Academics

Northwestern has an academic reputation and it stands by it. Courses at Northwestern are manageable but still challenging. Full time students typically take 3-5 classes per quarter, so it's relatively manageable. Students in the sciences or journalism have it a bit harder, because in addition to regular class time, they need to spend extra time in lab sessions. The tough part is managing the quarter system; quarters are 10 weeks long, which means that the pace is much faster than it would be at a school on semesters. It just takes some getting used to, especially since exams tend to sneak up on you.

Good stuff. Fun stuff.

Yes, classes are hard and the quarter system makes them even harder. The quarters are shorter than semesters so before you know it you have mid terms and then finals! There is a lot of studying, reading, and writing papers so be prepared.

Northwestern has a very rigorous environment.

the students and professors at northwestern understand hunger for knowledge and desire for creation. they want to see success in all of the students, but that means that they will receive an amazing, rigorous education.

Classes here are fast paced and difficult. The professors are super helpful if you are willing to seek out help and there are many places to get assistance if you need it.