Each year, the University chooses a Common Text for all first-year students to read before arriving at Loyola. During Welcome Week, you will discuss this text with your academic advisor and students enrolled in your Messina course. It is important for you to read the book and be prepared to discuss the ideas presented in this study guide. The Common Text is considered “common reading” and may be included in Messina course discussions, tests, and assignments. We will also sponsor events throughout the year to address themes raised by the book. We invite you to get the most from your Common Text experience!

List of events

Friday, August 28, 9:15am-10:50am, Reitz Arena - Welcome Week Common Text Panel 

We welcome you, Loyola’s newest scholars-in-residence, to our intellectual community by focusing our attention on a text common to all of us. Loyola faculty experts will lead a conversation about Bruce Norris' play, its meanings and themes as well as the challenges it poses.  Join the faculty members and administrators on the panel as they address these serious questions that reflect and inform the human experience.

Friday, August 28, 11:00am-12:15pm, Locations around campus - Core Advisor Meetings  and Common Text Discussions

You’ve read the book and you’ve tackled the study guide.  Now it’s time to share what you’ve learned with your core advisor and your new classmates.  Other important information about classes and the advising process will also be covered.  Refer to the core advisor letter in your welcome packet for your specific room information.

Thursday, October 22 - Sunday, October 25 - Clybourne Park performed at McManus Theater 

Additional events will be posted by late August 2015!