Jeff’s has a more nuanced position in his new book than five years ago:
Living in the Chicagoland area and knowing many people from NU and UChicago, both alumni and current students, I 100% agree that these schools don’t attract the same kind of student.
OP, do your due diligence in making sure you land in the right environment for you but also, it’s still very early in your college journey. Homesickness is very common the first year of college. Be open to making friends and getting involved at your current school. You may find next semester feels very different.