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.
Do you have any 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.
Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?
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.
Describe the dorm life at your college.
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.
Describe the food and dining at your college.
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’s there to do for fun at your college?
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!
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
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.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
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.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
So many options! There is no doubt you will find something you'll love.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
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.
How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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 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.
So many options! There is no doubt you will find something you'll love.
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.
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.