<p>Here is the introduction to that report. <a href=“Page Not Found | University of Chicago”>http://www.uchicago.edu/docs/education/quality1.html</a> It provides some important background. The University began an effort in 1994 to survey the quality of student life at Chicago. As a result of the report, the University began a series of initiatives aimed at improving the undergraduate experience at Chicago, while at the same time maintaining its academic experience. The changes were not all that easy to make. The Core went from 21 to 15 required courses, and many alumni and then current students were not pleased. Even the building of the Ratner Center was not without controversy, with some alumni opposed. </p>
<p>The Dean of the College, John Boyer (<a href=“http://chronicle.uchicago.edu/061102/boyer.shtml[/url]”>http://chronicle.uchicago.edu/061102/boyer.shtml</a>), deserves a great deal of the credit for the improved social climate at the school. He is a tireless fighter for a quality undergraduate experience.</p>
<p>As a result of Chicago’s experience, a regular survey of student life is now conducted on many campuses. A consortia of about 33 schools now compares results after each survey, which is conducted every few years. The results are kept confidential so as not to be used in marketing, though the Boston Globe leaked that Harvard finished 31 out of 33 in student satisfaction with academic and social life. This lead to many of the changes we have seen there. </p>
<p>Chicago, as well as other schools, are keenly aware of quality of life issues and do everything they can to improve it. The new dorm, bringing all students closer to campus, and 53rd street renovation, are recent examples. Students should expect continued efforts.</p>
<p>According to the PR, First Year’s returning for their second year is 98%. Also, in a report I read, about 20% of students who transfer out, transfer back in.</p>