Here is the campus map and Visitor's Guide. Be aware that this campus also serves a Seminary community, therefore, please be respectful of the noted private areas on campus. The areas on campus which you will most often frequent are: building E where you will live, building D where you will have classes, and building B where you will eat.
Transportation
Where can I park?
Please park in the Purple Lot indicated on the campus map. When you check in with the person at the front desk, they will ask you more specific questions about the make, model, color, and license plate number of your vehicle (for security purposes).
Which airport should I fly into?
Flights can be booked into Chicago O’Hare airport (ORD) which is about 45 minutes away; Midway Airport (MDW) which is about an hour and 15 minutes away; or General Mitchell Airport in Milwaukee (MKE) which is about an hour and 15 minutes from USML.
How do I get from the airport to the USML Seminary?
American Taxi provides reliable and economical transportation from the airport to the Conference Center and you can schedule online before your trip.
Of course, Uber and Lyft are also viable options using their respective apps.
The main entrance off of Route 176 is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. The USML staff recommends using the back entry to campus from Route 45 (Lake Street). In your GPS, enter "Route 45 and Dunbar/University Mundelein, IL".
For any ride to USML Seminary, please use the address of the Conference Center, 300 Principal Avenue, Mundelein. The driver should drop you off in the Purple Lot, which is a short walk to the Conference Center Lodging and Registration/Building E on the campus map.
Where can I be dropped off?
If you take a taxi or another ride share option from the airport, please have the driver drop you off in the Purple lot indicated on the campus map. This address, 300 Principal Avenue, Mundelein, IL 60060, will take you directly to that parking lot. You will find the Conference Center Lodge(Building E) just a short walk from where you get dropped off. If you arrive before the Registration desk closes, someone will be there to assist you. If you arrive after the desk closes you can call security at 847-970-4815 to help you gain access to the building. This number is posted at the entrance to the Lodge.
About the Seminary
What are the USML Conference Center accommodations like?
All priests will be staying in the USML Conference Center Lodge(building E on the campus map). All of the guest rooms in the lodge were refreshed in December 2018 and are newly painted and have new mattresses, pillows, bedding, linens and towels.
Each room includes: • Two twin beds • Private bathroom • Towels • Free Wi-Fi
Guests will need to bring their own toiletries and hair dryer. Courtesy ones are available at the Front Desk should a guest forget these items.
If you have special needs i.e. mobility issues, back trouble etc. please let the IPF Staff know ASAP.
The official check-in time is after 4:00 p.m. If you will be arriving after 10:00 p.m. the doors to the building will be locked. It is still possible to gain entry into the Conference Center Lodge. Please call security at 847-970-4815. They will come and escort you into the building and get your key. Please let our office know that you will be late so security knows how many late phone calls to expect.
The official check-out time is 9:00 a.m. If your flight is later in the day, you may leave luggage in the Living Room until you leave.
Meal Information and Times
All meals will be served in the building marked B on the campus map. It is a short walk from the Conference Center. Be prepared for Chicago weather throughout the changing seasons.
Important notes: • Please take your room key with the dining tag on it to the dining hall with you. You will scan this for your meal.
• Once you have your meal, we ask that you sit on the south side of the dining hall (to the left as you enter) as the north side is for students and faculty. This seating arrangement helps Mundelein Seminary accommodate their entire campus community.
• Please remember that no outside food or beverage is permitted in the Conference Center Meeting Hall or Conference Center Lodge due to state health regulations.
Regarding dietary needs: Please inform the IPF staff if you have a special dietary need. IPF will submit this need before you arrive. The Food Services staff are very accommodating. Talk to one of the food services staff when you arrive for your first meal. • There is an extensive salad bar for lunch and dinner. • Each meal has a vegetarian or vegan offering.
Is there a gym on campus?
There is no gym on the USML campus. Through a special arrangement, IPF will have access to the seminarian's basketball court at two set times during the week.
Will there be WIFI?
WIFI is available to you while on campus. Access information cards can be found on in your rooms.
What do I need to bring?
You should bring an alb and a stole, a Bible, your Liturgy of the Hours book, your prayer journal if you keep one, a notebook and pen or whatever you desire to use to take notes. Dress will be casual. Program materials will be provided after arrival. Bring layers of clothing for times when the weather is cool.
What can I do on campus?
There is a beautiful 5K path around the lake. If you are out either in the morning or in the evening when it is dusk – you will need a safety vest. Please check that out at the front desk.
Can I arrive early or extend my stay?
This question is dependent upon availability at the Conference Center. Your program fee includes a five-night stay from Sunday to Friday. If you want to arrive early or depart later, there will be a per diem fee. More information is outlined in the memo you received from IPF. You would be responsible to pay the front desk directly. They can take payment by credit card or a check written to USML Conference Center.
About the Spiritual Direction Training Program
What are the requirements for the IPF Spiritual Direction Training Program?
• Attendance at each weeklong program session. • Completion of readings. • Completion of all practicum requirements. Further clarifications will be provided as the program begins. • The priest must also receive regular (usually monthly) spiritual direction throughout the training program and intend to continue this monthly spiritual direction.
What are the dates for the IPF Spiritual Direction Training Program?
Dates for the 2024-2027 Spiritual Direction Training Program can be found on this page.
Is it possible to switch between sections if one week doesn't work in my schedule?
Because of the housing situation and the assignment of spiritual directors, it is not possible for you to switch between one section and the other.
Should I get accepted to the program, when am I required to arrive at Mundelein Seminary and when can I leave?
• The opening session begins, Sunday at 7:30 p.m. Dinner is served from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. • The program concludes by 11:00 a.m. on Friday morning. • Transportation to O’Hare Airport (ORD) is about 45 minutes to an hour. • Transportation to Midway Airport (MDW) is about an hour and 15 minutes. • Transportation to General Mitchell Airport in Milwaukee (MKE) takes about an hour and 15 minutes. Additional time is needed during rush hour times.
How much does the IPF Spiritual Direction Training Program cost?
The cost for the 2024-2027 program is $3,700 per year ($11,100 for all three years). Invoices will be sent in the spring before the beginning of each new year; all payment is due by September 1 of each year.
The cost includes a private, air-conditioned room (linens included), meals, books, program materials, administrative fees, and spiritual direction.