Loyola University Chicago

International Student and Scholar Services

Student Life

 

Student Organizations

With over 200 recognized student organizations on campus, there are guaranteed involvement opportunities for any student.  Student organizations are formed by currently enrolled students sharing a common goal or interest and typically involve activities centered on themes of service/spirituality, hobbies/special interests, political/social issues, sports, culture/ethnicity, academics and honorary societies, or media.  For a full list of current student organizations, please click here.

Keep an eye out for the Student Organization Fair which happens each semester.

Global Mentorship Program

The Global Mentorship Program (GMP) is a student-led initiative designed to expand worldviews, improve intercultural communication and English language skills, increase confidence, and build networks of support for a more enriching student experience.  Once established, GMP student groups have five structured meeting times throughout the academic year, but also participate in any number of on and off-campus social events based on interest and opportunities for personal and professional growth.  Interested in applying or have questions about the program?  Email iss@LUC.edu.

Exploring Chicago Neighborhoods

The City of Chicago has over 75 distinct neighborhood areas, each with their own unique cultures and histories.  For students who are curious to explore off-campus but may be unsure of where and how to start, the Exploring Chicago Neighborhoods program is a great way to discover many of those diverse cultural and historical traditions while developing new friendships with students from around the world.  Each semester, we explore neighborhood areas such as Rogers Park, Pilsen, Hyde Park, Chinatown, and Andersonville among several others throughout the city.  For more information on this program please email iss@LUC.edu.

Coffee and Conversation

Coffee and Conversation offers the opportunity for international and domestic students to meet and get to know each other on a regular basis in a casual setting.  A new conversation starter is announced each week, although students are always welcome to talk about any topic that comes to mind.  Students are encouraged to explore different opinions and perspectives from their own in a safe space, helping to build relationships, mutual understanding, and ultimately, a stronger sense of community.  Coffee is provided!  For more information on this program please email iss@LUC.edu.

Campus Recreation

The Department of Campus Recreation strives to provide a diverse selection of quality recreational activities for individuals to pursue fitness, wellness, and leisure opportunities which enhance their personal development and establish habits for a healthy lifestyle.  The newly renovated Halas Recreation Center is located next to the Damen Student Center and is a part of the Student Complex.   Visit the Halas Recreation Center to make use of their exercise equipment, multipurpose courts, aquatics facilities, and group fitness classes.

Event Calendar

You will find a number of events happening daily across all University campuses.  Explore our University Calendar for a sense of the many activities accessible to you as a student at Loyola University Chicago.

Chicago, Rogers Park, and Our Favorite Activities

Chicago is home to:

  • 5 citywide music festivals, nearly 50 neighborhood music festivals and 35 neighborhood food festivals
  • 8,100 acres of green space with 580 parks and 26 beaches
  • Over 30 downtown and neighborhood parades
  • Approximately 369 landmarks and 46 historic districts
  • Over 225 miles of bike lanes and more than 13,000 bike racks
  • Over 3,000 bikes and 300 stations through Divvy bike sharing system

Did you know?

  • The title of, "The Windy City" was bestowed on Chicago in 1893 by New York Sun editor Charles Dana.  Mr. Dana was tired of listening to long-winded politicians boast about the World's Fair that was held in Chicago the same year.
  • Chicago currently has 2,704,958residents in its 228 square miles.
  • Only 58% of Chicago residents were born in Illinois. Twenty-two percent of Chicago residents were born in another country.
  • More fun facts are available here!

Rogers Park

Loyola University Chicago’s Lake Shore Campus is located in the heart of Chicago's Rogers Park neighborhood.  Visit this page for more information about things to do, places to shop, eat, and more in the Rogers Park neighborhood.

Our Favorite Activities

“Chicago is famous for its legendary contributions to music from the development of Chicago style blues in the early 20th century to being the birthplace of House music in the 1980s. While you are in Chicago, you must go see some live music! I suggest checking out places like the Green Mill or Buddy Guy’s for blues music or going to one of the many neighborhood and music festivals that happen each weekend in Chicago.”

    • Jason Obin, Director of the International House

“My favorite way to explore Chicago is through the city’s food scene. The best of the city’s history and diversity can be explored through its food culture. Hungry for Indian? Head over to Devon. Vietnamese? Argyle is a great bet. The city has an amazing array of unique restaurants that run the gamut from small family-run eateries to Michelin starred restaurants known the world over. Chicago is also known for great comedy! If you need a good laugh, grab some friends and take in an improv show at one of the many comedy clubs around the city.”

    • Marian Carlson, International Student and Scholar Advisor

“One of my favorite ways to enjoy the city is by visiting the city parks. There’s a small and quaint Japanese Garden in Jackson Park that is worth a visit.”

    • Akeya Porter, Senior Academic Advisor

 ‌