Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, IL, USA

Reviews

Loyola University Chicago

Heather

a current student here
21 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
As a nursing student at Loyola University I was immediately enrolled in classes directly related to my major. The teachers for my nursing classes encouraged me to take initiative in getting involved early within the nursing field. They taught me that nursing is not just taking care of sick patients but taking on the incredible role of helping someone with their spiritual, mental, and physical health. Since I came to Loyola I have become extremely passionate about my chosen career due to the compassion and encouragement of faculty members and fellow students. I am truly excited to take on another year at Loyola.
Am enjoying being here
Loyola University was not originally my first choice for college, however, I have no regrets in choosing to attend. In fact, I believe that choosing Loyola was the best decision I could have made. I did not come here with any friends, however my Resident Assistant made it easy to enjoy activities around Chicago while meeting girls that lived on my floor! Throughout the year I found support and encouragement from both friends and teachers which helped me destress from an academically challenging schedule. It was also very easy to connect one on one with teachers because the classes were so small.
Bang for the buck
I believe that Loyola is worth going to regardless of cost because of the outstanding faculty and program for nursing. However, it is still very costly to attend. Although it will not be easy for me to find a way to pay tuition, I am willing to do everything in my power in order to be able to stay at such a wonderful school. If at all possible, I plan to enroll in Loyola's graduate school for a master's degree in nursing.
Tips for prospective students
Apply as soon as you possibly can if you think you might want to go to Loyola, this will help you get the most aid since scholarships are on a first come, first serve basis. Also, if you plan to attempt to get into the nursing program spots fill up quickly, so the sooner you apply the better. But you should keep one thought in mind academically, it is easy to get into Loyola but hard to stay. Loyola will continuously challenge you in order to bring out your best, however it will not be easy!
Great for these types of students
This school is PERFECT for nursing students! Loyola's nursing program is in the 95th percentile for the NCLEX.

Joel from IL

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have found that LUC not only teaches us, but make us think about situations from different points of view. The Jesuit Tradition is big on having students consider all the reasons behind making a decision and the events that cause certain situations. A good example of this is when I had to read the Odyssey and then argue whether or not Odysseus deserved everything that happened to him. It was interesting and fun. Half the time in class you don't even realize how much you are learning.
Am enjoying being here
Chicago is a great city-add Loyola and you have a match made in heaven (no pun intended). The school is always having events (block parties, tailgating before Volleyball and Soccer games... and more!) that are usually free to LUC students or at a discounted price (hey, they know we're poor college students). We also get U-Passes which allow unlimited travel on the CTA. The whole City is open to us. There is always something to do, even if it's wandering around downtown Chicago at night with friends, then going to the Cheesecake Factory.
Bang for the buck
It is slightly more expensive than some of the other private schools in IL (Bradley for example) but you have to remember that you are in Chicago and you are paying for that. But I believe it is worth every cent. And they are good about giving scholarships out. If you don't like the package they give you, take a parent in and talk to the Bursars office. They might give you more money.
Tips for prospective students
AP classes really help in the long, even if they are annoying and the tests sometimes evil. Also, don't be afraid when visiting to ask questions. If you see a student just walking around, 9 times out of 10 he or she would be more than happy to talk to you (this way you're not just getting the perspectives of students who work for admissions-not that they are different from the rest of the student body). Also, take an overnight and attend class-this will help you see what really happens. Oh and apply early as it can make a difference in the financial aid dept.
Great for these types of students
There are all kinds of students at Loyola. It's a very welcoming place. Rest assured you will fit in. And there are plenty of clubs/organizations to choose from. There really is something for everyone.

Marisa

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Loyola University Chicago prides itself in its ability to prepare people to lead extraordinary lives. I believe LUC does just that. LUC's professors are excellent, in fact, most have doctorates in their fields and are very knowledgeable. What makes these professors truly great is their desire to tranfer their knowledge to their students through their willingness to answer questions in and out of the classroom.
Am enjoying being here
What better place to spend your year than Chicago. Every morning students will enjoy their own private viewing of Lake Michigan along side of the hustle and bustle of a busy city. Students will receive the arts, culture, along with the college experience in their own oasis.
Bang for the buck
Overall, college has become unreasonably expensive and LUC is no different. Tuition at Loyola is greater than some other universities, however, you must weigh the education and experience received from this great school against the cost. I believe the benefits outweigh the costs.
Tips for prospective students
I would tell students to take advantage of all that Loyola has to offer. They offer a lot and it is up to us to find these opportunities.
Great for these types of students
Loyola suits the needs of all types of students. If a student is serious about the college experience then Loyola University Chicago is the place for him.

Mayra from Glendale Heights, IL

a current student here
9 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Although Loyola University is known for their magnificent pre-med and nursing programs I have to say that Loyola focuses on giving everyone a challenging but rewarding college experience. I am a college freshmen double majoring in Political Science and Business Management. I have found that there are very few classes if any that you can blow off. Teachers here give you the grade you really deserve as opposed to high school teachers. You might find that getting an A in all your courses may seem impossible but sometimes even getting a B is just as rewarding if not more. Overall, I love the faculty here and the academics.
Am enjoying being here
While I have to say Loyola University is not as diverse as I would like it to be I learned to enjoy being here. First of all, the campus is absolutely beautiful! Another positive thing is that its location allows students to explore and enjoy their newly found freedom to the fullest. Traveling downtown or going to the lake is quite simple. This also helps in case you plan to get a job out of campus. While I sometimes do feel outnumbered due to the fact that there are barely any Hispanics here, school organizations such as LASO help me feel more welcome. I feel like I know most of the Hispanic students here.
Bang for the buck
Loyola University is pretty expensive. However, the academic program offered here is definitely worth it. Many of the professors have the highest degree in their field. I recently had a professor say that our school is looking to compete with Northwestern's academic program. The dorms are pretty good except for Mertz Hall, which has community bathrooms. The one thing I do not really enjoy is the cafeteria food. The way out of this problem is to go to the Rambler room or go to any of the many restaurants nearby which sometimes offer student discounts. In addition, Loyola is very generous with financial aid.
Tips for prospective students
Do not take a class at 8:30 offered at the Water Tower Campus!One of the classes I would highly recommend is Human Values in Literature with Mr. Fruhauff. Overall, try to have an open mind about courses and balance out your schedule so that it fits your needs. Do not try to do too much in one semester but do try to get involved in extra curriculars. You will not regret it.
Great for these types of students
If you are pursuing pre-med or nursing this is definitely the school for you. However, the Business program is excellent too. It was recently ranked No. 22 on the Global 100 list by the Aspen Institute's Beyond Grey Pinstripes Survey. Another popular major here is Psychology.

Angela from South Beloit, IL

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The college application process is often very stressful, but also very rewarding as it encourages you to begin to discover who you are, through very small steps at first. The rest of the discovery can be unearthed while at college as students live through different situations that requires maturity and independence to resolve and through the core curriculum academically. The core curriculum embraces studies from diverse fields, whether you are studying the effects of humans on the environment or reading and analyzing a classic novel in English, the professors at Loyola are all experienced experts in their fields who are willing to give their knowledge and support to students both inside and outside the classroom. They are always encouraging students to email or visit office hours for questions or help and most professors will answer back within 24 hours, though often much sooner. I find that my professors carry a deep passion for their fields and they teach to infuse that passion and knowledge into their students. Loyola also encourages students to study abroad through the John Felice Rome Center or the Beijing Center, and do internships or research. My semester is filled with diverse and interesting classes that are taught by very experienced, passionate professors who are always available to help. Although Loyola is known for its exceptional pre-med and nursing programs, they do not only focus on those majors, but rather embraces the diversity of every student and work to provide the best experience for everyone. The academics alone is enough to outweigh the high cost of attending Loyola, yet there are even more benefits: you are studying in Chicago, one of the most diverse and historical city, you will be able to see the sun rise and set everyday on Lake Michigan, and you are surrounded by new friends who share the same interests and passions as you.
Am enjoying being here
I have met many exceptional professors and made new friends since I started at Loyola. The school host events all the time and it is always a great time to meet other students. Chicago is such a great city to study in and downtown is only a few stops away on the CTA and a shuttle ride away on the school shuttle. The Lake Shore Campus is not situated downtown, so we can enjoy the softer, quieter days by the Lake and then Loyola's other campus, The Water Tower Campus is right on Michigan Avenue downtown. The school shuttle travels back and forth between both campuses and you can pick the campus your classes are taught in based on who you are: the hustle bustle city lover or the modest calm of Lake Shore. Because we live and study in Chicago, we now have the entire city to explore and embrace.
Bang for the buck
Although Loyola is an expensive school, I feel that the quality of the academic program and the passion and expertise of the professors makes it all worth it. Loyola is a well-respected university with an outstanding faculty that provides many opportunities for studying abroad, working internships, or engaging in research.
Tips for prospective students
Sign up for the earliest orientation because you will register for classes there. If you are the earliest group, you have first pick on the best classes, professors, and times. Socially, you will be plunged into a community with tons of people you don't know, but be open, be friendly, and maybe some of the people in that group will one day become your closest friends. Also, the professors are there to offer you help, so take it. Get to know your professors and don't be afraid to ask questions or for help when you need it. The professors are very friendly and are always willing to help you. Apply early to Loyola and you might be able to get more financial aid as the scholarships are on a first come-first serve basis.
Great for these types of students
Loyola offers a rigorous program for those in pre-med, nursing, or in a related health-care field. Yet any student in any major can have a challenging and satisfying college experience because the focus is evenly given to students in all fields. Loyola is a community of passionate learners and professors, therefore you will quickly find a place to belong, no matter your differences.

Jason from Chicago, IL

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
loyola has a gorgeous campus,, and is in a quiet, diverse area of a great city. being a relatively expensive, private institution, however, means that the make-up of the university is not nearly as diverse. the small size and great reputation will ensure that you receive an extremely personal and through education.
Tips for prospective students
spend some time on campus before comitting to loyola. there is a certain and unmistakable environment on this campus that may not be suitable for everyone. there is no doubt, however, that the education you receive here will leave you prepared for the next step.
Academic Rigor
the classes are difficult, but because the school is so small, professors are able to provide a great deal of personal guidance and assitance.
Dorm Life
dorm life here is above adequate, and it is in a great city. you are bound to have fun.
Food and Dining
i am a vegetarian, and there are plenty of options for me. most are satisfied with what is made available.
What to do for fun
chicago is a big city and with such a great public transporation system it is all at your fingertips. sporting events, concerts, bars, etc. you name it, chicago has something that can be found within your price range.
Bang for the buck
loyola is an expensive school. this depends on your situation.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
the chapel is gorgeous.

Alexis from Kenosha, WI

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Loyola is located in one of the greatest cities on Earth, Chicago! There are so many opportunities open to students here, not only at the school itself, but in the whole city from prospective jobs to internships to volunteering to just having fun. Loyola prides itself in its openness to the diversity of its students in their races, religions and backgrounds.
Academic Rigor
The work load varies from class to class depending on whether its a CORE class, a major class, or a minor class - but the academic rigor really depends on the type of student you are. Loyola's professors are really good at their jobs and they always want to challenge their students to try their hardest and really think about the topics they are learning and not just in a classroom context. Because of this, most classes at Loyola are small so that each professor can get to know their students and work with them to better their chances of success.
Dorm Life
The freshmen dorms here are structured in a way that allows students to really get a feel for college life - they are open and the RAs work hard to bring the students together to promote a friendly environment in which students will feel comfortable making friends, studying and spending their days and nights in. Upper classmen dorms aren't as open, but still provide a homey feel, they are almost like real apartments which help students get a feel for real life situations. Living in a dorm your first two years is required and honestly it's awesome because its an experience all in itself and Loyola does an amazing job to make sure everyone enjoys that experience!
Food and Dining
There are three dining halls on campus and many other dining destinations and food courts throughout both campuses. You pay for a meal plan your first two years here and in my opinion, its a little pricey for what you get, but don't get me wrong, the food is amazing! And Loyola does an awesome job of providing many varieties of foods to match almost all diets and are very accommodating to those with dietary restrictions. Also, many of our head chefs are award winning (our chef from 2014 even won Hell's Kitchen!), so the food is always amazing!
What to do for fun
You're in Chicago!!!!!! There is something fun to do around EVERY corner! Many times there are FREE events and festivals happening all over the city, especially on the weekends. You can always find something to do in Chicago. Loyola also has many fun events from Greek Life philanthropy events, to athletic events and every February/March we have a weekend called Colossus in which we get an artist and a comedian to come perform for us! You will never be bored in this city or at this school.
Bang for the buck
This school is shockingly expensive, but that's because it's a private school and Loyola has to pay for many things including maintenance, professors and other expenses. However, Loyola does give a lot back to the community and provide quite a lot of financial aid to students to make it more affordable. Also, Loyola is considered a Baby Ivy school, so you're really paying for a genuine education.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Felice's Kitchen (formerly known as Felice's Roman Style Pizza) is the only student run pizzeria in the nation! It's amazing - it's not really Chicago style pizza, but it's pizza is still addicting - they also serve pasta, salad, soup and smoothies. They have Late Nite every Friday and Saturday and students pile in to get a late night snack all weekend.

There are bunnies EVERYWHERE on campus, and when its warm out, you can often find the bunnies having 'duels' and you'll see lots of students standing around them watching it. It's always pretty fun to watch!
Great for these types of students
City Lovers
Hard workers
Nursing/Pre-med oriented students
student activists/volunteers
Clubs and Activities
There are so many clubs and activities to do that you will be overwhelmed at your first Org Fair - but you'll have a chance to choose the ones that really interest you and get fully involved! And if the club you want to join isn't on campus, you can start one! Between activist clubs, religious clubs, cultural clubs, intramural sports, fun clubs and Greek life, everyone can find their niche!
Greek Life
Greek Life is very present on campus with almost 20 groups that pride themselves on their volunteering and philanthropy events. Loyola is also a NON HAZING school, so that shouldn't scare anyone who wants to join!
Campus Safety
Our Campus itself is pretty safe, but we do live in THE most diverse neighborhood (Rogers Park) in all of Chicago and sometimes the surrounding areas can be sketchy - however, our Campus Safety as well as the Chicago Police Department (CPD) are always on top of their game and aware of what is happening on and around campus and always keep students up to date on all situations.

Claire from Chicago, IL

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
LUC has been great for me. I'm a theatre major, and I adore the Department of Fine and Performing Arts. They have personal counselors for you within this department, and they all work hard for you to succeed. Taking CORE classes really rounds out my liberal arts education, while I still get to learn about every aspect of my chosen field. I'm learning so much about myself and the world around me here.
Am enjoying being here
I love it. It has a nice, neighborhood feel, but it a mere shuttle ride away from downtown. I've had classes at our Water Tower campus downtown, and I would go for a quick shopping break after class almost every week! The Lake Shore campus is beautiful and RIGHT on the water- which you won't find anywhere else in Chicago.
Bang for the buck
College is too expensive; Loyola is no different. However, I got a $10,000 scholarship with my acceptance letter and more came later. I'm not rich by any stretch of the imagination, but I can still afford LUC.
Tips for prospective students
Take lots of CORE classes freshman year, so if you change your major later, your classes will still count!
Great for these types of students
Nursing and biology is big here, but I love our DFPA family. I highly recommend this school to students interested in the arts, because the faculty is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful in that field.

Zoe from Chicago, IL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Loyola is a University that is willing to go above and beyond for their students. Administrative faculty and Professors are prepared to help elevate a students skills for their choice of job opportunity. Loyola will give you the confidence you need to advance in your academic career and future.
Tips for prospective students
Don't be afraid to approach Professors. It may be intimidating at first but the few heart stopping moments are worth valuable time with any Professor. Another tip, if the University offers a list of resources that are on campus, utilize them. They want you to succeed as much as you do.
Academic Rigor
There are times, depending on classes and class load, that tests and homework can be overwhelming. It ultimately benefits you but be prepared to do some studying.
Dorm Life
People at Loyola are exceptionally helpful and caring. It is easy to talk to complete strangers. Loyola has great RA's that help students and the rooms are generally really nice. It can be expensive but worth the security and friends.
Food and Dining
Food is normally great but having the same meal repeatedly becomes tiring. Sometimes it becomes easier to walk to the food places off campus just for a change.
What to do for fun
There are multiple clubs on campus that meet regularly. It is awesome to connect with other people who have similar interests. The campus is also relatively close to shopping centers downtown. There is a bus that can drive you on the weekdays. The sports games are great to attend.
Bang for the buck
I have complete faith that I have chosen the correct school for me. The Professors are extremely helpful and have become an invaluable resources for recommendation letters and advice. I know I have advanced in a positive way both as a person and in my academics. Loyola is a wonderful place to go to school. I appreciate all it has done for me.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Loyola has recently renovated a basement hang-out area that has multiple tv screens, pool tables, ping-pong, and as of late, a bar. The screens provide a great, safe place to watch the super bowl with your friends. It provides a great area to hangout and not worry about homework or upcoming tests.
Great for these types of students
If you are extremely religious but not necessarily Catholic don't feel ostracized. Loyola offers multiple places for different religions to worship in peace. This offers a place to meet people who have a similar connection.
Clubs and Activities
There a tons of clubs on campus that cover a gigantic range of ideas and activities. It is easy to commit to a group and meet regularly. Intramural sports are always playing, clubs are meeting and even traveling to other countries. The options are seemingly endless.
Greek Life
The Greek Life on campus is thriving. I personally don't participate but I have multiple friends that continually tell me how much fun it is. They love having a group of people to regularly meet with. Our campus doesn't have Greek houses but that doesn't stop Greek Life from coming together. Each Greek group has their own charity that they raise money for. They work hard and have contributed a large amount of money to their respective charities. It is a great activity to participate in if you are interested.
Campus Safety
I feel completely safe on campus. There are emergency buttons all over campus that can be pressed in safety compromising circumstances. The response time is impressive. The dorms also have multiple card swiping entrances. I feel completely safe no matter where I walk, even alone.

Fernando from Berwyn, IL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The classes here tend to be very difficult. There are high standards that every student is held to. Studying should be a main priority if attending Loyola. Loyola focuses on getting every student to take various core classes to expand ones knowledge on multiple levels. There are also four Core Values that help broaden ones horizons on Civic Engagement, Diversity, Spirituality, and Justice.
Bang for the buck
Loyola gives a fare amount of scholarships. The price for coming here is a mass amount but financial need is something that is sincerely considered.
Great for these types of students
Its Nursing program is incredible. It's a difficult program to get into and very difficult to stay in but the students I know that are nursing students have such a passion. All that's needed is determination and hard work. There are also multiple Pre- Med students that's to Loyola's wonderful College of Arts and Science. The courses are also difficult but it helps determine whose willing to go through with it.