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The beginning of a new academic year is a time to celebrate fresh starts, reassess habits, and set strong intentions for the year. Explore the following resources, amenities, and programs to stay on track academically, connect with the Loyola community, and make the most of your Rambler experience.
1. Take advantage of academic and advising resources
First- and second-year students can schedule appointments with First and Second Year Advising (FYSA), while juniors and seniors have specific academic advisors through their college or school. Beginning September 8, FYSA also offers Express Advising to assist students with quick academic questions.
Explore the Tutoring Center’s session schedule to find in-person or online tutoring and supplemental instruction sessions in numerous subjects led by peer leaders. Students can also meet with a Success Coach to create a plan for academic success or schedule in-person or online appointments with the Writing Center to receive feedback and build skills as a writer.
2. Join a student organization
Explore your passions and meet fellow Ramblers with similar interests through Loyola’s numerous student organizations and clubs. Find and register for activities, meetings, and events on LUCommunity.
3. Volunteer with Chicago-area Organizations
Find opportunities to live out the Ignatian tenet of being a person for and with others by engaging in service at local organizations, led by Community Service in Action. Volunteer opportunities include weekly service through the Loyola4Chicago program, drop-in service at St. Thomas of Canterbury Soup Kitchen, service clubs, and more. Learn more about volunteer opportunities at Loyola here.
4. Explore the neighborhoods around Loyola
Get to know the businesses that call the neighborhoods around Loyola home with the Ramblin’ Around Guide, published annually by the Office of Community Relations. The 2026 guide includes over 700 business listings from restaurants, grocery stories, local shops, and more, as well as information on accessing the city via public transportation, neighborhood study spots, and deals offered with a Loyola ID.
5. Prioritize your wellbeing
For currently enrolled undergraduates, memberships to Loyola’s recreation facilities, including Halas Recreation Center on Lake Shore Campus and the Fitness Studio on Water Tower Campus are included within the Student Activity Fee. Students can also get involved with intramural sports and group fitness classes to build connections on campus through fitness.
Loyola’s Wellness Center provides medical and mental health resources for students, including counseling, annual flu shots, and mindfulness training. The Wellness Center will host two upcoming clinics where students can receive flu shots:
- Tuesday, September 15: Terry Student Center on Water Tower Campus.
- Wednesday, September 30: Damen Student Center during the annual Wellness Fair on Lake Shore Campus.
- Students must bring their insurance information with them in order to receive a flu shot. Walk-ins are welcome or you can reserve a time.
Follow @LoyolaWellnessCenter on Instagram to see upcoming events and clinics.
6. Attend a retreat with Campus Ministry
Take time away by registering for a student retreat at the Loyola University Retreat and Ecology Campus (LUREC), hosted by Campus Ministry. Ramblers of all faiths and backgrounds are invited to experience nature, build community with fellow students, and reflect on their time at Loyola. See a full list of retreat offerings here.
7. Cheer on the Ramblers
Build your school spirit by cheering on Rambler athletics all year long. Review the Athletics game calendar to find upcoming games for all sports, including volleyball, basketball, soccer, and track and field. Loyola undergraduate students receive free admission to all regular-season athletic events. Follow The Pack on Instagram to find the latest giveaways and get involved in the Rambler student section.
