Admissions

Learn about the transportation schedules of your nearby buses and the university shuttles. Knowing these will help you get around much more quickly and efficiently to go out and have fun! Also, don't be afraid to ask upperclassmen anything about their experiences in classes. They'd love to tell you, but keep in mind that not everyone will like the same classes- everyone has different interests!

There is, without a doubt, a specific type of student the University if looking for. It's looking for students who think outside the box, for students who don't see a glass half empty or half full, but rather completely filled (half water and half gases). Most applying to this University will have stellar scores and GPAs, so make sure to stand out in the essays. Be daring. Be bold. Dissolve your personhood into liquid ink, and write yourself down in those limited 500 words. Also make sure that you express that you are more than an academic powerhouse--show the University that you're a person with thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Show them that the breadth of your being goes beyond the mere bounds of academia and is grounded in humanity and humility above all else.

Although, ironically, the University has moved to the Common Application, probably just to inflate application numbers, the application was traditionally called the Uncommon Application. Now it's just the Uncommon Essay supplement to the Common Application, but this should lead you to a certain inference: that essay is probably the most important part of the application, so make sure you know how to 1) think and 2) write before you start it. Other than that, I seriously encourage visiting, because that's the only way you'll know if this is the right place for you. You probably hear that all the time, but it is especially important for a quirky place like the University of Chicago.

i suggest you decide how you balance social and academic life now and examine how that might change coming here. Are you okay with that a change?

Have a blast, read fast, make it last - don't be your house's outcast.

The essays in the application process are crucial- make sure to take a lot of time writing them and to be sure your voice shines through. The essay questions are usually strange- topics in the past have included, Find X, Write about a jar of mustard, and Where, exactly is Waldo. Brainstorm, write multiple drafts, and be sure you can hear yourself in your words when you are finished. The essays are probably the most important part of the application. Overall, be sure your application reflects your love of learning and any unique interests you have. Be original. Also, visit the campus and interview if possible- it cannot hurt, only help an application. For younger students, focus your time in high school on what really interests you- do not worry about padding your application with a million activities but find your niche instead. Chicago loves ideas and students with passion for academics- make sure those two aspects shine through in an application.

Be creative and explore your interests. UChicago is famous (notorious?) for their quirky essay prompts, and be sure to have fun with these. You don't necessarily have to be off-the-wall for the prompts either, though -- my essay was just a very sincere account of an experience I had. Just take advantage of the opportunity to elaborate on your personal story. Also, try checking out the UChicago Admissions Tumblr page -- it'll give you a lot of great information and a great taste of what life on campus is like. And of course, the school is selective, so take challenging classes, get good grades, blah blah blah. Just remember -- they like curiousity and personality.

Apply early! Look into every financial aid and scholarship resource you know of, for both need-based and merit-based assistance. Make sure you visit campus (hopefully during Spring quarter) before you make your decision. Be prepared for challenging, yet intriguing, coursework. If you do decided to attend the University of Chicago, you're first priority is to establish a balance between academics, extracurricular, and social activities that fit your lifestyle. This is both possible and crucial to success.

Get involved in your community as well as in your school. Making yourself as diverse as possible will help you in the long run. Make your name familiar with UChicago - talk to recruiters, visit the campus and take tours, speak with admission advisers and counselors to express interest in the school. Lastly, apply early to help your chances of acceptance.

Don't be alarmed by your first B or C. The work here is on a different level than other colleges, so don't be afraid of getting grades that you're uncomfortable with. Don't overdo studying, try to find different RSO's to become a part of and let your extracurricular interests flourish alongside your intellectual growth.