Jessica

Don't worry about finding that PERFECT college on your first try. Plenty of people transfer after their freshman year. Instead, apply to all the colleges that interest you and go visit all of them! Ask lots questions at each and see if you can spend a night there with a current student. When you get to college get out there and meet people. Make lots of friends, talk with all your professors, join a club or two. Knowing as many people as possible will make your college experience better. And of course, study hard! School work comes first ALWAYS! But make sure you make room for a social life too! You'll need it- just don't overdo it. Do everything you can to advance your career and overall, just have fun! It's the best 4 years of your life.

Christopher

Make sure your ready to go to school. Dont just go to school because that's what your friends are doing or what your parents want you to do. If your not ready to go DON'T. You will either fail horribly or not enjoy yourself at all. It's your life so lead it!!

Nicole

I would visit the school and ask some of the students how they like the school and about their experiences. I would also eat on campus and explore what is around campus to make sure that you will enjoy the environment that you will be in. Also, I think it is important to know what you are in for so that way there are no surprises. I think that it is important to get involved with school activities and to do things on campus even if it is only once or twice a semester. I also think that it is very important to develop a relationship with your professors, and it can be hard because some classes only meet once a week and so on. But these relationships become invaluable when you need recommendations or networking for jobs, etc.

Marina

Choose your school wiseley. Make sure you understand what you want to get out of your college experience. If your more concerned with getting the right grades choose a school that is not too much based on the campus social life and appearance. Yet if what you are going for is the whole social college life experience then you may want to choose a school that focuses more around the college sports and social atmosphere. That will make or break your whole college experience so choose wisely!

Kristen

My first advice that I would give to students is to choose a college that you feel comfortable and at home. Adjusting to the college experience is hard enough, but having a college that you feel comfortable makes it easier. Another suggestion is to not focus on your major to intensely. When I was a freshman I came in as a Chemistry major and drastically changed to a Theology major. In college, students change immensely. More than likely, students will change their major or intended career path. Choose a school because you would be proud to say you went there. My advice to parents is to make sure the child feels comfortable and happy where they are going. Try not to force a particular education, career path, or school on the child. The same advice I gave to the student I would give to the parent, be proud to say your child went to that school. Make the most of the experience by trying new things. Everyone is new, not just you. Try things you never thought you would do such as sports and clubs on campus. You might discover a new you!

Aleksandra

When you start thinking about colleges, the first thing that most students want is to get away from family. I remember thinking that being on my own would be amazing, and that I'd like to go to school in California or Colorado, at least a few states away. I ended up at Loyola, half an hour from home, and I wouldn't change that decision for anything. Having my parents a short car ride away is one of the best things I have. If I get lonely or something in school isn't going the way it should, I always have my parents there for support. So my advice for students is not to disregard the schools that are really close because in the end, that could be the perfect school for you. Also, get involved in extracurricular activities, especially if you're a commuter student. It's a great way to meet new friends. Be outgoing, go out with friends, don't be shy in class, introduce yourself to people in your class-it's the best way to make new friends and more likely than not, they want to do the same thing, but are afraid to.

Ramunas

Start early, focus on what your future goals consist of. Don't be afraid to apply many places. While in college work on your studies but enjoy yourself and build yourself your foundation for your future.

Nineveh

I often encounter what I like to call "pressuring parents." Parents should not pressure their children when it comes to chosing a certain career/school. There are times when parents truely underestimate their kids ability to make a solid choice in regards to their education. Sure, we need guidance. Yet, unfortunately, there are times when a parent's advice can turn into pressuring their kids into doing things ultimately leads to lack of motivation for the student. The same advice applies to students- I thought Pre-Med was the route for me because it would make my parents proud. After realizing the medical field was not for me, I decided to follow my passion and entered the Art field. I have never been more motivated and excited about school in my life! The best advice I could give anyone is to chose a school that suits their academic and social needs. Parents, be more understanding of your childs opinion. Students, chose as school that offers what you need to make the best out of your college expereince and enter a field you are passionate about. "When you do what you love, you will never work another day in your life."

Giancarlo

The best advice I can give to students and their parents when applying for college is doing as much research as possible into all the schools that one has in mind. Scheduling a visit to all the schools that interest the student can go a long way into getting a feel for what campus life will be like, plus parents can get input from campus staff/faculty about any concerns they may have. Also, it is important to make sure that financing for whatever college a student wants is adequately solved. If aid is not enough, too much debt could hinder your college experience. Students should find a school that gives them the resources they need to succeed academically and socially in order to prepare for their future career plans.

Joshua

First, I think, it is important that the student really wants to attend college. If the student does not really want to attend college for the purpose of learning he/she will find the experience dificult. The distraction around a college campus can easily deter a student from succeeding in their studies. So, I would say that the most important thing for students and parents to tackle is if they really want to attend college to learn and not just for an experience. Failing out of college can really hurt your future and the ability to return to the classroom later in life.

Joyce

Students should attend all classes possible. Once you slack and slip behind in class, it is hard to catch up.

Amanda

A student will learn to adapt to just about any social atmosphere. Focus on academics and job prospects, the rest will fall into place once you get there.

Samira

I would let your children choose the college that they feel is right for them, regardless of the price. It's your child's future, and they should be able to attend a school that will enable them to get the most for their learning experience. Since college is a time for students to find themselves, I would recommend attending liberal arts schools so that the student has the flexibility to change majors or minors as they change their interests in life. My college is also in an urban area. My mother was somewhat doubtful about me going to school in a large city like Chicago, but a college in an urban area is convenient and is filled with lots of diversity. This is something else I would advise students and their parents to think about as well when choosing a college. I am now attending a school that was not my first choice, but after thinking about all of the conveniences and possibilities my campus has to offer, I can honestly say that I do not regret my decision. Get involved on campus. Talk to people. Go to parties. Be a go-getter--experience everything!

Leeann

Students: Make sure you visit many schools and attend a class on your visit, if possible. Also, apply to several colleges (even ones you may consider "long shots"). That way you will be CERTAIN that you are attending the school that is best for you and, even if you decide you would rather be somewhere else, you have a better idea of where you may want to transfer. Parents: Help your student make the choice that's right for them but still give them the opportunity and freedom to choose for themselves. It is important that they are the person ultimately responisble for their college choice. Also, encourage your student to apply to several schools and apply early.

Dwayne

Do not beleive everthing that they tell you on the tours. I never went on a tour and I am fine with my choice. I hear the guides tell lies about the buildings, the food and other aspects of the campus. I think they are trained to do so.

Rikara

Finding a college is one of the greatest process y0u will learn about your self. Take the time to really examine your learning habits, things in your daily life, and the ultimate question of "What do you enjoy and what do you see as your purpose in life.?"These questions take careful thought and a huge support system . It is also imperative to be realistic but know that everythig is not set in stone until its done-So going to a college and shadowing even though you got accepted to your choice. Talking with students, the one besides the school pays to show you around. Don't be afraid to challenge any rejection letters- talk to admissions department. Don't be afraid to live and learn. College is what you make of it and also the process of finding yourself. Goodluck in all endeavors and keep the faith in God and through yourself.

sheriff

Loyola University is a catholic college. i believe that says it all for the parents. And for the students, Loyola University of chicago is situated in CHICAGO !! and also has a campus in the downtown region of chicago. Put your imagination to work.

Sarah

Advice to parents: -Allow your child to have a voice in where they go to school (it's nothing worse than having to be somewhere for four years you don't want to be). -If your child is very sheltered, begin to give them space and more privileges (the last thing you want them to do is crash and burn under the pressure of having complete freedom while at school). Advice to students: -If you're not a morning person, try your best not to have early classes. Getting up everyday for high school does not take the same amount of effort as going to an 8 am class in college. -Get the highest G.P.A and as much work experience as possible. If you don't, it will come back to bite you in the butt later (especially in this economy). -If you like to party and socialize, get your work done in advance (you would be surprised how much time it takes to recooperate from one of those frat parties).