katia11

What is the last date to schedule an overnight? I REALLY wanted to go to one of the April programs, but the flights are REALLY expensive. However, I found some for a Mon/Tues stay, Aril 28/29 and I'd like to book it tonight. My parents won't let me go by myself until I'm actually a student there, so my dad's getting a hotel room. Is that too late?

CountingDown

Plane fares are cheaper if you book more than 14 days out -- so I'd get the tickets pronto. My S is visiting this month, not on one of the accepted student weekends.

If you aren't staying in a dorm, it should be no problem to visit that late in the game, assuming that gives you enough time to make a final decision by May 1st. International House is cheaper than a hotel and is on campus -- may be a good alternative to not staying in a dorm if your dad is concerned. If you are planning to stay in a dorm, I'd go ahead and make the plane reservations now and call Chicago tomorrow to arrange a dorm visit. Most colleges seem pretty flexible about last-minute visits this time of year. Remember, they want you. The tables are turned!

If you want to sit in on classes, check the online schedule in advance and perhaps contact a prof. One of the things DS liked about Chicago was that profs noticed when he visited their classes -- they knew who their students were.

katia11

As much as my dad is a man of modest means, I found a really good deal for a nice hotel in the Loop area.

Yeah, I know about the fares, which is why I asked my mother to look while I was away in Spain but that didn't happen. Pretty annoyed that i couldn't go to the April Program. Hopefully everyone isn't already best friends lol.

Thanks for the other advice! I suppose they'd be more willing to comply if I already booked the flight

katia11

Oh man. . . I called today to book something and they were like "the only overnights are for the program".

GAH!

Can I set up an informal kind of thing through PSAC? I booked the flight last night out of my checking account. . . .and I really want to stay overnight.

CountingDown

Katia,
Do you know anyone already on campus? My S has been there three times and has never had an Official Overnight Visit. He contacts someone he knows and they have a friends or a friend of a friend...he brings a sleeping bag and treats, and he gets adopted.

PSAC might be able to help! International House is about $60 a night if you are well and truly stuck.

kodama

Most prospie hosts are flexible, and would be happy to host during a non-officially-prospie night. If need be, I know several hosts of either gender in Hitchcock, and could put you in touch. People will pay for meals for you regardless, and you can get in to every building but medical research buildings, the Reg and Crerar alongside a current student.

Class visits happening unofficially should take a prof email, or a request from a host taking the class.

lchal1

International House unfortunately has no more open rooms for a while.

jack4640

got you a host, check PM

CountingDown

Katia, This is why Chicago is so cool.

katia11

Thank you so much Jack and those on this thread! Very grateful. I bet I'll have loads of fun!