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!
First Night
First Night is a fun way to meet other Catholic students right before Wildcat Welcome Week. Thanks to everyone who was able to attend this year's FirstNight! Photos are here. If you are an incoming student and would like to join First Night in September 2023, email Crystal, our Director of Campus Ministry, here.
Three Weeks of Welcome
Join other Catholic students during the first three weeks of school for a variety of fun events to get to know the Catholic community at Northwestern. Each year the list of orientation activities at Sheil is posted here.
Sign Up
If you don't already receive Sheil's emails, get connected to the Sheil Catholic Center by signing up here. 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.
During the Year
The Sheil Catholic Center is here for you with space on Northwestern's Evanston and Chicago campuses. Learn more about the Catholic Student Association (CaSA) for undergraduates, the Graduate Students and Young Adults (GYA) group, and our campus ministry for law and medical students studying on the Chicago campus.
There is always something happening at Sheil. You'll discover Mass, Bible studies, service opportunities, and more.
Go Deeper in Faith
The Catholic Scholars Program is a two-year program for incoming students and all undergraduates 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. The deadline has passed for this year, but we welcome your application next year! Scholars receive a $5,000 stipend to pay for any costs associated with the requirements. Learn more here.
Nobody has more fun than us! I owe so much of my wonderful Northwestern experience to it, and I know that for years to come students will continue to find a home here. Because of the wonderful staff, shared values and principles, and the environment here there’s no other place I’d rather spend my time.