<p>I’m a member of the class of 2012, so I can’t cite direct experience. Most of this is hearsay.</p>
<p>As for #1, [Newsweek.com:</a> Society: Inside The Admissions Game](<a href=“University of Chicago News”>University of Chicago News) gives an insider’s perspective on U(C) admissions. Libby Pearson got in with only one teacher rec; the adcom will ‘weight’ what they feel is the most important and strong part of your application.</p>
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<li><p>From what I’ve heard, most RAs are liberal and understanding. The residence halls are all pretty clean, though some are older than others. [Housing</a> - University of Chicago Housing & Dining Services](<a href=“http://www.rh.uchicago.edu/hds/housing/]Housing”>http://www.rh.uchicago.edu/hds/housing/) will tell you all about housing, and some houses have websites, so you can look at room layouts and maybe even some photos. If the sites are up, which they never are…</p></li>
<li><p>Most current students on this board enjoy and value the Core, though some HUM/SOSC classes are more rigorous than others. You could search for course syllabi on the Chicago website to judge possible annoyance factor for yourself. Personally, I think reading- and writing-intensive courses examining foundational texts are enriching and necessary. If you have any doubts about your fit with the curriculum, then you should consider applying to Chicago carefully because the Core is 1/3 of your courseload.</p></li>
<li><p>Most people take 4 courses each quarter, I think. The minimum is 3.</p></li>
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