New Students
University life is full of new experiences — some exciting, some difficult — and both faith in God and a supportive faith community can help ease the transition. The Sheil Catholic Center is honored to welcome you whether you are an incoming, prospective, or returning student. The Catholic community at Northwestern is warm and welcoming and our space on the Evanston and Chicago campuses are favorite places for students to study, pray, and socialize.
Whether you are confident about your faith or have questions, your fellow students and the Sheil staff are excited to walk with you on your spiritual journey. No judgement. Come with your questions, come as you are. We look forward to meeting you!
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If you don't already receive Sheil's emails, get connected with the community by signing up at the button below. You'll start receiving the weekly community e-newsletter with information about what is taking place among the Catholic community at Northwestern and opportunities to get more involved.
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Wildcat Days 2025
If you are a newly admitted student, please consider joining us for Wildcat Days! On April 7th or April 14th, stop by our Evanston campus at 2110 Sheridan Road between between 1:30 and 5:00 p.m. There will be students and Sheil team members to greet you and answer any questions, offer you a tour, and share some fun Sheil Catholic Center items with you!
Ignite 2025
Save the date of September 8th for Ignite, a welcome event for new students that takes place every fall. Meet other new students and the Catholic community at Northwestern. The day includes Mass, activities, and dinner. There are also activities for family members, should they be with you to help you move onto campus. Check out the photos from Ignite 2024 here.
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During the Year
There is always something happening at Sheil. You'll discover opportunities for worship, faith formation, and service among a vibrant community of faith. Learn more about the Catholic Student Association (CaSA) for undergraduates, the Graduate Students and Young Adults (GYA) group, and Sheil's campus ministry for students studying on the Chicago campus.
Go Deeper in Faith
The Catholic Scholars Program is a two-year program for Northwestern's Catholic students that gives you an opportunity to dive deeper into your faith, ask tough questions, and explore being an adult in faith. If you are accepted to the program, you commit yourself to the four facets of scholarship, prayer, service, and leadership. Scholars receive a $5,000 stipend to pay for any costs associated with the requirements. Incoming students are eligible to apply. Learn more here.
Sheil has been a beyond incredible place for me to come out of my shell, make friends, become a leader and better scholar, and, most importantly, more attuned to the beauty of God's presence in the world and in my life.