May 8, 2026

As the semester draws to a close, our campus begins to shift in subtle, beautiful ways. The energy that once buzzed through study sessions, late-night conversations, and busy schedules starts to soften. Like the cherry blossoms that briefly colored our campus with their fullness, we are reminded that seasons of growth, challenge, and joy are never meant to last forever, but they are meant to shape us.

This time of year invites reflection. We look back on the moments that defined these past months, the friendships formed, the questions wrestled with, the faith deepened, and even the struggles that pushed us beyond what we thought we could handle. In University Ministry, we’ve seen countless examples of students showing up for one another, seeking meaning, and building a sense of belonging rooted in something greater than themselves.

For our graduating seniors, this season carries a particular weight. The closing of this chapter is not just about finishing classes, but about stepping into a new and unknown story. There is both excitement and uncertainty in that transition. Like the cherry blossoms beginning to fade and fall, this moment can feel bittersweet, something beautiful coming to an end. As you prepare to move on from the familiar rhythms of campus life, it may feel like you are leaving behind a version of yourself that was shaped here. Yet, just as those petals are carried forward by the wind, everything you have learned, every relationship you have built, and every moment of growth will go with you. This is not simply an ending, but a transformation, one that asks for both gratitude for what has been and courage for what is ahead.

At the same time, endings always make room for beginnings. Just as the blossoms fall to make way for new growth, the close of this academic year opens space for rest, renewal, and new opportunities. Whether you are returning next semester or heading into a new chapter beyond USF, this moment is an invitation to pause and consider where you’ve been, and where you feel called to go next.

As we move into this season of transition, may we carry with us gratitude for what has been, courage for what lies ahead, and a deep trust that every ending holds the promise of new life. Wherever this next chapter takes you, University Ministry remains a place you can return to, a community rooted in reflection, connection, and hope.

UM student leads tutors

The University Ministry Tutoring Program at the University of San Francisco connects undergraduate and graduate students with local Catholic schools to provide consistent, high-quality academic support and mentorship.

Now in its 23rd year, the program serves students at:

A dedicated team of USF student tutors provides weekly, relationship-centered tutoring across all sites. Support spans a wide range, from foundational math and literacy to advanced sciences, visual arts, and enrichment activities — all offered at no cost to families. 

We are currently recruiting new tutors for the 2026–27 academic year. If you’re interested in applying or for more information, please contact Program Manager Richard Alvia. 

Arrupe Immersions are local and global experiences designed to open participants' eyes to the realities of the world. Each immersion is constructed around specific social justice issues, where participants learn to recognize injustices in a different context, practice solidarity with marginalized communities, and allow those experiences to inform their vocational discernment. 

Immersion experiences will be held in Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, South Korea, and Hawaii. 

Applications are now available for students to apply for the next academic year. 

FALL 2026 DEADLINE: Friday, Sept. 11

Resumes Next Fall
University Ministry, Romero Room

Qmmunity will host Breaking Bread and Binary again in the fall. Questions? Email Rabbi Camille Angel.

Resumes Next Fall
University Ministry, Romero Room

The USF Catholic Student Fellowship will resume meetings in the coming academic calendar year. For more information, please contact Randon Ronquillo.

Resumes Next Fall
University Ministry, Romero Room

Jumma Prayer, led by USF's Muslim chaplain, Imam Sundiata Rashid, will resume its Friday afternoon prayer service in the fall. For more information, please come by or email the Muslim Student Association's co-presidents, Areeshah Farooq and Poya Moussali.

Resumes Next Fall
University Ministry, Romero Room

The student-led Orthodox Christian Fellowship will meet again in the fall to explore the Orthodox Christian faith and foster spiritual growth in the ancient Apostolic way. For more information, email our student leader, Christianna Yano, or our spiritual adviser, Fr. Kirill Sokolov.

Thank you for reading our bi-weekly newsletter. If you would like to submit content for future newsletters, please make sure to fill out the UM Newsletter Intake Form. If you have any questions about submissions and deadlines, please email University Ministry.

Content deadline for upcoming newsletter: TBD