Welcome to Loyola's department of chemistry and biochemistry. We hope we can share with you the exciting work that is happening in our department. This site will introduce you to the program at Loyola, as well as lead you to additional information regarding our faculty, research, and professional opportunities for our graduating students.
We asked some of our students "What is the best part about being a chemistry or biochemistry major?" and this is what they said:
Mike Barbato '20
Alyssa Hubal '20
Romie Azor '21
Chris Conquest '21
John Cottingham '21
Sabrina Daglish '21
Matt Savallo '21
Casey Clark '23
We asked some of our graduates "What is the best part about being a chemistry or biochemistry major?" and this is what they said:
- "The best part about being a biochem major and going through the science classes in general (for me) was being able to forge meaningful relationships with professors."
- "Getting to know all of you guys on staff over the years has given me motivation, help, insight and advice I truly don't think I could've gotten at many other schools. You are all so approachable and willing to help, and I think that is something to be proud of."
- "The classes were appropriately rigorous and did a great job of preparing me and establishing a foundation for MCATs. I can't speak for others (who are not on the medical path) but in my case, coming across so many familiar concepts when studying for MCATs made what is a monstrous test, manageable for me.
- "I think you're all cool and fun! But that may just be the inner nerd speaking."
- "I've got one darn good reason for folks to study chemistry/biochemistry at Loyola:;the availability and expertise of the faculty."
- "The chemistry faculty here at Loyola is extraordinary at providing mentorship, research experience, and additional academic help to students. Furthermore, small class sizes allow for interaction both inside and outside of the classroom, giving students many options/additional resources for learning lecture and laboratory material."
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"Personalized attention: since the class sizes are much smaller than at other universities, there are many more opportunities to foster relationships with your professors. They will know your name, be invested in your success, and are incredibly willing to help support you if you are struggling. The professors are incredibly approachable and communicative, and truly care about you as a student.
Community: a big concern of mine coming into college was that the science students would be very competitive and unable to work together. However, my experience at Loyola has been the exact opposite. The students at Loyola work together almost all the time, and there are many opportunities for community learning. We help support each other through the challenge of the classes and encourage each other to succeed.
Research: even though Loyola is a smaller school, there are more than enough opportunities for research here. Since it is possible to form personal relationships with the professors, it is easy to approach them and ask for research experience. Between chemistry lab TA's, SI programs, and one-on-one research, there are many opportunities to further the academic side of your resume.
Well-rounded education: since Loyola's core is so extensive, you can balance your education. After college, I believe that science students need more than just analytical techniques- being able to write, read critically, and approach problems in novel ways. Having both the science and the core education has truly enriched my college experience and made me feel very prepared for my future education."