Student: Maranda Archer

Where are you from?

Decatur, IL

What do you like to do?

I enjoy exploring Chicago and finding good places to eat; I love traveling and spending time with friends.

How are (or have you been) involved in Community Service & Action?

I have volunteered at the St. Thomas of Canterbury Soup Kitchen since my freshman year, and this year I am one of the student leaders.

Why do you engage in service and action?

I engage in service and action because I love helping others and because it makes me feel good. The feeling I get from helping others motivates me to continue helping them.

What is one of your favorite stories from your experiences of involvement with service and action?

My favorite stories from the soup kitchen are when volunteers tell me how much they love coming to the soup kitchen each week and how they've built such good relationships through it.

How do you envision living out our mission of building greater good past your time at Loyola?

After graduation, I hope to continue volunteering at the soup kitchen when possible, but I think that no matter where I end up, I will seek out ways to volunteer my time serving the less fortunate.

How are you involved at Loyola outside of CSA?

I have had many different positions in Campus Ministry (retreat leader, Loyola Companions, Agape Latte advisory board). I have worked for Residence Life since the summer before my junior year.

What is your favorite place on campus?

My favorite place on campus is sitting on the ledge next to the lake.

What advice would you give to an in-coming student at Loyola?

Try your hardest to come out of your comfort zone and get involved on campus because it's the easiest way to make good friends.