Shimer College changed me from an arrogant high school with a narrow world perception into a better scholar, citizen, and person. I once thought I had all the answers. Shimer showed me I knew none, and it only gave me all the questions.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Talk to the admissions. They're very helpful, always willing to take time to show you around campus, talk about books, or talk about anything in general. The people hired to work at Shimer come there only to serve you, and they do royally. Just don't be shaken when they ask you question -- as if they really care about what you're talking about. If you are not used to people listening to your intellectual rambles, that will change.
Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?
At my previous high school, it was known for its high test scores and well-behaved alumni. I came from a really good school, and so I didn't know what to expect from Shimer. Shimer is book oriented. You read a classical book, and then people discuss it. I've done this before in high school and always was able to just say whatever. Later before my first class at Shimer I realized, there was a particular discourse that is established. You're often asked to cite your source, speak with confidence, and have thick skin to all criticism that goes your way. A lot of what is class feels like you're going backwards, but because you're struggling everyday, you begin to become more confident, more eloquent, and competent enough to listen.
Describe the dorm life at your college.
Dorm life is fluid. Each class is dynamically different because people who go to Shimer are often individuals.
Describe the food and dining at your college.
The cafeteria has decent food, but there are many grocery stores nearby if you decide to make your own food or live off campus, which tends to be the popular choice. I actually miss the food a lot now that I'm no longer attending Shimer.
What’s there to do for fun at your college?
video games, chess, talking, walking, visiting museums, exploring the neighborhoods of Chicago
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
I had to leave the college I loved because of financial reasons. Shimer College does provide a reasonable tuition for those who are in need, but if your parents are unwilling to co-sign your loan (and if they make good money), you are out of luck unless you take drastic measures to earn federal grants.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Our mascot is the Flaming Smelt. I used to attend church in the God Box, and we meet quite frequently for artistic showcases (which are talent shows at Shimer).
Which types of students will excel at your college?
individualistic, free spirit, passionate
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
There are hundreds of opportunities for clubs and activities. I never really considered myself very active in clubs, though I probably helped out at quite a few. People are more than not likely to invite you to something. And the Shimer spirit is to be inclusive, always.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
None, and very discouraged
How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?
I always felt safe whenever on campus. There are plenty of patrols nearby, and they are willing to escort you if you ask. People are also often about, so it's as if you're never alone.
Shimer College changed me from an arrogant high school with a narrow world perception into a better scholar, citizen, and person. I once thought I had all the answers. Shimer showed me I knew none, and it only gave me all the questions.
Talk to the admissions. They're very helpful, always willing to take time to show you around campus, talk about books, or talk about anything in general. The people hired to work at Shimer come there only to serve you, and they do royally. Just don't be shaken when they ask you question -- as if they really care about what you're talking about. If you are not used to people listening to your intellectual rambles, that will change.
At my previous high school, it was known for its high test scores and well-behaved alumni. I came from a really good school, and so I didn't know what to expect from Shimer. Shimer is book oriented. You read a classical book, and then people discuss it. I've done this before in high school and always was able to just say whatever. Later before my first class at Shimer I realized, there was a particular discourse that is established. You're often asked to cite your source, speak with confidence, and have thick skin to all criticism that goes your way. A lot of what is class feels like you're going backwards, but because you're struggling everyday, you begin to become more confident, more eloquent, and competent enough to listen.
Dorm life is fluid. Each class is dynamically different because people who go to Shimer are often individuals.
The cafeteria has decent food, but there are many grocery stores nearby if you decide to make your own food or live off campus, which tends to be the popular choice. I actually miss the food a lot now that I'm no longer attending Shimer.
video games, chess, talking, walking, visiting museums, exploring the neighborhoods of Chicago
I had to leave the college I loved because of financial reasons. Shimer College does provide a reasonable tuition for those who are in need, but if your parents are unwilling to co-sign your loan (and if they make good money), you are out of luck unless you take drastic measures to earn federal grants.
Our mascot is the Flaming Smelt. I used to attend church in the God Box, and we meet quite frequently for artistic showcases (which are talent shows at Shimer).
individualistic, free spirit, passionate
There are hundreds of opportunities for clubs and activities. I never really considered myself very active in clubs, though I probably helped out at quite a few. People are more than not likely to invite you to something. And the Shimer spirit is to be inclusive, always.
None, and very discouraged
I always felt safe whenever on campus. There are plenty of patrols nearby, and they are willing to escort you if you ask. People are also often about, so it's as if you're never alone.