<p>In my experience, UChicago’s FA is not anything to get excited for. It works for some people, it doesn’t for others. I wouldn’t hinge any bets on it. It gave my family just enough money so that I could attend (and, really, gave us way less than the FA calculator says we should’ve received). Also, I’ll go ahead and note that calling the Chicago FA office to try to wheedle more money out of them will in all likelihood be unsuccessful. They are very stubborn when it comes to this money business.</p>
<p>From what I understand, Chicago’s classics department is stellar. I unfortunately don’t know too much about the linguistics or political science sides of the deal, but UChicago is decently strong in those areas as well. I also can’t speak for the study abroad program as of now, but it certainly seems decently accessible.</p>
<p>Hipsters . . . there is certainly a healthy hipster presence, but I wouldn’t call it horribly prevalent on campus? I mean, it’s kind of just there. (Sorry, that was probably very unhelpful.)</p>
<p>As for the essay, write what you want to write, what you think will portray you best. There’s no right or wrong answer there. Good luck. :)</p>
<p>EDIT: Have you looked at Reed by any chance? It’s very similar to UChicago, I think, in terms of general student atmosphere and vibe. It is also remarkably hipster, from what I hear.</p>