Noor Paracha Hayat Found Home at Loyola
Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work graduate Noor Paracha Hayat took an unconventional path to her social work degree, but it is one that ultimately led her exactly where she was meant to be. On May 6, 2026, Hayat addressed her fellow graduates, faculty, staff, family members, and friends as her school's student commencement speaker, reflecting not only on the challenges of earning a degree in social work, but on the resilience required to find the right academic and personal fit.
Before arriving at Loyola, Hayat spent time navigating academic programs across multiple colleges and universities, searching for a place where she felt both supported and inspired. That journey, though uncertain at times, helped shape her perspective as a future social worker. At Loyola’s School of Social Work, she found a community that affirmed her values and strengthened her commitment to serving others.
“Before I applied, I was looking at Loyola's program book and it said something like 'at a Jesuit university rooted in faith...' and faith is a huge part of who I am," Hayat said. "So when I got to campus and felt the warmth of the community I really noticed that. I'm a Muslim woman, but hearing church bells on campus and knowing that that faith was something that was celebrated here was so reassuring."
Throughout her time at Loyola, Hayat became known for her empathy, persistence, and ability to connect with others through honesty and compassion. Her experiences moving between universities gave her a deep understanding of transition, belonging, and the importance of meeting people where they are - an outlook that now informs her approach to social work.
Faculty and peers alike recognized Hayat as someone who brought authenticity and thoughtfulness into classrooms, conversations, and community spaces. Those qualities were evident as she stood before the graduating class, encouraging her peers to embrace uncertainty and continue leading with compassion.
“At a Jesuit university rooted in faith and care for the whole person, I was reminded that I mattered beyond my GPA, beyond my struggles, beyond my doubts. My professors didn’t just teach. They listened and created space for grace. For the first time, I felt truly seen - not just as a student, but as a whole person,” Hayat said during her commencement address.
Now, after earning her Bachelor of Social Work degree, Hayat plans to continue her education through Loyola’s Advanced Standing Master of Social Work program. For her, the next step is both a continuation of her journey and a reflection of the confidence she found at Loyola.
“I chose social work because I know what it feels like to feel alone," Hayat said. "People don’t always need fixing - they need someone who sees them, listens, and walks beside them with dignity and care. That is the kind of social worker I hope to be."
Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work graduate Noor Paracha Hayat took an unconventional path to her social work degree, but it is one that ultimately led her exactly where she was meant to be. On May 6, 2026, Hayat addressed her fellow graduates, faculty, staff, family members, and friends as her school's student commencement speaker, reflecting not only on the challenges of earning a degree in social work, but on the resilience required to find the right academic and personal fit.
Before arriving at Loyola, Hayat spent time navigating academic programs across multiple colleges and universities, searching for a place where she felt both supported and inspired. That journey, though uncertain at times, helped shape her perspective as a future social worker. At Loyola’s School of Social Work, she found a community that affirmed her values and strengthened her commitment to serving others.
“Before I applied, I was looking at Loyola's program book and it said something like 'at a Jesuit university rooted in faith...' and faith is a huge part of who I am," Hayat said. "So when I got to campus and felt the warmth of the community I really noticed that. I'm a Muslim woman, but hearing church bells on campus and knowing that that faith was something that was celebrated here was so reassuring."
Throughout her time at Loyola, Hayat became known for her empathy, persistence, and ability to connect with others through honesty and compassion. Her experiences moving between universities gave her a deep understanding of transition, belonging, and the importance of meeting people where they are - an outlook that now informs her approach to social work.
Faculty and peers alike recognized Hayat as someone who brought authenticity and thoughtfulness into classrooms, conversations, and community spaces. Those qualities were evident as she stood before the graduating class, encouraging her peers to embrace uncertainty and continue leading with compassion.
“At a Jesuit university rooted in faith and care for the whole person, I was reminded that I mattered beyond my GPA, beyond my struggles, beyond my doubts. My professors didn’t just teach. They listened and created space for grace. For the first time, I felt truly seen - not just as a student, but as a whole person,” Hayat said during her commencement address.
Now, after earning her Bachelor of Social Work degree, Hayat plans to continue her education through Loyola’s Advanced Standing Master of Social Work program. For her, the next step is both a continuation of her journey and a reflection of the confidence she found at Loyola.
“I chose social work because I know what it feels like to feel alone," Hayat said. "People don’t always need fixing - they need someone who sees them, listens, and walks beside them with dignity and care. That is the kind of social worker I hope to be."