From Classroom to Community: My Loyola Maryland Experience

    Located in the heart of Baltimore, Loyola University Maryland is more than just a place to earn a degree; students, faculty, and staff come together to create an environment rich in learning and growth. As someone who has had the privilege of studying here for the last three and a half years, I've come to appreciate our university's unique aspects that make it stand out. One of the first things that struck me about Loyola is the genuine kindness of the people here. It’s difficult to put into words, but it’s a feeling that surrounds you from the moment you step on campus. From professors to fellow students, everyone is willing to help and support you. As I approach my final semester here, I feel bittersweet about graduating soon. While it's hard to say goodbye, I'm excited to embrace all the senior events and explore some hidden gems in Baltimore that I haven't had the chance to visit yet. 

The Student Body: A Diverse and Supportive Community

    Loyola’s student body is diverse, representing a variety of backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and talents. This diversity creates a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and encouraged to contribute. Loyola students are not just academically inclined; they are also committed to service and community engagement. This commitment is evident in the numerous volunteer opportunities on and off campus. I’ve had the chance to participate in organizations like Relay for Life, Best Buddies, Operation Smile, and Prevention and Intervention for Early Learners (PIEL). These experiences have allowed me to connect with others who share a similar passion for making a positive impact.

Subgroups and Subcultures: A Place for Everyone

    One of the most interesting aspects of Loyola is the variety of subgroups and subcultures that thrive on campus. There's truly something for everyone, from academic clubs and cultural organizations to athletic teams. The Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences (SLHS) program has been a meaningful part of my experience. I am a member of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSHLA), where I participate in events like tabling, and fundraising, and collaborate with schools and hospitals to support community engagement. I also mentor underclassmen in speech-language pathology with coursework planning.  The SLHS community is close-knit and collaborative, fostering an atmosphere where students encourage and inspire one another. I am so grateful for the people I've met and feel so fortunate to be sharing this academic journey with such incredible people. 

Faculty: Mentors and Guides

    At Loyola, the faculty are more than just educators, they are mentors who genuinely care about their students’ success. From day one, I’ve felt supported by professors who are not only experts in their fields but also approachable and invested in my personal and professional growth. The faculty’s dedication extends beyond the classroom, as they often serve as advisors for student organizations and research projects, further enriching our learning. 

Campus Life: 

    Loyola's campus is beautiful year-round, with cherry blossoms in the spring, vibrant greenery, and flowers in the summer, autumn leaves, and snow-dusted landscapes in the winter. The university’s Jesuit values are deeply ingrained in every aspect of campus life, emphasizing the importance of education, service, and holistic development. There's always something to do, whether it’s attending a basketball or lacrosse game, participating in clubs, or enjoying a quiet moment on the humanities porch. These experiences have made my time here incredibly fulfilling and have given me memories I will cherish forever.