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<p>UIUC is a good school, the quality of education you will receive there will not differ materially from UChicago, and your parent’s checkbook will thank you. Chicago will offer you a better name, somewhat higher average level of peers, and heckuva better place to live for 4 years. Everything else is up to you. Sounds like you need to re-consider your safety choices and apply to a place where you will be happy to go to.</p>