Loyola has increased its recruitment in preparation for the start of the 2016-2017 school year.

Emily Bomersback, associate director for marketing and communications in the Office of Admissions, said the admissions office is putting forth its best effort to attract students to Loyola.

“During travel season, our admissions counselors hit the road and traveled to events across the country, as well as internationally, to spread the word about Loyola,” Bomersback said.

She said the admissions counselors strive to make a connection with their prospective students.

“The one-on-one attention is seen in all aspects of the recruitment cycle, from that first high school visit to the day the student moves into the residence hall,” Bomersback said.

Despite this, Bomersback said there are challenges when it comes to recruitment.

“A challenge that we often face is trying to paint the whole picture and the feel of being on Loyola’s campus for a student who hasn’t had a chance to visit yet. With over 4,000 colleges and universities in existence within the United States, students have a lot of options when it comes to higher education,” Bomersback said.

The athletic department is gearing up for recruitment as well. Brett Simpson, director of intercollegiate athletics, has already begun the process.

“Our coaching staff works diligently to recruit student athletes to Loyola who will be successful in the classroom and in competition. We mostly identify talented student athletes by attending competitions and showcases around the country where a coach can see and meet recruits in person,” Simpson said.

While it’s still early in the recruitment cycle, it’s confirmed that Loyola has 12 students ready to sign their letters of intent to enroll at Loyola. Simpson said these students will have the ability to join new sports that are growing rapidly.

“We have tremendous growth opportunities in men’s and women’s swimming and competitive cheerleading/dance who will begin their first seasons of competition in 2016-17,” Simpson said.

Gracie Palmer, popular and commercial music freshman, is a tour guide from the admission office, and takes time out of her schedule to show Loyola to prospective students.

“The students come from all over, but meeting a kid from California really helps me put my own personal spin on why I chose Loyola and how I can form a personal connection with the student,” Palmer said.

Palmer finds the Jesuit values to be the biggest part of getting students to come to Loyola.

“We try to make sure it’s more than religion; it’s a way of ideals and a way of life. The education of a whole person is key. We want everyone to feel welcome when they come here,” Palmer said.

When it comes to the music program, Palmer said her major is an asset to her.

“I usually have one music industry student on my tours, and I feel more in my element when it comes to talking about my major. Since the program is compact and inclusive, I can give more of a personal experience, especially on audition days,” Palmer said.

National College Decision Day will be May 1, and Loyola is looking forward to gaining some new wolf pups to welcome to the Pack.