Visit Report by somedumbnoob (Member since November 03 2006 with 386 posts) Visit Date - April 2008
Visit to University of Chicago in April 2008 by somedumbnoob (Student, HS Class of 2008)
Visit Activities:
Information Session:
Yes - It was clear that the speakers really took to heart what they said about the school's educational philosophy and culture. They inspired the entire room. Campus Tour:
Yes - My tour guide was too shy. Nothing beyond the basics and no interesting personal stories. Classroom Visit:
Yes - One class (rather boring) was taught by a graduate student while another was taught by a professor. In both cases, the classes were pretty small (15-20 students) and the kids were very engaged.
University of Chicago Campus:
Friendliness/Courtesy of Students: 5 - Excellent -
Most people welcomed prospectives like myself and my host was very outgoing and helpful.
Friendliness/Courtesy of Staff: 5 - Excellent -
We set up an interview with financial aid without a problem and everyone seemed eager to answer questions.
Appearance of Campus: 4 - Very Good -
The main quad is a perfect example of awe-inspiring collegiate Neogothic. Some modern buildings such as the GSB look fantastic but others such as the Brutalist styled Regenstein library are hideous.
Building/Facilities Maintenance/Cleanliness: 4 - Very Good -
There was no trash to be found on lawns or inside buildings. You can find extensive construction everywhere. The Shoreland, which is closing next year, is falling apart.
Dormitories: 4 - Very Good -
I stayed in Max Palevsky which opened just a few years ago. The rooms aren't as spacious as I would have liked but the lounges and kitchens were superb.
Security/Safety: 4 - Very Good -
Hyde Park has an unsafe reputation and there are rough neighborhoods just a few blocks from campus. The university police presence is heavy, however.
Overall Campus Impression: 5 - Excellent -
Overall, this campus and the people here really impressed me.
Off-Campus:
Area Immediately Around Campus: 5 - Excellent -
The area immediately around campus is very safe and offers interesting cultural opportunities.
City/Town/Community: 3 - Good -
There are many quiet, residential areas and good restaurants nearby. But the regions south and west of the campus leave something to be desired.
Campus Visit Notes for University of Chicago:
Visit Description:
I stayed for an April overnight program in 2008.
I came in fearing the purported academic rigor and social desert that is the University of Chicago and I was relieved to some extent. While people do seem to have a ton of work, most balance it well and seem to enjoy learning and discussion. In terms of workload, some people were able to do study and do sports without much stress but quite a few also pull all-nighters and freak out. I guess the experience is what you make of it.
I sat in on an economics and math class. The econ lecture was led by a graduate student, wasn't exciting, and didn't come close to confirming Chicago's reputation as having the world's foremost economics department. But the math class really brought out the "life of the mind" that Chicago likes to brag about. Everyone eagerly offered their own theories and proofs only to be destroyed seconds later by the professor or peers and the awesome thing is, no one got their feelings hurt and everybody remained excited to learn. There are clearly large numbers of highly-motivated students and engaging professors here.
Socially, there are definately many loners and stereotypical University of Chicago kids here but the majority of the student body seem friendly and even somewhat socially adept. People throw parties, play sports, and get involved with the city. The neighborhood is very racially diverse but the college's students tend to self-segregate.
There was a nude figure drawing, an improv comedy show, and on campus movies playing when I stayed. On that night at least, the university offered plenty to do on campus. Outside of that, I ate in a great restaurant and the city of Chicago offers a lot to explore.
Interestingly, many students here have the paradoxical love-hate relationship with the university. They purport to hate the academic rigor but seem happy to be here. This is epitomized by the loads of self-deprecating shirts that people wear. These usually start with "University of Chicago" and have some punchline like "where fun goes to die," "Hell does freeze over," "where the only thing that goes down on you is your GPA."
While I can see how people could be happy and fulfilled here, the environment is definately not for everyone.
Hotel/Lodging Recommendations or Comments:
Max Palevsky's kitchens and lounges are very nice. The one I saw had modern cooking appliances and a high definition TV.
Dining/Restaurant Recommendations or Comments:
On-campus dining is great but expensive. Bartlett dining hall charges an unreasonable amount for its food unless you're on a plan. Cheeseburgers cost 3:50 and a dish of pasta can set you back 5
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Most people welcomed prospectives like myself and my host was very outgoing and helpful.
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The main quad is a perfect example of awe-inspiring collegiate Neogothic. Some modern buildings such as the GSB look fantastic but others such as the Brutalist styled Regenstein library are hideous.
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There are many quiet, residential areas and good restaurants nearby. But the regions south and west of the campus leave something to be desired.