Reference Form

On behalf of the Center for Community Service and Justice International Immersion Programs, thank you for taking time to fill out this reference form for the above-named individual. 

Below is information about the criteria for choosing program participants.  Please Complete the reference form no later than 3:00 pm on Friday, September 12, 2008.  Please be aware that the applications will be incomplete without a reference.

CRITERIA FOR APPLICATION:

• Loyola’s International Immersion Programs, sponsored by the Center for Community Service and Justice, encourage applications from motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have a sincere desire to fulfill the programs’ mission statements, have a sincere commitment to social justice, and demonstrate maturity, emotional stability, a good sense of humor and are willing to learn very basic Spanish.  (The Encounter El Salvador Program also seeks graduate student, faculty, staff, and administrator applicants.)

• Each team member is asked to leave her/his comfort zones to benefit from the concrete experience of living and working in solidarity with the materially poor of Mexico and El Salvador.  These immersions involve new foods, demanding physical labor, and a loss of modern comforts to which we have all grown accustomed.  Prior to the trip we focus both on raising funds to bring to the communities we visit, as well as raising our awareness of critical issues of justice and faith through preparation, education, and reflection. 

• Since the experience is enhanced by a strong, collaborative, and focused team, members are asked to be able to set aside approximately 10 hours per week in the semester leading up to the immersion, and 3-5 hours per week in the off-semester, to the team and the project.  We ask that all applicants consider and commit to this time component, being aware of the many other curricular and extra-curricular demands of Loyola.  Every applicant should therefore consider whether s/he can make Project Mexico or Encuentra El Salvador a year-long priority and devote the dedication and time needed to meet the programs’ goals. 

• The team selection process endeavors to find a diverse and dedicated group who can share their varying beliefs and backgrounds to add to the team’s spirit.  Team members should be willing to assume leadership roles in facilitating reflections, organizing fundraisers, educating one another and the Loyola community, and various other responsibilities.  The application process aims to select a team with diverse experiences, motivations, and backgrounds. Spanish fluency, international experience, and/or extensive service experience are not strict or exclusive requirements for acceptance.

  Click here to fill out the Reference Form online

  Please click here to download a copy of the form (pdf.format) to give  or mail to your reference. Then it is your responsibility to bring the completed form to the CCSJ.