×
Three members of the Jesuit First Studies group spending summer studying Spanish in Guadalajara

Summer Experiences

Summer experiences are integral to the First Studies program at Loyola University Chicago. They help Jesuits in formation grow in their faith and become more knowledgeable, understanding, and empathetic ministers of the gospel.

Following the conclusion of the spring academic semester and the one-week ecology seminar at the Loyola University Ecology and Retreat Center, men in First Studies continue their formation with a personally customized summer experience, such as:

  • A Spanish language study and/or cultural immersion with ministry opportunities in Latin American countries such as Guatemala, Peru, or the Dominican Republic.
  • A cultural immersion with ministry opportunities in the Kohima region of India.
  • An immersive experience that challenges Jesuits in formation to grow in the experience of giving the Spiritual Exercises.
Two members of Loyola's First Studies community during a Summer Experience

A global classroom

International immersion and language-study are part of a 12-month formation experience for Jesuits in First Studies.

Consultation with one’s Province Formation Director and the local Superior of the community is required to discern a summer experience, though some students may stay in Chicago and continue with their academic coursework and ministry site depending on academic program requirements.

Consultation with one’s Province Formation Director and the local Superior of the community is required to discern a summer experience, though some students may stay in Chicago and continue with their academic coursework and ministry site depending on academic program requirements.