Symone French

1. Why did you choose Loyola?

I chose Loyola because of its reputation of excellence, wonderful location, and the attention that Loyola pays to its students. Whenever someone asks me where I go to school, they always boast about Loyola’s wonderful reputation and its high level of achievement. For me, that was very important in deciding where I wanted to go to school. Another deciding factor was the special attention that Loyola pays to its student body. During my college search, they made sure to send me emails, postcards, and phone calls. Those kinds of measures really stood out to me and let me know that they valued me and what I could bring to the school.

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

As an employee with Loyola’s Office of Student Finance, the piece of advice I would give prospective students is to make sure that your research on a college includes the financial part more than anything. Often times I see students who run into financial road blocks because they didn’t look into all the forms of financial aid available to them. College is expensive, but there are scholarships, loans, and other forms of aid available to students. Make sure you research all of them and find the one that best suits your financial need.

3. What was your first visit to campus like?

My first visit to Loyola was absolutely perfect. I was extremely nervous before I got there, but once I arrived, I knew that Loyola was the place for me. I didn’t go for President’s Open House or the Jazz Brunch; it was just a regular day at Loyola. I can remember going on the tour and seeing all the students laying out in the Peace Quad enjoying the beautiful New Orleans weather. My tour guide was extremely helpful and she really gave me a thorough overview of life at Loyola. The quality of the tour and the information she provided prompted me to become an Ambassador at Loyola and help prospective students the same way she helped me.

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

The best thing about Loyola is the campus and its location. Loyola’s Uptown location is perfect. Audubon Park is right across the street and Audubon Zoo is within walking distance. The streetcar runs directly in front of the school which makes going downtown and getting around Uptown very easy and convenient.

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

The best thing about living in the New Orleans is the food! Trying new restaurants is one of my favorite things to do and living in New Orleans has definitely fostered that habit. There are so many different things to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for Creole or seafood, New Orleans has it!

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

My favorite place on campus is the Peace Quad. It’s pretty much at the center of the campus and it’s a good place to catch up with friends in between classes. There are also a lot of activities held in the Peace Quad, which I think is cool. Third Fridays and Loyolapalooza are held in the Peace Quad. Overall, it’s just a great place to relax.

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

My favorite Loyola event is Third Friday. Every third Friday of the month students can enjoy food and entertainment and each Third Friday has a different theme. Third Friday is a great time to unwind with friends after a long week of classes.

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