Category: Reimagine

LUC PSA Wrapping Up the Semester With Service Work in Pakistan

LUC PSA Wrapping Up the Semester With Service Work in Pakistan

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Kiran Foundation is a Non-Profit organization that is imbedded in the reality of Lyari, an area that has been through immense pain and turmoil, but is resilient and largely misunderstood.

“We provide education rooted in the awareness and understanding of mental health and wellbeing by building safe and happy learning environments where children and their families can not only heal through their traumas but also flourish.”

“We nurture mothers and caregivers along with their children, and build safe and happy spaces where they are free to grow and thrive together. We develop positive habits in children from a young age, with the aim to nurture them into kinder, more mindful individuals.”

“We go beyond the ideas of conventional education, and incorporate elements that help children as well as the adults develop a deeper sense and understanding of themselves and others, enabling them to regulate their thoughts and emotions. The beauty of our education system lies in the fact that we engage parents and caregivers (especially the mothers) in the learning process as equal partners. Without the active involvement of the mother, our job is only half-done.”

Children give what children get. The abused have the tendency to become the abusers. This is the ‘Cycle of Abuse’ that has plagued the world at large, and areas like Lyari in particular. “We believe that the only way to reverse this cycle is to engage people in activities that help them direct their energy towards a purpose that is bigger than their pain.”

Our visit to Kiran Foundation was an eye opening and enriching experience. Our PSA executive board fell in love with their mission since day one, but visiting the Foundation in person was powerful and meaningful. There were bright colors everywhere, children smiling and laughing while learning and playing cricket, girls battling guys in basketball, and so much more. Kids ran up to us and gave us warm hugs, which melted our hearts.
Alhumdullilah, this has been eradicated and the neighborhood is much safer in present day. Residents are able to go about their normal everyday lives.
Kiran Foundation gives the underprivileged children of Lyari a noble opportunity to learn, along with their mothers, so they can be women the children can look up to. These children are able to go from Lyari to the top preliminary schools in Karachi, and dream of attending some of the top universities in the world such as Harvard and MIT all because of this foundation. We are very excited to support Kiran Foundation and work closely with the children to give them the resources they need to reach their dreams. 
We are grateful for the amazing donations of all these books by Asim Ali and our Executive Board. We cherish members like you!
Loyola Ranks in Top 10 for Female Students in STEM Programs

Loyola Ranks in Top 10 for Female Students in STEM Programs

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What is a stem field? College and university degree programs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are considered STEM degrees, and they are in high demand across many industries. It is common to find most male students to typically outweigh the number of female students in most STEM fields; however, recently many colleges have sought to balance this idea by getting more female students into mote STEM programs.

For bachelor’s degree and above, female recipients increased at nine of the 10 largest such programs between 2012 and 2016. In fact, six of those STEM programs now award at least a third of those degrees to women.

We should definitely acknowledge this amazing increase our school represents. About 50% of our Loyola graduates were females in the STEM fields. This is a significant amount and being in the top 10 is truly incredible!

LUC PSA raises over $1500 for Dam Fund in Pakistan

LUC PSA raises over $1500 for Dam Fund in Pakistan

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The Loyola Pakistani Students’ Association strives to recognize and alleviate the struggles endured by those in Pakistan, while raising awareness about its culture and beauty. Setting new goals every semester to raise money for those who are underprivileged in Pakistan, PSA decided to help provide for the Dam Fund in Pakistan. 

Since the recent election of Prime Minister Imran Khan, Pakistan has created a mission to raise as much money as possible for the dams in Pakistan. According to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), Pakistan will dry up by 2025. Pakistan touched the “water stress line” in 1990 and crossed the “water scarcity line” in 2005. The initial fear was that the country would reach the absolute water scarcity line by 2025 if the right decisions were not made at the right time. That time passed long ago. Water availability per capita in Pakistan has depleted to an alarming level. Past governments did little to deal with this massive crisis as it approached. 

Through many service events, PSA has raised over 1500 dollars and recently donated this to the Dam Fund in Pakistan. Just this past semester, events such as ‘Biryani Party’, ‘Lassi sales’ and the well known ‘Shaadi Mubarak’ contributed to this and through the help of its many members, were able to accomplish this goal. Shaadi Mubarak (Happy Wedding day!) was the largest event here at Loyola in November with around 200 attendees that recreated and experiences a ‘mock’ Pakistani weddings, ranging from the decor, food, dances, rasms (Pakistani wedding traditions), to even having a bride and groom play as actors! The purpose of this event allowed for students of all backgrounds to learn about the Pakistani wedding traditions and experience the excitement of it. It was a night to never forget, filled with colors, elegance, and love.

This is a very proud accomplishment of not just the Pakistani Students’ Association, but for Loyola as well. Loyola University creates learning communities that reflect the rich diversity of our global society and this is what truly makes the learning experience one of a kind.

Loyola opens ‘Flex Lab’ to Accommodate for More Lab Space

Loyola opens ‘Flex Lab’ to Accommodate for More Lab Space

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GREAT NEWS for all of us science students… Loyola is planning to create new labs to be utilized by students from various science majors on North Broadway Street, between Bar 63 and the Life Storage building.

Turns out, Loyola had bought this building in 2011, but it was just used as a storage area until it was torn down this summer. Now, plans are undergoing to construct additional lab space to house students from different science departments. The construction has begun the last week, and the final building is expected to be finished by this July according to Peter Schlecht, the Assistant VP for campus planning.

This has been such an important construction plan, as there has been increasing need for more lab space over the past few years. The estimated cost of the lab is about  $4.7 million and will be at 6335 N. Broadway St. Because it is a ‘flex’ lab, it won’t be restricted; thus, it won’t limit or exclude any of the sciences.

We have such a high enrollment in the science department here at Loyola, so having this flexible lab will make things at Loyola much easier and give the science department much more ease in accommodating large number of students.

 

Of course, this doesn’t mean that multiple departments of the sciences will inter-clash — scheduling for lab use and which courses will take over will be all planned out.

The goal is to make this easier for students and faculty members, but also encourage interdisciplinary research and learning among our science department. Hopefully, this building will allow students to work among different fields aside from their won and learn from each other with this new cooperative learning environment.

Some argue that its great that Loyola is investing a new flex lab to accommodate for these spaces, however, there are other things the money should go towards, especially if these facilities already exist.

It may be awhile before labs can actually be used, but this is a good direction the University is headed towards creating more integrated spaces for students and faculty members which will hopefully encourage learning and research opportunities.

How to Stay Focused in Class

How to Stay Focused in Class

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Focus

One of the most difficult thing I have faced in college is staying attentive and focused during my classes. Because I am a commuter, I try to take the earliest classes possible so that I can go home before before it gets dark. So yes… I take 8:15 a.m classes, and yes it can be quite difficult. I thought i’d share some tips on how to stay awake and attentive so that you can pay your money’s worth and actually pay attention in class!

  1. First and foremost, you need to stop those allnighters. Yes, I know sometimes its extremely necessary, but time management is key. You need to learn to balance your time throughout the day so that you don’t have to pull an allnighter. Getting good sleep is the KEY to success in classes.
  2. Eat a healthy breakfast! Many students skip breakfast but it is extremely important because it keeps you energized throughout the day and avoids unhealthy snacking.
  3. Avoid sitting with friends. I know class can be fun with friends around, but if you notice yourself not paying attention when your friend is next to you, just establish it between the both of you that it will make a difference in both of your performance in the class.
  4. Put your phone on silent and keep it in your bag! This is one of the biggest distractions because after going through all of the other distractions, your last resort is your cell phone. It is definitely difficult at first, but either sacrifice it for an hour or get a bad grade that’s stuck with you forever. Your pick.
  5. Take notes, ask questions, have a goal. You need to focus your attention to what you need to know. Ask yourself questions, do I know this material? Don’t just copy what the teacher writes on the board, understand it.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and interact in the class, chances are, someone else has the same question. Also, a lot of the time, we over think what we want to know/say so don’t let that get the best of you.

 

 

Addressing Mental Health on Campus

Addressing Mental Health on Campus

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Mental health refers to our cognitive, behavioral, and emotional wellbeing – it is all about how we think, feel, and behave. Mental health can affect daily life, relationships, and even physical health. Mental health also includes a person’s ability to enjoy life – to attain a balance between life activities and efforts to achieve psychological resilience.

It is not possible to reliably tell whether someone is developing a mental health problem; however, if certain signs appear in a short space of time, it may offer clues:

  • Withdrawing from people or activities they would normally enjoy.
  • Sleeping or eating too much or too little.
  • Feeling as if nothing matters.
  • Consistently low energy.
  • Using drugs more than normal (including alcohol and nicotine).
  • Displaying uncharacteristic emotions.
  • Confusion.
  • Not being able to complete standard tasks, such as getting to work or cooking a meal.
  • Persistent thoughts or memories that reappear regularly.
  • Thinking of harming one’s self or others.
  • Hearing voices.
  • Delusions.

Almost 1 in 5 Americans experiences mental health problems each year (18.5 percent). In the United States, in 2015, an estimated 9.8 million adults (over 18) had a serious mental disorder. That equates to 4.8 percent of all American adults.

A large proportion of the people who have a mental disorder have more than one.

In the U.S. and much of the developed world, mental disorders are one of the leading causes of disability.

Mental health is subject to some disorders such as anxiety, phobia, OCD, PTSD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, etc.

To address mental health on Campus, Loyola will be holding a circle session on campus!

3:30-5:00pm | Tuesday, January 22
Regis Hall, Multi-Purpose Room
Co-Sponsored by Student Government of Loyola Chicago, and featuring the Wellness Center

Individuals will meet and gather in a circle. Circles are a restorative justice practice that foster open dialogue, honesty, and attentive listening. Circles are a way to build and sustain communities based on authenticity, honesty, and empathy. They may also be used to provide healing and closure after a difficult group experience.

Privacy is a crucial component of the OSCCR. All information shared through mediation or other conflict resolution services will be kept private, with two exceptions: 1) If there is mention of a serious violation of the Community Standards or law, a staff member would be required to act upon this information as appropriate and to ensure the safety of the community. 2) If a staff member becomes aware that someone may be in danger of serious, imminent harm, they would be required to address the situation as appropriate to ensure the safety of the community.

A Winning Weekend

A Winning Weekend

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What a weekend it has been! From Nick Jonas performing a burnin’ performance, to Loyola making it to the sweet sixteen, to Loyola’s Pakistani Students’ Association holding an amazing event, to Hannibal Buress getting kicked off of stage! It all happened this weekend, and it couldn’t have been better.

Nick Jonas came to Loyola and fans were in so much excitement. Nick Jonas performed old classics to new ones and the crowd went wild, singing along to every lyric.

The next day, comedian Hannibal Burress was kicked off the stage here at Loyola University after joking about priests molesting kids. Before getting kicked off, the comedian shared an email he received asking him to refrain from cursing– topics including sexual assault. After an extended 15 minute break, Buress was allowed to return to the stage and continue his set. Students expressed how they were “shocked how he can say this at a university performance even after told not to.”

In addition, Loyola University’s Pakistani Student Association held an event called “Explore Pakistan” on Saturday evening. Over 200 students attended and enjoyed the celebration of Pakistani culture. Pakistani food, music, and colorful decorations done by Afrin Designs captured the bursts of colors and blooming of Spring time. All proceeds went towards Doctor’s Hospital in Pakistan. The event had live food stations, performers, dinner, and dances. “It was truly an unforgettable night.”

Students at the event were also in attendance at Loyola’s incredible win! Cheers ran across the entire campus as all students celebrated the win and making it to the sweet sixteen! Clayton Custer’s jumper took a friendly bounce off the rim and in with 3.6 seconds left, and 11th-seeded Loyola beat Tennessee 63-62 in a South Region second-round game Saturday night. The Ramblers (30-5), who won the Missouri Valley tournament, broke the school record for wins set by the 1963 NCAA championship team.

Loyola will play the Cincinnati-Nevada winner in the regional semifinals Thursday in Atlanta.

Loyola is headed to the round of 16 for the first time since 1985, when it lost to Patrick Ewing and Georgetown.

That was also the last time the Ramblers made the NCAA Tournament.

 

‘2017 Was Sooooo Last Year’

‘2017 Was Sooooo Last Year’

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It’s crazy to think that 2018 is already here. It feels like just yesterday I was in high school with my 5 minute commute back home. One more year to graduation, deadlines approaching, anxiety rising, and one last year of my journey at Loyola.

Winter break was not as eventful as I thought it would be, not to say I didn’t enjoy it. Most of the time, I was trying new recipes, studying for the GRE, attending weddings and parties, volunteering at Community First Medical Center, and stalking LOCUS to check for open classes. It was the time I was able to actually reflect on my 3 years at Loyola and realize how quick things are approaching.

I was able to positively reflect on things as well. As stressed as I am about the graduate school deadlines, GRE exam, taking 19 credit hours, and my overall health this year, I am motivated to strive and do my best in all of these things; one thing for sure though, is that I must prioritize my health. A lot of times, we get so carried away with school or work that we forget to take care of ourselves or don’t really care at that point, but please, if there is anything I would like for all of my current/past/future Ramblers to do this year is to always prioritize your physical and mental health. It is something we don’t talk about often, and don’t realize until it is at toll. There will be moments where you stress, or are unhappy; that is not to say that everything will always go in the direction we don’t want them to, but when they do, let them. I have accepted that things do happen the way they are planned to happen, and rather than hurting myself or my health, do something fun. Get your mind off of it, and just go with the flow. I had many moments where I would start panicking and stressing, but instead of sitting there crying and looking at the thing that was stressing me out, I went out, bought myself some ice cream or went to the gym and got my mind off of it. Sometimes, I would just face time a friend too, as long as I find some sort of distraction.

Take care of yourself first; it won’t be worth it, trust me. I made the mistake before during my 1st and 2nd year of College where I wouldn’t take care of myself and just did whatever was needed to be done. I realized, in those moments, I wasn’t truly happy, nor was I myself. I was forcing and convincing myself to be something or doing something that wasn’t me, and in the end, all I got of it was MORE stress and complications as a consequence of not taking care of myself first.

Be smart, but in the sense that will benefit you first. Trust me, you’ll live a more experiential and happy life if you live life like Dory from Finding Nemo 🙂

Loyola University Supports the Dream Act

Loyola University Supports the Dream Act

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In July, Senators Lindsey Graham (R–SC) and Richard Durbin (D–IL) introduced the Dream Act of 2017. If passed, this bipartisan legislation would:

  • Grant current DACA beneficiaries’ permanent resident status on a conditional basis and allow temporary protected status (TPS) beneficiaries, people without lawful immigration status, and people with final orders of removal the opportunity to apply for it.
  • Permit a conditional permanent resident (CPR) to obtain lawful permanent resident (LPR) status (sometimes referred to as getting a “green card”) if they go to college, have worked for a certain amount of time, or served in the U.S. military, in addition to meeting other requirements.
  • Provide a pathway to U.S. citizenship. A person would have to be a CPR for eight years before they could become eligible to apply for LPR status, and after about five years as an LPR, they could apply for U.S. citizenship.
  • Stay (stop) the removal proceedings of anyone who meets Dream Act requirements as well as young people over 5 years of age who are enrolled in elementary or secondary school.
  • Improve college affordability for undocumented youth and other immigrants by giving states the ability to provide access to in-state tuition or state financial aid programs like Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants.

This month, Loyola University Chicago encouraged students to send a message to their local U.S. Representative or Senator. These notes were pre-printed letters written on behalf of students who are directly affected by the fate of this program.

Over three days, 2,454 members of the Loyola community participated at the Lake Shore, Water Tower, and Health Sciences campuses. Most of them were students. In total, 7,362 letters were sent to 84 Senators and 297 U.S. Representatives—from a total of 43 states and territories.

As a Jesuit, Catholic institution, Loyola University Chicago firmly believes in the dignity of each person and in the promotion of social justice. The Loyola students and other undocumented immigrants who would benefit from the Dream Act were brought here as children and now represent a wealth of talent who are woven into the fabric of our communities. The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops are among the many organizations who join Loyola in support.

Many Loyola Students have been affected, including Students Zarna Patel and Cristina Nunez. Patel has been able to pursue her dreams with her DACA status. She looks forward one day to starting her own nonprofit, promoting better health education and access to care for underserved communities, especially women and children. Nunez receives a Magis Scholarship from Loyola, a highly selective financial aid program for students with DACA status. She is a powerful advocate for social justice, seeking opportunities and justice on behalf of all undocumented people.

The most important and effective thing you can do is to contact your representatives in the U.S. House and Senate, and urge them to pass the Dream Act of 2017. Loyola University Chicago encourages everyone to contact their members of Congress and express their opinion on the legislation, whether you support or oppose it.

To do so, you can contact your congressperson or senator with the following links:

https://www.house.gov/htbin/findrep/

https://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm

 

For more info on the Dream Act 2017, you can contact:

  • Loyola’s Student Diversity and Multicultural Affairs department provides resources for Loyola’s undocumented students.
  • Please visit the Undocumented Student Resources, or contact Tim Love at tlove@LUC.edu.
  • For more information about Loyola’s advocacy for the Dream Act of 2017, please contact Phil Hale, Loyola’s vice president for government affairs at phale@LUC.edu.

 

The Top 3 Greatest Things about Damen Student Center

The Top 3 Greatest Things about Damen Student Center

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This Wednesday, our new Damen Student Center was unveiled! There was a ribbon cutting at 9 am, and throughout the day there were dance performances, free samples from the new food court, games and prizes. It was a much anticipated day, as the process has been ongoing since its announcement when I was a freshman.  The reveal was definitely worth the wait!  Here’s a list of the top 3 BEST things about Damen Student Center!

1.  The new food court: In the old student center, CFSU, there was Rambler Room, a food court that had grilled foods, Mexican and sandwiches.  In the updated food court, there’s a brand new sandwich, soup & salad and pastry station (think of Panera). There’s also a pizza station, a burger station, many”grab and go” foods and snack foods. Besides the new food court, there is a new dining hall, Damen Dining.

2. The cinema: Damen Student Center has it’s own movie theater!  This movie theater will be the new place for the free weekly movie showings Loyola so generously offers.  Currently, Loyola shows newer movies (Django is next week’s film) in Crown Center or Galvin Auditorium. 

3. The pub-style sports lounge: In the basement of Damen, there is a pub-style sport lounge.  There’s a few big screen TV’s down there with a couple pool tables and some other games too.  It’s a really cool atmosphere, as it feels like you are at a sports bar or restaurant.  I definitely think this will be a huge hit, as the few times I’ve been there since Wednesday, it’s been packed!

I’m so happy the new student center was revealed when I still have a year left here at Loyola.  It is absolutely amazing, so I will be sure to get a lot of use out of it!