Same here! When I read about other top schools not bringing everyone back and/or going 100% online, I’m glad my kids are at UChicago. They just seem to have turned this new environment into an opportunity to be innovative and creative with the academic experience.
They didn’t mention the impact of these new first-year LLC’s on house culture; however, I suspect that other than all of the first years taking the same (or nearly the same) hum and sosc, there won’t be much of a distinct impact on any particular house. The biggest challenge for house culture will be getting enough returning students in each house to help carry on the traditions.
Landon is fastidious. If she thinks its ok to bring everyone back, you can rest assured it’s ok to bring everyone back. Again, glad my kids are at Chicago; I’m sure other top schools are also relying on their infectious diseases specialists but UChicago has made that very clear that their in-house experts have been part of the planning from the beginning.
I do feel kinda sorry for those first years getting the summer reading list though. UChicago was distinct in NOT assigning summer reading to the incoming class in the past. Their position was that there was enough work to do once you arrive on campus so have a great summer and enjoy yourself. I wonder if this has been a secret - or not so secret - wish on the part of Prof. Wild all along.