Rating Summary
“Beyond Expectations”
- paying for child's education
- Pros
- Witty and Creative Recruitment, Supportive and Caring Staff, Beautiful Campus, Easy Access to Chicago & Surrounding, Outstanding Education
- Cons
- Very Expensive, Needs Better Student Healthcare
University of Chicago —
When my son started to get college flyers and brochures in the mail, one school stood out above the rest. The University of Chicago's recruitment department couldn't have profiled my son any better; every piece of mail he received from them had something that related to his likes, attitude and goals. The mailings were clever, witty and informative. It also didn't hurt that the campus buildings are beautiful stone monsters covered with ivy, and that it looks like the Harry Potter movies modeled their dining halls after U of C's!
The University of Chicago was the only school my son wanted to attend after high school. The application requirements were tough, but extremely creative. I am a bit disappointed to hear that they are resorting to the Common application from now on.
The information on the University's web site is easy to navigate and covers all the topics about which any student might need information. Arranging an appointment to tour the campus was easy. When we arrived, all the people involved with orientation and the tour were fantastic, especially the young lady that was our tour leader. I would suggest that a family visit during a non-break period in order to see the campus in action. We went during Spring break, and classes were not in session.
Thankfully, my son was accepted into the 2012 class. I will warn parents that it is a very stressful time waiting for that letter!
Taking my son to the University for Fall quarter was an amazing experience. Students living on campus have rooms in "houses," some of those beautiful buildings I mentioned earlier. Present students, that have volunteered to come to school early, help the "first years" at the houses with their luggage, information and the new students have someone with which to socialize right off the bat. These volunteer students are also the ones that cheer the first years on when they go through the tradition of walking through the University gates, wave goodbye to their parents and begin living as University of Chicago students. It is a wonderful program and made such a great impression that my son wants to volunteer to welcome next year's new students.
Since that day, the University has exceeded all expectations for my son except for one. It appears that the great food presented during tour times and orientation is only provided at those times. My son said the quality on normal days in no way matches what we ate while visiting the campus. He stated that he and his friends can tell when prospective students are on campus, because the food quality improves dramatically. Just a small observation there.
I encourage anyone who's child is seriously interested in attending the University of Chicago to visit the campus and meet the wonderful staff, support your child's interest and in any way you can (and if they'll let you) help your child submit the best application possible. It is a school worth every effort.
University of Chicago
