Francis Salamanca

1.      Why did you choose Loyola?

Loyola offered me the assistance I needed with regards to developing an ideal career path that was fit for me and utilizing the resources necessary for me to do so. The faculty and staff at this school are more than capable of getting me to where I want to be in life both living and working successfully for a greater good. The community and atmosphere at this school have given me the opportunity to broaden my senses and see beyond the learning skills we get from the classroom and apply them directly into our world.

2.      If you could give one piece of advice to a prospective student about the college application process what would it be?

The school really just cares about your willingness to learn and that you are doing just that in your regular life. Even if your grades aren't completely perfect or if you've had a couple of incidents in your past, colleges just want you to succeed and become a better person in the process of doing so, much like Loyola has taught me.

3.      What was your first visit to campus like?

I came for a regular visit day and took a campus tour from a student ambassador. The ambassador, whom later became my mentor told me of the school and the fact that he was a music major greatly attracted my attention. He was very helpful and answered my questions.

4.      What’s the best thing about Loyola University?  Why?

I believe the best thing here are the students themselves. Students make the school what it is. They utilize the buildings, books, faculty, staff, and other resources here and make it their own which is why I firmly believe in the good of this university and the strength of college students to make a change in their world's current situation.

5.      What’s the best thing about living in New Orleans?

Uniqueness is just scraping the tip of the iceberg. Loyola has opened my eyes to the community of New Orleans in the post-Katrina era. The diversity of people and the friendly hospitable culture of New Orleans make it a place America loves to call their own where anyone with a tender heart, courage, and determination can succeed.

6.      Where is your favorite place on campus or in New Orleans?  Why?

I would have to say my favorite place in New Orleans would be Audubon Park. The sheer vastness of the park and all the places you can see make it truly an amazing spectacle. Also, it's located right across the street from Loyola, making it easily accessible and a place to go to relax, study, or meet with friends.

7.      What is your favorite Loyola or New Orleans event? Why?

Mardi Gras season brings about a whole slew of fun filled and sometimes, crazy chaos. As long as you learn to conduct yourself properly and are always aware of your surroundings, Mardi Gras season continues to always be a delight.      

8.      How has your time at Loyola enhanced/challenged you as a person?

Loyola has constantly brought to my attention the true nature of people and how they conceive of the world around them. These various freshman classes including the freshman seminars have taught me to not turn a blind eye to many injustices occurring both big and small in our societies.

9.      In what ways does Loyola foster involvement in community action?

Loyola's Community Action Program or LUCAP has a large presence on campus and calls students to give some of their time, talent, or treasure to serve people in the New Orleans area. Some classes consist of a service learning component where we are asked to engage with the community and learn of new and familiar routine habits.

10.  Tell us more about the organization(s) you participate in on campus?

I am an officer in the Loyola Asian Student Organization which is the University's only Asian American Student Association which raises awareness of the Asian student population on Loyola's campus as well as invites everyone to attend meetings or events to learn of our culture.

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