Celebrating my Jesuit Education- Why it sets me apart…
“What sets you apart?” When faced with this question, I know my response immediately. “ My Jesuit Education ” I reply with conviction. Interviewers usually stare back at me with blank faces, probably having expected my answer to have something to do with one of the bigger sections on my resume. In our world of self-made millionaires and networking on steroids, where you pursue your undergraduate degree is often overlooked. I explain to those who ask this question the values I hold near to my heart, the values that were used as tools to shape my college education during the most transformative years of my life.
“Cura Personalis” or the Jesuit mission to care for the whole person is what I start with. Every institution cares for its students in a materialistic sense. This is displayed by million dollar libraries, lab facilities, and recreation centers. But what about emotional or spiritual well being? I explain that at Jesuit institutions all over the country these two often neglected aspects of the human persona are illuminated. Loyola University Chicago not only encourages, but pushes its students to grow in their spirituality; no matter what deity or spirituality they cling to. The core curriculum requires multiple classes in theology, philosophy and ethics to allow students to be eligible for graduation. Whether it’s Roman Catholicism or Introduction to Buddhism there are courses offered in virtually every belief system.
During my time at Loyola I have been encouraged to attend to my spiritual life; I have been invited to and participated in countless masses, retreats and service opportunities. There is a push at the university I call mine to connect with a higher being. Unity of heart, mind, and soul was integrated into all aspects of my undergraduate experience making me more just, kind and knowledgeable.
Another noteworthy component of the Jesuit Education is the concept of “Magis” which goes hand in hand with the motto of the Jesuits, Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (AMDG) translated to “For the Greater Glory of God.” Hard work is not just an option for students attending Jesuit institutions, rather a way of life. These higher learning institutions such as Loyola, Marquette and Saint Louis University instill a unique work ethic in all of their students. I have learned to work always to the best of my ability, but to never become self righteous. Magis translating directly to “more” or “greater”, is about freedom and the restless desire to become greater to serve others. To do better, to be better, to strive to be the best.
Above all else, my Jesuit education has taught me to always be a woman for others. Through my courses, extracurriculars, and time spent in my spirituality, I have truly learned how to become a servant leader. I am eager to share my gifts with the world and to pursue justice. I yearn to help the poor and marginalized, to use my education and skill sets to impact the world. Us Jesuit educated persons place ethics at the forefront of our work. Nearly all Jesuit schools are in or near major cities, this is not a coincidence. The Jesuits set up their institutions this way, to be close to those most in need. Calling Chicago home for the four years I spent at Loyola University Chicago has not only given me the opportunity to become a scholar, but the opportunity to impact my community. At my time at Loyola I have been shaped to be a driving agent of change; whether that is in my professional or personal life. Everyday I always actively try to challenge the status quo and reflect critically on moral and ethical issues. Not only asking how, but why.
It’s tough as you can imagine for me to relay all of this information to the one who may have asked me this question. I know when I answer “What sets you apart?” I exude passion and authenticity. So whether you’re Jesuit educated already, or looking to go down the path toward higher education I challenge you to examine your values, recognize where you have the opportunity to grow, and if you feel so called to embrace everything a Jesuit education has to offer. I’ll end with this, ladies and gentleman, as we say here at Loyola University Chicago; Go forth and set the world on fire.
