University of Chicago

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL, USA
Private
4 Year

Cosette's Review

Review of University of Chicago

from Chicago, IL

Describe your college 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.

Do you have any 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.

Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?

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.

Describe the dorm life at your college.

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!

Describe the food and dining at your college.

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’s there to do for fun at your college?

Work out at Ratner Gym, participate in intramural sports like dodgeball, basketball, wallyball, and inner-tube water polo, join RSO's.

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

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!

Which types of students will excel at your college?

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.

Are you involved in any clubs or 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.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

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.

How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?

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.