If you attend or are currently looking at college campuses, I'm sure you have noticed that there are a variety of different types. Some campuses resemble the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, typically the northeastern schools, while some rock the brick buildings for a more southern feel. Besides the overall look of a school, some have a completely different vibe than others. For example the school that I attend, Boston College, is very religious while many other schools are not and have a completely different vibe. If you happen to attend a Jesuit institution like I do, I'm sure you will be able to relate to the list I am about to write. Here are the top 10 reasons you know you attend a Jesuit School.
1. There are constantly priests chilling around the campus in their robes.
No matter where you go on campus: the library, a class, even the gym, I guarantee you pass a priest wearing those fancy looking robes. And I'm sure your conversations about the weekend will cease when you come to pass them.
2. Around Christmas time, there are mangers EVERYWHERE.
Walking around your school around this jolly time, I'm sure you notice that there are an overwhelming amount of manger decorations. You can't walk 3 feet without seeing baby Jesus being held by Mary.
3. Along with the mangers, Christmas decorations will be everywhere.
One of the best parts about attending a Jesuit institution is the joyous feel of the campus when Christmas time comes around. This is basically everyones favorite holiday, and you can definitely see it. Lights on buildings and in rooms, the classrooms decked out with pictures of Santa and Rudolph. Overall, it gets you pretty excited for the upcoming holiday.
4. You get extended vacation breaks.
Let's face it. The Catholics celebrate A LOT of holidays. And for you, this just means more vacation time. Christmas Break, Easter, the list goes on and on.
5. Student Masses are full and very enjoyable.
A great part of attending a Jesuit University is the option of student masses. These masses are very casual, as most students show up in their pajamas or lazy clothes. Also, the priests direct their mass to the students so it is relatable and enjoyable. Furthermore, these masses are open if you would like to attend, no one is required to go. But, they are very full most of the time.
6. There are crosses on the wall in every classroom instead of clocks.
Although it may be frustrating to not know what time the class you are currently in will finally terminate, the crosses do add a nice decorative touch to each classroom.
7. On Ash Wednesday and other holy holidays, everyone is sporting their ashes.
You almost feel left out if you didn't go to the earliest mass on this day and get your ashes before everyone else did. Almost everyone you see is holding their palms, sporting their ashes, and the like. So make sure you go to an early mass so you're just like everyone else.
8. There are kneelers on the grass outside buildings.
For those of you who are strolling through campus and just feel like praying all of a sudden, I'm sure you have noticed these convenient kneelers placed outside so you can do just that.
9. You have to take a bunch of religious courses.
For most of us, we came to college expecting to be done learning about the Bible and religion and start focusing on your major. However, if you attend a Jesuit institution, there are probably core classes that you have to take. Many of these classes happen to be theology, philosophy, or other religion oriented classes so you can receive a holistic education.
10. Classes get cancelled for masses on holy days of obligation.
Any time a class is cancelled, it tends to brighten your day a little more. For us Catholic School students, we get these treats a tad more often whenever there are masses on these holy days.
