University of Chicago Reviews

Loren

from Chicago, IL

Current student

What tips can you share with prospective students?

Invest in your academics but don't forget to enjoy your time as a college student! Take advantage of UChicago's abundance of resources by exploring diverse classes and student organizations to find what you really enjoy. Reminder–college isn't all about what shows up on paper.

In what ways do you feel this college challenges students academically?

UChicago has a reputation for being academically rigorous for good reason. While course load can be difficult to balance depending on the classes or professors, I've found most of my classes fulfilling. Over the range of experiences I've had, I've found academic challenges typically positive, benefitting my growth as a student. A key perk of UChicago's curriculum is the varying unique courses that are offered. Make sure you do your research on course offerings and find professor reviews to make the most of UChicago's academics!

How would you describe the food and dining options?

Compared to dining options at other colleges, I think that UChicago's dining halls are quite consistent in quality and have a lot of offerings for various meal restrictions. While you can get bored with dining food, I've rarely had instances where meals were "bad." There are also some on-campus non-dining hall options that you can go to if you're looking for something different. UChicago provides a set amount of "meal swipes" and "maroon dollars" that you can use at these locations. In terms of restaurants nearby campus, options are more limited.

Faisal from Los Angeles, CA

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	The classes are very educational and require a lot of focus. The best part is the university understands this, and so there are a lot of opportunities to get help from free tutors and TA's almost every day throughout the quarter.
Am enjoying being here	The stereotype that this is where fun comes to die is simply not true. True, there may be some difficult times academically, but it definitely does not take over your life. It only teaches you to focus when you need to. I have found a large variety of people, and each person seems to find their particular niche of people, whether they love math and movies on weekends, explore Chicago, or a more social atmosphere attending parties. There is definitely a place for everyone, and with the city of Chicago all around you, there is always something to do.
Bang for the buck	Though the price may be high, the University provides great services and academics that warrant it. The housing is great, along with security, and transportation services. Also, the University has great career and connection services around the city and the country. There are many tutoring and aid services to help you through classes. Finally, the academics itself is world-class, providing very in-depth information and teaching students how to think in each class, rather than memorize facts.
Tips for prospective students	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!
Great for these types of students	Anyone who genuinely enjoys learning. It can be about anything, but for someone who's interested in something specific, you will find a great class about it here. It's also great for those who love Chicago, as the University has many connections and services around the city. Finally, the University has a very worldly feel, with international exhibits, programs, professors and a large group of international students. Anyone who's interested in an international experience would like it here.

Student from Aurora, IL

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	The University of Chicago is an institution focused on rigorous inquiry and the life of the mind; that is, the University encourages thoughtful exploration of game-changing theories, beliefs, etc. Academics are the University's number one strength, and success won't happen here without diligence, persistence, and self-motivation. The University caters to very specific individuals: those who believe knowledge has no lower or upper bounds and are willing to take the plunge into the delicate abstractions that contribute to our understanding of the world.
Tips for prospective students	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.
Academic Rigor	The University is EXTREMELY difficult. Studying as much as possible will not guarantee you an A here. Grade deflation is rampant and professors love to push their students to their fullest academic capacities. Being a strong student in one subject will not guarantee success here.The University is built upon a liberal arts foundation--you're expected to be an eloquent writer, logical scientist, and social theorist all bundled up into one package. Your intellect will be stretched here.
Dorm Life	The housing system is phenomenal for those who are more introverted and struggle with initiating friendships with others. House bonding is a paramount feature of Orientation at UChicago. There will always be peers to study with, talk to, laugh with, and go exploring with. In addition, the dorms themselves are above average, and there are plenty of varieties available depending on students' preferences--some dorms are very near, others very far; some are modern, others maintain the University's neogothic charm. Finally, UChicago has a very lax drugs and partying policy in the dorms. As long as the RAs do not see open bottles in the hallway or smell/see drugs of any kind outside of your room, you are all clear--the dorms are an awesome place to party responsibly.
Food and Dining	There are two large dining halls to choose from: one in North campus and one in South campus. While the food here is above average and there is a large variety to choose from (including Kosher and Halal foods), UChicago dining seems to cycle through their dishes fairly often--almost weekly at times. That being said, you'll be well-fed, well-nourished, and pretty happy with the food here. All incoming freshman are also required to get an unlimited meal plan, meaning that you'll be able to eat often as you'd like.
What to do for fun	There is plenty to do for fun here, whether it's joining one of the hundreds of RSOs on campus, going to the Logan center to catch an art or music performance, or hanging out with friends. UChicago is not where fun goes to die! Rather, it's a place where fun is interspersed amongst hours of rigorous work. Point is, you won't be bored here, and there will plenty of opportunities to take a break and let your endorphins run rampant and have your dopamine levels recharge before hitting the books again!
Bang for the buck	The University's tuition rivals that of more well-known intellectual institutions (i.e. Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Stanford, etc.) While the University will teach you a lot, it probably won't lead to the sort of connections you would establish at a better known private institution.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	The University is known for holding the world's largest scavenger hunt (Scav). The campus goes crazy during Scav season; however, I do not have any more information, as I have not participated yet.
Great for these types of students	Great for students who can take a beating, dust themselves off, and jump right back into the game. The University is difficult. It will break you down at times. It will make you feel stupid, lazy, and unworthy of the opportunity to attend the school. But at the end of the day, the University teaches you a lesson about persistence and coming to terms with and challenging your capabilities. If you thrive in purely academic atmospheres and are resilient, then you belong at this school.
Clubs and Activities	So many options! There is no doubt you will find something you'll love.
Greek Life	I'm not a member of greek life, but from an outsider's perspective, it seems fake and lame. But maybe that's more reflective of the type of person I am.
Campus Safety	Due to its proximity to the Southside, the University has the world's 2nd (?) largest private police force. However, robberies are still rampant, and there are definitely certain parts of campus that should be avoided past 1AM. If you are somewhat logical and have decent street smarts, you should be fine.

Michael from Washington

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	Even though I'm only taking 3 classes this quarter (3 or 4 qualify as full time), it's definitely a sizable load. The 10 week quarter has gone by extremely fast, with tons of material covered every week. The pace is great for an avid learner, and if you are taking courses you are interested in, you will have plenty of opportunity to learn more than what's in the textbook. Even outside of class, everyone has a passion for knowledge that easily rubs off on you, and learning becomes a full-time activity. For example, at a party at the end of 3rd week, I got a rundown of the history of the Irish Civil War over beers while at a party.
Am enjoying being here	But don't let the predilection for intellectual stimulation fool you: there is plenty of fun to be found here, whatever your definition of fun may be. The parties may not compare with some other campuses, but they are better than you might expect. I'm in one of the residence halls with a reputation for hermitic behavior and complete lack of social life, which should be saying something when the same reputation has been given to the campus as a whole. And yet, that stereotype has been completely disproven in my experience, both for this residence hall and the rest of the campus. Moving along: being in Chicago is especially great if you are from a smaller town. I'll admit I still miss Seattle and would say I prefer it, but it is undeniable that the diversity and magnitude of opportunities available in the Second City are appreciable. Overall, the people I've met, opportunities I've had, and unique experiences available here have caused me to enjoy my time here immensely.
Bang for the buck	With 3 classes costing the same as 4, given a class with three 50 minute lectures per week, it comes to between $125 and $175 per class. Honestly, I wonder about the bang for the buck sometimes. Overall, I believe it will be worth it in the end. The unique education, the quality of student life, and the experiences afforded by that arguably exorbitant tuition make it, in my opinion, worth it—but it's open to debate.
Tips for prospective students	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.
Great for these types of students	If you don't sincerely enjoy the pursuit of knowledge, you won't like it here. You run into far more students who say they don't particularly care about the increased paycheck foreseen for college graduates than who list that as a top 5 reason for coming here. In fact, of the six or so people with whom I've discussed post-graduation plans, four have said they would be perfectly happy doing menial labour for pay and pursuing their interests in their spare time. In reality, most of them will become fabulously rich one way or another (even if it's the route of Tucker Max). But both of these illustrate the types of people who thrive at the University of Chicago: people with an insatiable drive for knowledge, and people with whatever quality of passion is associated with an entrepreneurial spirit.

Margaret from Oak Park, MI

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	It's called restricted access. It's amazing, we learn everything from a primary angle; our professors wrote the textbooks that students at other colleges study from.
Am enjoying being here	The rigorous coursework is stressful, and its hard feeling warm and comfortable in Chicago's bitter winters. It is not easy to engage in social life because everyone is preoccupied trying to stay above water in class.
Bang for the buck	The dorms were horrible, ripped furniture, germy carpet in need of new everything. They are getting much better though, built two new dorms so newcomers will never know the of the infested old ones.
Tips for prospective students	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?
Great for these types of students	open, hardworking, the type that takes long projects and breaks them into pieces. good writers. city dwellers

Anastasia from Naperville, IL

accepted here and planning to attend soon

Categories	Comments
Will learn a lot	Though I had the fortune of being able to decide between the University and several other schools - chief among them Cornell University - I realized that the caliber of Chicago's Economics and Political Science programs far exceeds that of Cornell's. However, my decision delved much deeper than surface-level comparisons of U.S. News & World Report program rankings. Unlike any ivy league school, the University of Chicago is the birthplace of one of America's most influential schools of economic thought. It is the collegiate home of Milton Friedman; it is the hub of Monetarist thought; it is the school where Freakonomics author Steven Levitt teaches, and where any aspiring economist, attorney, or even investment banker should aspire to learn.
Will enjoy being here	Of course! University of Chicago's campus is enough to make Harry Potter jealous - from our unique housing system to our mascot - the phoenix - to our grand piano-outfitted dormitories, scav hunts, and scarves, the University of Chicago is by far the most enjoyable part of the Hyde Park neighborhood. Scratch that - of the Chicagoland area. Scratch that - of the collegiate world.
Bang for the buck	UChicago will bang your buck better than any ivy. After all, it's a school of skilled economists - who but them to seek an efficient allocation of your family's resources?
Tips for prospective students	Have a blast, read fast, make it last - don't be your house's outcast.
Great for these types of students	Social, intellectual, diligent, curious, passionate, and dedicated.

Alana from Benton Harbor, MI

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	The University of Chicago is an urban neighborhood filled with Gothic architecture and students passionate about learning. While the workload at times feels unbearable, getting to learn from some of the best professors in the field makes up for it. The community at the university is like no others, filled with a diverse group of people dedicated to not only academics but bettering the city and, in some cases, the world.
Tips for prospective students	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.
Academic Rigor	The academics here are tough and it's what the University is known for. It is not uncommon for students to spend all night at the library and the coffee shops certainly make their money off sleep-deprived students; however, no one at the school would have it any other way. The University is on the quarter system which means the classes are 10 weeks with the 11th week being comprised of exams. With this structure, students can take three batches of classes a year rather than two on the typical semester system. The school's educational experience is divided into three parts: 1/3 are the core requirements which all students must take, 1/3 are the classes in a student's major, and the final 1/3 are electives which can result in a double major, minor, or are simply an assortment of classes a student finds interesting. While the classes are tough, the love of learning at the school is apparent through all the options for classes and the work ethic of the students.
Dorm Life	The dorm life is a critical aspect to the Chicago experience. First year students are required to live on campus and many stay for a second year then move off after. Dorms are comprised of houses all of which have their own personality, tend to be a small number of students, and are tight-knit. In the dining halls, all houses have their own table which can eliminate any of the anxiety about where or who to sit with. The University decides where the students live but the students submit their top three choices, usually after consulting the dorm guide and visiting. Some dorms are located far from classes; one of the dorms is, literally, on the main quad. One of the dorms is where most of the athletes live and another is where the more reserved kids reside. The University of Chicago dorm life is unique in that it tries to create a variety of environments and communities through their housing system rather than randomly assigning kids where to live.
Food and Dining	For being situated so close to downtown, the options at the University of Chicago can be lacking. The dining halls are not great- last year they were shut down for health code violations and while they do offer lots of options, at times the facilities are not clean. The student center has many options which are better bets such as Papa Johns, Qdoba, Einstein Brothers Bagels, and Subway.
What to do for fun	The University of Chicago is located only 7 miles from downtown- it is a fifteen minute Metra ride from the loop. There is always something to do in the city- most students go to plays, explore neighborhoods, and eat out downtown on the weekends. On campus, there are student performances in everything from ballet to improv comedy; the fraternities throw parties on the weekends along with students who live off campus. If partying isn't for you, many students enjoy spending a night having a picnic on the beach or hanging out in the dorm lounge watching movies.
Bang for the buck	While the University of Chicago is expensive, the payoff and help from the school is wonderful. The school has worked with my family to provide a financial aid package which is affordable and I know that my education here will provide me with fantastic opportunities. This summer, I received a paid internship with the Illinois Governor's office after only my second year on campus. The resources at the career advancement office at the school helped me land the job- they are a team which offers resume and cover letter review along with guidance in employment-seeking. I feel confident my education at Chicago will result in a fantastic job or an acceptance letter to a top law school; the University of Chicago is definitely worth the investment.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	The University has an array of gothic architecture and sculptures- the entire camps at times feels like an unusual location. There is a statue by the library called the Fermi statue which commemorates the first nuclear reactor, built underneath the football bleachers at the University. There is a seal in the student union and the rumor is that anyone who steps on it will not graduate in four years; students, literally will tiptoe around this so as not to brush against it. Finally, a few blocks away from the main quad is a park with a plaque dedicating the first time Barack Obama and Michelle kissed (the presidents home is only a few blocks away from there as well).
Great for these types of students	The University of Chicago is great for students who love to learn, debate, and try new things. It is in an urban setting so it's good for those who enjoy that lifestyle and want to meet a lot of culturally diverse people. Finally, it's a good school for those who may have been shy in high school or unsure of where they fit in because at the University of Chicago, anyone can find a place.
Clubs and Activities	Activities here are called rso's or registered student organizations. Along with varsity athletics, the college has a lot of club sports and intramurals. If sports are not your thing, the University has a competitive Model United Nations group, debate team, and quiz bowl. There are also a lot of volunteer clubs such as Health Leads and Neighborhood Schools Program which gets students involved with kids in the local Chicago public schools. Each quarter there is a fair where all the groups come to advertise their club so students can sign up.
Greek Life	There are four sororities on campus and about 8 fraternities- Greek life is not a big part of Chicago life. While the fraternities do have parties most weekends and the sororities host events such as Mr. University, students tend to have a more negative opinion of Greek life and it's not advertised much by the University.
Campus Safety	The University is surrounded by some neighborhoods which aren't so nice; however, campus security is prevalent, there are shuttles at night and the University has an alert system to let students know, immediately, of any threats. Sometimes, I feel uneasy walking home by myself late at night and it's not really a smart idea to be on your phone or listening to music walking alone but students can stay completely safe by paying attention to their surroundings and not taking any unnecessary risks.

accepted here and planning to attend soon

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	The U of C is focused on academic rigor and, as they frequently talk about, the life of the mind. It's an incredibly intellectual school in a fun neighborhood in an amazing city. At UChicago, you will be encouraged to learn a lot, but you will also experience one of the most important cities in America.
Tips for prospective students	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.
Academic Rigor	UChicago has a variety of t-shirts with slogans poking fun at their notorious academic rigor. One says If we wanted A's, we'd go to Harvard. You'll probably hear a lot about grade deflation, but as it turns it out UC just doesn't have grade INFLATION. Everyone is required to complete the core curriculum (this is UC's signature), which consists of several classes in basically all subjects. UChicago requires you to be knowledgable across a broad range of subjects.
Dorm Life	There are brand new dorms on campus in crazy modern styles (one dorm, known as Max P, is remiscent of an orange Lego) while other dorms are in a gorgeous neo-gothic style, so essentially everyone is bound to find a dorm they like. Some dorms have less than 100 people in them, some have several hundred. Some are off-campus, some are right on the quads. Additionally, UC has the house system (like in Harry Potter!) -- each student is assigned to a house. You meet with your housemates for meetings and a variety of activities, and you even have a house table in one of the dining halls. Plus, you can compete as a house in intramural sports teams.
Food and Dining	There are four or so dining halls on campus, all with a variety of options, including vegan, vegetarian, Kosher, Hallal, etc. The food is really quite good, and there's a wide variety. I believe one dining hall even has its own Mongolian Grill? Your meal plan also includes maroon dollars which can be used of buy things from some convenience shops on campus. There are also many cafes around campus, with names like Hallowed Grounds, and one shop sells milkshakes for $1 on Wednesdays! Dining halls close on Saturday evenings so that you're encouraged to go check out places in Chicago. I don't even need to elaborate on how amazing food is in the city -- it's Chicago! If you don't want to go far, there are some incredibly cool restaurants in Hyde Park, just a few minute walk from campus.
What to do for fun	Join one of the hundreds of RSOs (what UC calls their clubs), explore Chicago (your UChicago ID doubles as an arts pass that will get you discounts and even get you in to places like the Art Institute for free!), chill in Hyde Park, ride your bike or take a run along Lake Michigan, play on an intramural or club sports team...if there's something you want to do, it's pretty much guaranteed that you'll find it, unless you're into white-water rafting or something -- there isn't really a lot of super wild area anywhere near the school.
Bang for the buck	Their financial aid is pretty much unsurpassable -- they're rivaled by the famously generous Ivies, but otherwise they're quite good. The Odyssey Scholarship ensures that most students whose family incomes are below $90,000 will not have to pay any loans. They also are one of few prestigious schools that offer merit scholarships, and they give National Merit Finalists $2,000 a year, or $1,000 a year for students not on financial aid.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	I believe the first self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction or something of a similar sort was created on campus. Fermi stayed in a dorm in Snell-Hitchcock residence hall. $1 milkshakes on Wednesdays are a pretty darn good tradition if you ask me. Burton-Judson residence hall is essentially Hogwarts. Many of the residence halls are historic. Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House is on campus (if you're not an art history buff, that's arguably the most famous house by arguably the most famous American architect). The Rockefeller chapel is absolutely gorgeous. There are multiple museums on campus, like the Oriental Institute (about Near Eastern culture) and the Smart Museum of Art. The Logan Center for the Arts is an absolutely amazing building opening this fall that has incredible facilities. Oh, SCAVENGER HUNT -- every year, almost everyone campus participates in a massive, insanely ridiculous scavenger hunt. Items on the list have included things like assembling a nuclear reactor (and people actually did it). It's pretty intense. Also, if you're admitted, you get a nice maroon scarf in the mail!
Great for these types of students	Curious, intellectual, desiring a broad education, desiring an education that is more focused on knowledge for knowledge sake than preparing for a very specific career path (although Chicago Careers In... program provides tons of help setting students up in strong careers). If you're curious and quirky, this is the perfect school. If you consider yourself pretty indie (or, hipster, to not mince words) you'll also probably love it, in all honesty.
Clubs and Activities	There's practically everything on campus. There is a gigantic array of clubs and activities (several hundred, ranging from the conventional to the absolutely absurd), and people are always starting new clubs (anyone is free to). A note to music students: while there is no music performance degree offered by the college, there are still plenty of opportunities. There is a music degree, which is basically an academic degree (theory, history, etc.). There is also a number of very strong music groups, like the University Symphony Orchestra. There's an audition at the beginning of the year that matches you to the ensembles you would be good for, as well as to a private teacher -- the University will pay 10-60% of the cost of your private lessons, and some students even get to take lessons from Chicago Symphony Orchestra members! I found pursuing music at UChicago to be preferable (at least for me) to following a traditional music performance program at other schools.
Greek Life	About 10% of students are part of Greek Life, so people who aren't a part DEFINITLEY don't feel left out. Pretty much everyone is invited to most of the parties, as well. Some of the fraternities are co-ed community service fraternities, which I thought was pretty cool. Greek Life at UC is not at all like it would be at your typical state school.
Campus Safety	Although Hyde Park isn't known to be absolutely the safest, the campus has many security measures set in place. You can call up a van that will drive you from wherever you are to wherever you need to be at any time (SafeRide, I think it's called), the campus shuttle runs at night, and you can even call a campus police car to follow behind you as you're walking home, if you're feeling a bit nervous.

Xavier from Fort Wayne, IN

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	Every course I am enrolled in opens my mind to new vistas of knowledge. The instructors can be, at times, too involved in the coursework, but they make up for it in passion and quality. The defining characteristic of academics at UChicago is that everyone is really passionate about what they are studying. People come here to get a world-class education, and it shows.
Am enjoying being here	The social life and extracurricular activities can be whatever you make of them. Coursework can be slightly overwhelming during mid-terms and close to finals, but if you stay on top of your work and stay organized, there shouldn't be any problem. With this attitude, students have plenty of opportunities to get into the city, experience campus culture, and have fun! I myself love the extracurriculars offered on campus and take every advantage to go downtown. Attending comedy shows, Model UN, and my religious group are a few of the opportunities I take advantage of myself.
Bang for the buck	The University's Office of Financial Aid gives generous need-based aid, using both its own and federal resources. The Odyssey Scholarship, a program launched a few years ago, will replace all or half of a student's loan expectation given he or she is at or below a certain income level. The sticker price can scare some students away, but once you dig a little deeper (using Cappex and other scholarship finders), there is plenty of aid available. UChicago uses every dollar for the good of its students, providing security and police personnel, health and wellness resources, and subsidized activities both on and off campus.
Tips for prospective students	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.
Great for these types of students	UChicago is great for motivated students passionate about their field of study. This school will open many doors to careers, jobs, and internships through its alumni network, so those who understand the value of connections will do well. Students open to and looking for new experiences, especially like living in a big city and meeting unique people, will strive here. This school isn't the best for students looking to party a lot, but, that being said, the party scene is not shabby at all. Students who enjoy spending time with friends in the lounge or room/apartment parties will be satisfied. Good luck!

Gabrielle from Chicago, IL

a current student here

Categories	Comments
Am learning a lot	The Core Curriculum grants students the opportunity to experience the different fields of study and the various departments available. Once you decide which course you want to take for an intended major, there is generally a numerous amount of electives for your major that enable you to delve further into your intended area of study. Not only this, but you are able to specify your intended major by choosing speciality electives within your major that may be of particular interest. The courses are definitely challenging and force you to think analytically and critically about the material, but this provides students with the necessary tools to succeed in life outside of class such as internships and jobs. Despite the challenges and the difficulties of the coursework, the classes and the school provide the resources to succeed. The relationship between students and professors is not only confined to the classroom, but professors are often available for office hours and individual appointments as well. There are tutors available as well.
Am enjoying being here	Overall, I enjoy being at the school. During my first year, I confined my social life only to the classroom and my dorm room, which did not provide for much fun and entertainment. There are different student organizations and activities on campus that provide students the opportunity to get involved, network, and socialize with students on campus as well as alumni. With the school, you definitely make what you want of it; if you want to keep to yourself, then that is easily possible, but if you want to socialize and be involved, there are more than enough organizations available to guarantee student involvement.
Bang for the buck	UChicago is definitely a financial commitment that may be the deciding factor in choosing whether or not to attend the college but the monetary commitment functions as an investment into each student's future success. With all graduating seniors that I have known, they have secured jobs in competitive career fields. Also, the professors staffed at the University are among the best in the nation. The University of Chicago has an extensive number of Nobel Prize winners who teach at the school. While you pay a pretty penny for the University, you are also learning for the best and the brightest.
Tips for prospective students	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.
Great for these types of students	This school is great for students who like to think outside of the box and take a different approach towards solving problems and confronting challenges. Students needs to have a good work ethic and know how to prioritize their time and activities. The school is difficult, but with the proper time management and work ethic it is possible to make your class work less stressful and more enjoyable.

Cosette from Chicago, IL

a current student here

Categories	Comments
In three sentences	UChicago is definitely a place blooming with innovation and a truly visible love for academia. Students here spend all night and day in the library, opt not to sleep, and still read for fun regardless of the academic rigor. The activism on campus also brings a robust interaction between students and the surrounding community, fighting for justice and equality to enhance all areas of life for the citizens of this nation.
Tips for prospective students	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.
Academic Rigor	I have never had work this hard before, but I also have never learned this much before. In addition, I'm not only learning about things in my specified Public Policy field, but going through the Core at UChicago exposes you to a variety of possible newly inspired interests and topics you never crossed before. The work here is no where near easy, but it is rewarding.
Dorm Life	Living in Max Palevsky has been such a fun, learning experience where I've meet tons of great, smart, and interesting people. Not only are the people great, but its close proximity to main campus allows me to get around quickly without having to wake up super early, and also right by the gym that is open until midnight. It is very clean, neat, modern living, that has just the right amount of support and privacy. I love my roommates, and my favorite part has to be the study rooms on each floor for late night studying when you don't want to go to the library!
Food and Dining	It just seems like the food should be better since UChicago isn't a huge public school. It's definitely edible though, and maybe about a week out of each quarter you have some really good specialty or cultural food that sparks things up.
What to do for fun	Work out at Ratner Gym, participate in intramural sports like dodgeball, basketball, wallyball, and inner-tube water polo, join RSO's.
Bang for the buck	For whatever interest you have, UChicago has something to offer that complements it. No desire to learn has gone unattended here, everything is thought about, and if you are so innovative to not have your idea available, you can request to make your own class or RSO that addresses the issue. So, your future is easily cultivated on our campus if you get involved, and the classes are second to none. You know you're getting an Ivy League quality education here.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	SCAV!!!!!! The world's largest scavenger hunt in the world is held right here on the University of Chicago campus. Staying up until the wee hours of the morning literally running around campus and climbing up trees looking for clues was probably one of the most exciting experiences of life here. House movie trips are another one of my favorite traditions; being able to see the new movies with your housemates at the theater is just so fun!
Great for these types of students	Many people say that the students here are awkward and weird, but it's our quirkiness that sets us above the rest. I never really thought I was a nerd or awkward, but being here just shows me exactly who I am, and brings out my inner nerd. Here, being a nerd is a compliment, it indicates strong interest in your future and determination in your endeavors. However, I have not found myself so welcome in all areas of the college because of my Black heritage. If you value a robust social life, big parties and black culture, this is not the place to come unless you are an advocate for social change and willing to fight for it.
Clubs and Activities	Hundreds of RSO's visit the website! I'm a leader in the Organization of Black Students and we are making some really progressive moves in bettering the campus climate for the students of color.
Greek Life	I dislike the greek life on campus. The Black fraternity and sororities are mostly city chapters, so there are few actual UChicago participants, and it's not as lively as state and public colleges, but if you really care about it enough, you'll still want to join and contribute something.
Campus Safety	UCPD - the UChicago police department is on top of their game. But, it is still unsafe to walk around Chicago streets at night without the possibility of getting robbed or molested. Please just be smart.