T.J. Wise

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

Look for the different experience – go for the culture of a city or a town, look at all the options you’re given, and never settle for less than the best.  Don’t be afraid to apply to – and then GO to – any university, anywhere, because you could be pleasantly surprised by what could come out of it.

2.      What was your first visit to campus like?

My first visit to campus was actually as a sophomore, during a study day sponsored by the Theater Arts department. We went on a college tour that day, one of the big group tours, and one that was given by an ambassador, actually.  It was a lot of fun – we had a good tour guide – and I definitely fell in love with the campus at that point, if not the entire school.

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

It absolutely has to be the size of the university.  With only 2700 students, it’s a small enough campus to be a close-knit community, but also large enough to provide students with opportunities for both research and internships.  And because it’s right in the middle of New Orleans, it’s almost impossible to get bored!

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

I think one of the best places on campus is the Monroe Balcony.  You have to figure out where it is (I’m not telling! But you’ll find it eventually.), but it’s always been my favorite place to sit and study or read, and it offers an amazing view of the city skyline. It’s a nice place to take a break between classes as well.

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

Admittedly, having lived here since I was young, I’ve always loved Mardi Gras and the six weeks of Carnival before it.  It’s the one part of the year our entire city comes together to celebrate, as one, a tradition that’s spanned almost three hundred years.

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

First off, the largest student organization is the Loyola University Community Action Program – usually referred to as LUCAP.  They do service projects not just every week, but almost every day of every week, from tutoring inner city students to helping build houses! They also run the annual Into the Streets service day for incoming students. Add to that the fact that almost every major organization on campus is involved in service in one way or another, and you could say that Loyola students are really into community action.

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