messages
listlengths
2
43
[ { "content": "Sem Coop is moving--thanks to the Milton Friedman center . ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Is it a shame that the Sem is moving? Yes. Is it also great that UofC can hopefully build on a strength with the Friedman center? Yes.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Sem Coop is moving--thanks to the Milton Friedman center . ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Urghghghhh dislike so much... The co-op is a UChicago landmark; making it more \"convenient\" is only tainting its uniqueness. ", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Sem Coop is moving--thanks to the Milton Friedman center . ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Get this: The cooperative garden next to the coop has to be demolished to be a STAGING site for the construction of the MFI. not to actually become the MFI, but to stage construction.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Problem: how do you know when your pizza is at the Reg, when reception sucks on the A-Level? Answer: this.. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I can't be the only one who orders food to the Reg...", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "There's a fire in a building on University across from the Reynolds Club.. I think it's Math/Stat. Does anyone know any details?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's math/stat. I'm in the Reynold's club, but I haven't heard any news yet", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I think they've been doing construction on it this quarter. Maybe there was an accident. Hopefully no one was inside.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "From what I heard, it was indeed under construction, and there's no reason to think that anyone was inside. Hopefully we'll find out more tomorrow.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "There's a fire in a building on University across from the Reynolds Club.. I think it's Math/Stat. Does anyone know any details?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's math/stat. I'm in the Reynold's club, but I haven't heard any news yet", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "And they were almost done remodeling it.....hehe.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Apparently it was being remodelled with Ponzi scheme money...\n\n...and the plot thickens.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "There's a fire in a building on University across from the Reynolds Club.. I think it's Math/Stat. Does anyone know any details?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "not the quadrangle club!!", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "UChicago is featured pretty heavily in here. It makes me pretty sad.. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The girl on the last page is in my Hum class O.o\n\nI don't think the school is in danger of losing its identity at all; even if the applicant pool is becoming more standardized, the accepted students still embody the unconventional spirit of the university (from what I can tell, though my class seems more outgoing). Plus, until it gets rid of the essay prompts that make the quirky students apply, UChicago will still be the most uncommon of the top universities. Nondorf did his job well.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "> She says the university is becoming “normal,” more career oriented. She liked the maroon scarf it sent her.\n\nಠ_ಠ\n\n>She also liked its declining admissions rate. In 2004, Chicago accepted 40 percent of its applicants, compared with 18 percent this year. “I wouldn’t have applied a few years ago — I would have felt overqualified,” says Ms. Lozinski, who had an A average in high school and scored a 2370 (out of 2400) on the SAT. “A college’s admissions rate says something about the quality of students who go there and the prestige of it.” \n\n**ಠ_ಠ**", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "UChicago is featured pretty heavily in here. It makes me pretty sad.. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Speaking as a fourth-year who mainly knows other fourth and third-years, most of us do do feel that the first and seconds are, well, a little too normal and thus not interesting. Being more mainstream does have benefits which I appreciate, like better career prep from CAPS and better name recognition, but I came to UChi because I liked our identity. Gotta keep the place at least a little weird...", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Then again, I'm a fourth year also, and I remember that in my first year, the fourth years in my House were REALLY weird. Even the third years seemed often... kinda off. There has to be a happy medium somewhere.\n\nI will say that I am all for the improved hygiene I've seen in the new classes.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Dude, you're telling me. I lived in B-J in 2003, and that place was geek central. My girlfriend lived in Snell, and *that* place was like the Asperger's Hall of Fame. There were people fencing in the hallways wearing capes and shit.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "UChicago is featured pretty heavily in here. It makes me pretty sad.. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Speaking as a fourth-year who mainly knows other fourth and third-years, most of us do do feel that the first and seconds are, well, a little too normal and thus not interesting. Being more mainstream does have benefits which I appreciate, like better career prep from CAPS and better name recognition, but I came to UChi because I liked our identity. Gotta keep the place at least a little weird...", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "We felt the same way about your class when I was a fourth year in 2007. :P\n\nI do think this trend has accelerated in recent years, maybe largely due to the Common application. When I was a third year or something, a bunch of people were protesting the administration building to \"save the Uncommon application.\" I thought it was kind of ridiculous at the time, but in retrospect, they may have had a point.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "UChicago is featured pretty heavily in here. It makes me pretty sad.. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Boyer's comments really frustrated me. I feel like he's a total sellout. We deserve as many applications as Columbia? Seriously? More applications does not make you a better school. It's the _quality_ of the applicants that makes up the student body.\n\nThe first year on the last page really annoyed me. I felt \"over qualified\" because the admission rate was too low? If you're judging a school entirely on its admissions rate Chicago is probably not the best place for you.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "UChicago is featured pretty heavily in here. It makes me pretty sad.. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm a prospective student for UChic. Fingers crossed for Dec. 15...\n\nOne of my parents' friends said that, although the applicant pool has grown substantially, this is largely due to the University sending out more personalized letters/emails to people who would have less chance of even getting in to the school if they did apply. I'm not sure about the truth of this whatsoever, but it makes sense. If you can raise the number of people who feel like they can get in, even if they probably can't, by giving them a lot of attention, it boosts your rankings. \n\nIf the school is becoming more career oriented, that makes me sad. The reason I'm applying is because of how it's different from other universities in this respect. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Even if it is becoming more career oriented, it has a LONG way to go before it's preprofessional in any sense of the word. My Calculus professor makes fun of engineers for fudging the math on a class by class basis. The premed program is fierce and small, and most people end up as academics it seems. Just speaking from my 100 person house, as people change their career plans over the course of this first quarter.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Thanks for the response! Yeah, thought so. I'm definitely not worried about the school completely changing to be preprofessional or anything like that. I've heard similar things about students switching majors, have talked to several, and don't doubt that people take the opportunity to try new things and switch their majors according to new interests.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "\"Please refer to the phoenix as such. All other terms (i.e., \"chicken\" or \"bird\") are discouraged, as the definition of phoenix is crucial to the meaning behind its use.\". ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Guy in my house (second year) at the homecoming game: \"I WANT A PICTURE WITH THE PARROT!\"", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "\"Please refer to the phoenix as such. All other terms (i.e., \"chicken\" or \"bird\") are discouraged, as the definition of phoenix is crucial to the meaning behind its use.\". ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Once again validating the unofficial slogan, \"where fun comes to die...\"", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "\"Please refer to the phoenix as such. All other terms (i.e., \"chicken\" or \"bird\") are discouraged, as the definition of phoenix is crucial to the meaning behind its use.\". ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Do you find yourself feeling irritated with those University of of Phoenix commercials? - I'm a phoenix... ", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Hey, just build this site. Live in South. . ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Pardon my ignorance but what's South? Is that the thing they were building behind BJ?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I think this might be spam. OP posted this link in two other places about 18 hrs ago. Why he or she thought to put it here is beyond me. Unless he or she is from UChicago. OP, care to answer, or should I just report this?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm not OP, but I'm OP's business partner, and he is indeed from UChicago (and lives on South Campus)", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Oh, excellent. Thanks for the clarification! Carry on... :)", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Advice Phoenix. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "[Ah.](http://images1.memegenerator.net/ImageMacro/4993968/Create-Advice-Phoenix-Spell-Phoenix-Correctly.jpg?imageSize=Large&generatorName=Advice-Phoenix)", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Advice Phoenix. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This is all over Facebook already... that was fast. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Yea. Thats where I found it this morning in natural hazards.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "UofC: ALL CLASSES CANCELED. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Lets see if we can milk a second day out of this, eh?", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "SNOW DAY 2: THE SNOWENING. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Got 2 midterms and a paper next week. Was supposed to have a problem session tomorrow. Don't know how I feel about this. I would probably feel better if I weren't spending so much time on reddit...", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "SNOW DAY 2: THE SNOWENING. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I realize the severity of the situation, and my feelings are perhaps mitigated by the fact that I live 5 minutes (walking) away from campus, but this seems, I dare say, pussy. \n\nDammit, are we men, or are we phoenices? ", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "SNOW DAY 2: THE SNOWENING. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My second year, we had 18 inches of snow. Nothing was canceled. Kids these days! :)\n\nAlso, as long as Jimmy's is open, all is well.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Evening shuttles resume tomorrow, will follow temporary route. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I love how it turns around in the middle of 53rd. Are they going to turn around in the Kimbark Plaza parking lot?", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Evening shuttles resume tomorrow, will follow temporary route. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Hey, I always wonder, who are those shuttles available for? Obviously they are meant for students, but can anyone get on there? Do you pay something? How do those work?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Flash a student ID.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "So they are for students only then?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "And faculty/staff. The UofC pays for them and maintains them.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Ok, thanks. I knew they belonged to the school but I didnt know if non-students could use them by paying some fee or something. Thanks", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "You can probably just hop on.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Evening shuttles resume tomorrow, will follow temporary route. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "When I was there, the \"shuttles\" were giant white school buses.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Question about UofC neighborhood.... Hi, \n\nI'm currently planning to transplant to Hyde Park from San Francisco Bay Area. I don't know much about Hyde Park, but I heard that the south side of chicago isn't safe? Is this correct? What are your views/opinions?\n\nThanks", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Welcome! Are you going to be attending the UofC?\n\nHyde Park is like any neighborhood in a big city, in that there are all kinds of elements and caution is advised. It also depends on where you're going to be living. It is unique, however, in that the University has been pushing farther south of the midway, and this does create some tension with folks who have been living in the neighborhood for a long time, and now feel displaced. Others may correct me if I'm wrong, but I think the borders are generally thought to be 47th to 61st, and Cottage Grove to Lake Michigan.\n\nIt's a slightly weird place in that it's a neighborhood of affluence (which probably couldn't be extended to the graduate students, but I'm slightly jaded :)) circumscribed by lower income neighborhoods. To this, there have been some regrettable situations. However, crime has been decreasing (not that there ever was all that much), and the University now has a very visible - and increased - police presence around the campus. Cops on every corner starting at about 4pm, and continuing through the evening. If you will be coming to the school, there are also shuttles for students that will take you around Hyde Park, [Safe Ride](http://www-news.uchicago.edu/releases/07/071121.saferide.shtml). They're also doing a lot of construction that has increased light.\n\nHyde Park is generally fine by day, and everyone walks everywhere, but in the evening, just have your head about you and it's advisable to travel with someone else. But, like I said, that's just smart advice for city livin' in general. Only on very rare occasions have I felt the need to be really guarded, however. You can always PM me if you want.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": ">I think the borders are generally thought to be 47th to 61st, and Cottage Grove to Lake Michigan.\n\nThe official border is 51st. North of that is Kenwood.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Thanks! ", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Question about UofC neighborhood.... Hi, \n\nI'm currently planning to transplant to Hyde Park from San Francisco Bay Area. I don't know much about Hyde Park, but I heard that the south side of chicago isn't safe? Is this correct? What are your views/opinions?\n\nThanks", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I've lived in Hyde Park for seven years this month. It's a safe place. There's a persistent racially based and completely unfounded belief that the south side as a whole is dangerous (it's where the black people live! gangs! muggings! OMG!). And since HP is southside, it gets lumped in.\n\nTake a look at the 60615 and 60637 zip codes on http://chicago.everyblock.com/ to get an idea of what kind of things happen around here. Long story short - crime happens everywhere, but Hyde Park is as safe as any place on the Northside. When crime patterns start to emerge in the neighborhood, the University kicks into overdrive to stop it (usually over-reacting, IMHO, but that's better than under-reacting).\n\nIf you really don't want to live in Hyde Park, I'd suggest the South Loop - it's easy to get to HP from there in 10-20 minutes on transit, and there's a lot more to do there.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Question about UofC neighborhood.... Hi, \n\nI'm currently planning to transplant to Hyde Park from San Francisco Bay Area. I don't know much about Hyde Park, but I heard that the south side of chicago isn't safe? Is this correct? What are your views/opinions?\n\nThanks", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Listening to everyone's stereotypes, I came to Hyde Park expecting to be murdered. It's turned out to be one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. The only problem is public transportation out of Hyde Park at night. It's the only reason I'll move somewhere else when I finish with school. BTW, use the MAC apartment people to find a place to live. I found them very convenient.\n\nIf you have any other questions let me know and I'll be happy to answer them.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "What kind of asshat gave you those expectations? Hyde Park is much safer than many North Side neighborhoods. The UCPD is huge, and the neighborhood is also patrolled by the CPD.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Seriously. These were a lot of poorly informed friends from \"Chicago\" by which of course I mean rich twats from the suburbs which included my raging bitch of a (now ex-) girlfriend.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I know a lot of those twats and they are all my ex girlfriend, as well.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Question about UofC neighborhood.... Hi, \n\nI'm currently planning to transplant to Hyde Park from San Francisco Bay Area. I don't know much about Hyde Park, but I heard that the south side of chicago isn't safe? Is this correct? What are your views/opinions?\n\nThanks", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Listening to everyone's stereotypes, I came to Hyde Park expecting to be murdered. It's turned out to be one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. The only problem is public transportation out of Hyde Park at night. It's the only reason I'll move somewhere else when I finish with school. BTW, use the MAC apartment people to find a place to live. I found them very convenient.\n\nIf you have any other questions let me know and I'll be happy to answer them.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "What kind of asshat gave you those expectations? Hyde Park is much safer than many North Side neighborhoods. The UCPD is huge, and the neighborhood is also patrolled by the CPD.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Seriously. These were a lot of poorly informed friends from \"Chicago\" by which of course I mean rich twats from the suburbs which included my raging bitch of a (now ex-) girlfriend.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "tl;dr this guy had a gf", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Question about UofC neighborhood.... Hi, \n\nI'm currently planning to transplant to Hyde Park from San Francisco Bay Area. I don't know much about Hyde Park, but I heard that the south side of chicago isn't safe? Is this correct? What are your views/opinions?\n\nThanks", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Listening to everyone's stereotypes, I came to Hyde Park expecting to be murdered. It's turned out to be one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. The only problem is public transportation out of Hyde Park at night. It's the only reason I'll move somewhere else when I finish with school. BTW, use the MAC apartment people to find a place to live. I found them very convenient.\n\nIf you have any other questions let me know and I'll be happy to answer them.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I'm also with MAC, im not quite *that* enthusiastic about them. They are convenient at times though. However, they are sometimes slow to make repairs, and weren't at all helpful with a strage rodent problem we had a while back.\n\nWhen my lease is up, I will consider staying with Mac, but I am definitely going to shop around.\n\nMost of all, Im definitely gonna wanna stay in Hyde Park.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Question about UofC neighborhood.... Hi, \n\nI'm currently planning to transplant to Hyde Park from San Francisco Bay Area. I don't know much about Hyde Park, but I heard that the south side of chicago isn't safe? Is this correct? What are your views/opinions?\n\nThanks", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Listening to everyone's stereotypes, I came to Hyde Park expecting to be murdered. It's turned out to be one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. The only problem is public transportation out of Hyde Park at night. It's the only reason I'll move somewhere else when I finish with school. BTW, use the MAC apartment people to find a place to live. I found them very convenient.\n\nIf you have any other questions let me know and I'll be happy to answer them.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I'm also with MAC, im not quite *that* enthusiastic about them. They are convenient at times though. However, they are sometimes slow to make repairs, and weren't at all helpful with a strage rodent problem we had a while back.\n\nWhen my lease is up, I will consider staying with Mac, but I am definitely going to shop around.\n\nMost of all, Im definitely gonna wanna stay in Hyde Park.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Question about UofC neighborhood.... Hi, \n\nI'm currently planning to transplant to Hyde Park from San Francisco Bay Area. I don't know much about Hyde Park, but I heard that the south side of chicago isn't safe? Is this correct? What are your views/opinions?\n\nThanks", "role": "user" }, { "content": "February 14, 2011 \n \nSecurity Alert\n \n11:35 a.m., Monday, February 14 – On Ellis Avenue between 61st and 62nd Street - A University student walking south on Ellis was approached from behind by an unknown male armed with a handgun. The suspect demanded a messenger style bag the victim was carrying. The victim handed the bag to the offender and was directed to continue walking south on Ellis. The victim complied and the offender ran north. The victim was not injured.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Ok, so which one of you has been trolling the A-Level?. I saw the Canon Voice Command April Fools flyer. I saw the \"Fuck That\" face on the UChicagohookups.com flyer.\n\nWhich one of you did it???", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I assume the peeps behind the site, UChicagoHookups?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Yeah I know one of the guys and that sort of thing would be right up his alley.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Ok, so which one of you has been trolling the A-Level?. I saw the Canon Voice Command April Fools flyer. I saw the \"Fuck That\" face on the UChicagohookups.com flyer.\n\nWhich one of you did it???", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I assume the peeps behind the site, UChicagoHookups?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Reveal yourselves!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I make no claim whatsoever that it may or may not have been myself.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Ok, so which one of you has been trolling the A-Level?. I saw the Canon Voice Command April Fools flyer. I saw the \"Fuck That\" face on the UChicagohookups.com flyer.\n\nWhich one of you did it???", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The Canon Voice Command flyer isn't actually in the A Level. At least, that's not where we drunkenly put it.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Well, someone else took it upon themselves to do it.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Ok, so which one of you has been trolling the A-Level?. I saw the Canon Voice Command April Fools flyer. I saw the \"Fuck That\" face on the UChicagohookups.com flyer.\n\nWhich one of you did it???", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Somebody else put up the A-level flyer. Not me, but I know who.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Car broken into at 1548 W Harrison St 4-29-11. They broke my window and stole the GPS out of the glove compartment. (Glove compartment was unlocked)", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Sucks, man.\n", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Transfer Decision. Hey guys, I'm looking to transfer out of my current university. I was accepted to a couple schools, one of them being Chicago. I'm going to be studying math and physics. I'm leaving an engineering-math double major, so I'm a little behind in terms of Core requirements, but I think I'll be all right. I'm wondering if any of you current/past students have any tidbits of information that might be relevant to my decision? \n\nThanks!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you study math here, you'll be studying in one of the hardest places on the planet where the faculty is amongst the very best in the planet in terms of research.\n\nBe prepared to work harder with less help than you're used to if you come here.\n\nThe good news is that if you can cut it, you should be able to deal with whatever the world can throw at you.\n\nYou can PM me for more info if you'd like. Be a bit more specific about where you are in terms of academics and where you've been.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I can talk about math too. Our applied math isn't that strong though, and we don't have an engineering department. One of our big t-shirt slogans is \"That's all well and good in practice, but how does it work in theory?\"", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Transfer Decision. Hey guys, I'm looking to transfer out of my current university. I was accepted to a couple schools, one of them being Chicago. I'm going to be studying math and physics. I'm leaving an engineering-math double major, so I'm a little behind in terms of Core requirements, but I think I'll be all right. I'm wondering if any of you current/past students have any tidbits of information that might be relevant to my decision? \n\nThanks!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you study math here, you'll be studying in one of the hardest places on the planet where the faculty is amongst the very best in the planet in terms of research.\n\nBe prepared to work harder with less help than you're used to if you come here.\n\nThe good news is that if you can cut it, you should be able to deal with whatever the world can throw at you.\n\nYou can PM me for more info if you'd like. Be a bit more specific about where you are in terms of academics and where you've been.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Do you really think it's one of the hardest on the planet? I would guess that there are some universities in eastern Europe and China that would require a lot more work.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Transfer Decision. Hey guys, I'm looking to transfer out of my current university. I was accepted to a couple schools, one of them being Chicago. I'm going to be studying math and physics. I'm leaving an engineering-math double major, so I'm a little behind in terms of Core requirements, but I think I'll be all right. I'm wondering if any of you current/past students have any tidbits of information that might be relevant to my decision? \n\nThanks!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "as for physics, i can tell you its gonna eat up all your time. to be honest, combined with being a year behind plus having to catch up on the core, the math/physics double major is probably a bad decision. both majors require insane amounts of time. \nto put some perspective on it, i think to get a decent grade (b, b+) you will probably spend about 10 hrs/week in a physics class. for even higher grades, itll prob be something around 15 hrs/week. combine that with core classes which i would estimate being somewhere between 7-10 hours/week (for a decent grade). \nbut if you know you want to come here, by all means do it. if you can appreciate the true value of a uchicago education, studying 40 hours/wk doesnt seem too daunting.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "For the record, I think Physics/Applied Math is a lot more doable, and if you're on the engineering side you're probably more applied anyway. If you double-major, I think all your requirements for each cover the electives of the other, which makes your life somewhat easier.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Transfer Decision. Hey guys, I'm looking to transfer out of my current university. I was accepted to a couple schools, one of them being Chicago. I'm going to be studying math and physics. I'm leaving an engineering-math double major, so I'm a little behind in terms of Core requirements, but I think I'll be all right. I'm wondering if any of you current/past students have any tidbits of information that might be relevant to my decision? \n\nThanks!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Come on in, the water's fine. ", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Transfer Decision. Hey guys, I'm looking to transfer out of my current university. I was accepted to a couple schools, one of them being Chicago. I'm going to be studying math and physics. I'm leaving an engineering-math double major, so I'm a little behind in terms of Core requirements, but I think I'll be all right. I'm wondering if any of you current/past students have any tidbits of information that might be relevant to my decision? \n\nThanks!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "CS major here, so the classes here are hard and will work you and they're definitely worth it, but keep in mind also our professors tend to be pretty friendly and open to helping students. You may be challenged but won't feel like you've been thrown to the wolves because there are a lot of resources for getting help. You just have to schedule in time to go to TA/Prof. office hours or visit a Harper tutor (or talk to people in class and make a study group).\n\nThe math crowd here is pretty quirky and fun. Be prepared for long discussions about math theory, they like to do that a lot. At least the inside math jokes are pretty good.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Transfer Decision. Hey guys, I'm looking to transfer out of my current university. I was accepted to a couple schools, one of them being Chicago. I'm going to be studying math and physics. I'm leaving an engineering-math double major, so I'm a little behind in terms of Core requirements, but I think I'll be all right. I'm wondering if any of you current/past students have any tidbits of information that might be relevant to my decision? \n\nThanks!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You're coming from an engineering background, so I just want to warn you that you'll get very little of that here. We don't have an engineering school and the math classes are very theoretical. It's great if you're into that, but if you're interested more in applied math, you might consider another school. Just FYI.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Ha, I'm entirely aware. There's a reason I'm transferring. :)", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Okay, good. I feel like there are a decent number of people here who are disappointed with the math department because of how abstract it is.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Congratulations to the Class of 2011 graduates!!!. As a fellow graduate, allow me to say: May you all be boss, and remember, be excellent to each other!!!\n\n\n\n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I think I know you. Congrats on graduating!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Pm me your guess, and ill confirm or deny ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I definitely know you.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I am spartacus", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Congratulations to the Class of 2011 graduates!!!. As a fellow graduate, allow me to say: May you all be boss, and remember, be excellent to each other!!!\n\n\n\n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Just got my MPP yesterday! Hooray! How about that laughter when Zimmer told the Booth MBAs to be \"financially responsible\"?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Hoorays and congratulations! :D", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Congratulations to the Class of 2011 graduates!!!. As a fellow graduate, allow me to say: May you all be boss, and remember, be excellent to each other!!!\n\n\n\n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Congrats! As a proud U of C grad (grad school), I urge you to wear your degree with pride!!", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Congratulations to the Class of 2011 graduates!!!. As a fellow graduate, allow me to say: May you all be boss, and remember, be excellent to each other!!!\n\n\n\n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Just graduated too. Congrats all!", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Housing around U of C. Hey /r/Uchicago! I will be moving to hyde park and was hoping you could make some housing suggestions. I have checked out the information on the UofC website about housing and was hoping that you could provide more info on the best places to live. \n\nThanks in advance.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Avoid [MAC](http://www.macapartments.com/illinois/chicago-apartments/) if possible. They are by all accounts a pretty terrible management company. Having said that, though, I'm literally putting down a deposit on a MAC apartment today, because they have a bit of a stranglehold on apartments in Hyde Park.\n\nOther places to check out:\n[TLC Management](http://www.chicagorentals.com/apartment/search) is probably MAC's biggest competitor, though that isn't saying much. They own several high-rises east of the Metra, out by the lake, that are fairly reasonable, as well as two or three larger 3-story walk-ups closer to campus.\n\nYou may have already seen it, but [UChicago Marketplace](http://marketplace.uchicago.edu/) is a big resource as well. Mostly sublets, especially this time of year, but there are some listings for leases.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I disagree: I think MAC is ok. I lived with them for a year, ending in summer 2010. They were a pretty typical large landlord: the apartment was nice, but not spectacular. I believe they have put money into fixing up some really crappy apartments. \n\nWith MAC, if you want work done, you have to call them and stay on the phone for a few minutes until you talk to a real person, but they took care of things within a few days. A few times I had to call them twice to remind them to finish the job, but if you're on top of things, you will be fine. In my experience, this is the same everywhere.\n\ntl;dr: MAC is no worse than any other landlord I have had, including small private lessors\n\nI've heard TLC is pretty bad, but have no personal experience.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Housing around U of C. Hey /r/Uchicago! I will be moving to hyde park and was hoping you could make some housing suggestions. I have checked out the information on the UofC website about housing and was hoping that you could provide more info on the best places to live. \n\nThanks in advance.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I second the no MAC advise. They control most of the apts in the area. I don't really care too much about that except that they are incompetent beyond belief. \n\nThere are a bunch of private leasers in the area. Craigslist might help. There is also [uchicagoapartments.com](http://www.uchicagoapartments.com/)", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Oh, on the Craigslist note, almost all the posts you'll find are from something called \"LeaseLink.\" This isn't a real company, it's just a marketing front for MAC. So keep that in mind.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Housing around U of C. Hey /r/Uchicago! I will be moving to hyde park and was hoping you could make some housing suggestions. I have checked out the information on the UofC website about housing and was hoping that you could provide more info on the best places to live. \n\nThanks in advance.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm subletting at a MAC place, its a really great apartment but I've heard stories too. If you moving for grad school, check out the university housing, they have a lot of good, relatively cheap places. Also, Hyde Park reddit meetup?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Second the grad student housing option.\n\nI'm down for a HP Meetup. I just got back from London and had a blast at the Global Meetup there.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Housing around U of C. Hey /r/Uchicago! I will be moving to hyde park and was hoping you could make some housing suggestions. I have checked out the information on the UofC website about housing and was hoping that you could provide more info on the best places to live. \n\nThanks in advance.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm subletting at a MAC place, its a really great apartment but I've heard stories too. If you moving for grad school, check out the university housing, they have a lot of good, relatively cheap places. Also, Hyde Park reddit meetup?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I'm down for a Hyde Park meetup, and I agree that apartments through the [University's grad student housing](http://rs.uchicago.edu/graduate_housing/index.shtml) is absolutely the way to go if you can't visit Chicago to see the place before you move in.\n\nActually, do you guys want to get milkshakes at the C-shop if they are open this Wednesday?", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Housing around U of C. Hey /r/Uchicago! I will be moving to hyde park and was hoping you could make some housing suggestions. I have checked out the information on the UofC website about housing and was hoping that you could provide more info on the best places to live. \n\nThanks in advance.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Parker Holsman tends to be a bit better than MAC. I recommend them", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Housing around U of C. Hey /r/Uchicago! I will be moving to hyde park and was hoping you could make some housing suggestions. I have checked out the information on the UofC website about housing and was hoping that you could provide more info on the best places to live. \n\nThanks in advance.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I have had zero issues with MAC apartments - I lived in the Algonquin Apartments on 51st and Cornell for 2 years. I HIGHLY and I mean HIGHLY recommend living there. Highrise living on the cheap with brand new counters, appliances and a nice gym too. The maintenance was always quick too. Also it's right by the #6, Metra Electric and the #172 to campus.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Housing around U of C. Hey /r/Uchicago! I will be moving to hyde park and was hoping you could make some housing suggestions. I have checked out the information on the UofC website about housing and was hoping that you could provide more info on the best places to live. \n\nThanks in advance.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "MAC is shit. Feel free to PM me if you want some peeps to hang out with.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I am pretty sure I know you, Kaiser.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Holy hell - email me and say hi! [email removed] -- ~~", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Dude dont put your email up like that >.< i know what it is, you *ARE* in my contacts lol, ", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Housing around U of C. Hey /r/Uchicago! I will be moving to hyde park and was hoping you could make some housing suggestions. I have checked out the information on the UofC website about housing and was hoping that you could provide more info on the best places to live. \n\nThanks in advance.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "blackstone is okay. mac sucks. private landlords are byfar the best\n\nif you can afford it, regents is nice (24 hour store, tons of amenities, door man) and this also applies to other tall apartment towers.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Housing around U of C. Hey /r/Uchicago! I will be moving to hyde park and was hoping you could make some housing suggestions. I have checked out the information on the UofC website about housing and was hoping that you could provide more info on the best places to live. \n\nThanks in advance.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm going to disagree with the notion that MAC owns most of everything in Hyde Park. It's simply not true. I looked at a few apartments with them, and their offerings are really pretty sparse. UChicago Marketplace and UChicago Apartments are good places to start.\n\nI found my apartment through Hotpads.com, as I found that there were some cheaper offerings that weren't subject to the crazy impulses of student renters. I ended up in a really sweet high rise for less than a typical old and run down MAC apartment.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Housing around U of C. Hey /r/Uchicago! I will be moving to hyde park and was hoping you could make some housing suggestions. I have checked out the information on the UofC website about housing and was hoping that you could provide more info on the best places to live. \n\nThanks in advance.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "moving to hyde park for grad schoool in sept and I just went out there 2 weeks ago from denver to rent a place. I saw a bunch of locally owned apts that were pretty crappy for the money and of course, I ended up with MAC. For me it's only a year and I ended up with a nice high rise--the windermere house, I believe is the name. Seems nicely kept and good location! Definitely looking to meet people when I move!", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's where fun goes to die.\n\nI loved it (class of '06) and can't imagine a better experience. It really depends on the type of person you are. Results may vary, as they say. PM me if you have specific questions. I'd love to answer them. I have lots of good things to say about the UofC. Go Maroons!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Happy reddit birthday fellow uchi alumnus! (or alumna?) ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Women aren't allowed to use the internet, I assume. So I am an alumnus.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "You graduated in '06? Goddammit I'm fucking old.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "SMH?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "In the cyberflesh, handsome.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I didn't even have to say \"the narwhal bacons at midnight\" or some other retarded shit.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Save that for writing on the bathroom wall at the pub.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I did my undergrad at UofC and am currently doing my grad work there as well. PM me, and I'll gladly answer your questions as I am able, but overall it was (and still is) an amazing place to work and research.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I just finished the 4 years here and i must say this school is excellent. you will be full of woes while you are here, i wont deny this. this place will push you to the limit even if you dont want it, but you will come out of it a thoroughly educated, and whats more important, eager, young mind of tomorrow, so to speak.\n\nthat said, also dont listen to those who say this school is an academic bootcamp. yeah its tough, but students are students. if you go out looking for fun, you will find it. \n\nprotip: if you come here, your first year in the dorm, make friends with the current 2nd years as a lot of them will probably move out to an apartment for 3rd/4th years and as a rule of thumb hanging out at air conditioned apartments with food, internets and netflix/x360 and apartment parties is way more fun than the 15 people crammed into someones room having a few beers.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "SUP BRO", "role": "user" }, { "content": "stop stalking me creeper. also. 5 hours ago was 10:30am. You should be doing work. now get off of reddit and do some coding. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "But but but I was on break.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "No excuses.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Wait, did you upvote my posts? Are you upvoting me annoying you?", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The school itself is really amazing for the most part. I've had really good teachers (except in low-level math courses, you can get shafted) and there are all sorts of interesting courses. That said, beware that winters can be a slog, and the house system can be a double-edged sword (good way to meet and be around people, but it can also distract from going out there and meeting others). Most common complaint is the social life and lack of stuff to do, but really, there's all sorts of cool stuff on campus and off, as long as you're looking around for it. Be sure to get off the campus if you do come. PM me if you have more questions; I'm a rising third-year, so I should be able to give you some answers. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "ditto about lower level math, ditto about awesome profs otherwise", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Come here. \n\nDespite people will tell you, it is NOT where fun comes to die. I'm a rising sophomore, and I can tell you, people who believe that, are the people who stay in their room and make no effort to do anything fun. \n\nAll of my friends are having the time of their lives, and I can say no different for myself. The professors are top notch and you will have your mind illuminated daily, while meeting some of the greatest minds of any field. \n\nPM me, and if you decide to come here, I will gladly show you around. \n\nEdit: I'll be honest though, you will work VERY hard. the hardest you will have ever worked. ", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": " The U of C was the best learning experience of my life. I commuted and worked, so I cannot attest to the fun factor in any sense. The alumni association is great too. \n", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you're willing to work hard, and are ok (or preferably enjoy) being surrounded by nerds, then you should definitely come. It's an amazing place.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Are you smart? Or interested? Do you like the idea of reading a lot and working hard to learn a lot? Would you trade having a lot of attractive people around for having a lot of interesting, slightly unsocial people around? Think MIT, except that they party way harder (those fuckers are nuts) and they specialize in technical sciences (far as I can tell) whereas we specialize in econ, physics, sociology, math, and a ton of other weirdly good programs. Well, it's obvious they have tons of great stuff I wouldn't know about. That's immaterial. There's things here that are very Ivy, and then there's things here that are very Carnegie Mellon. Maybe it's like Stanford minus the beautiful people, the beautiful weather, the highlight on compsci, the name recognition, and the sports.\n\nThere's plenty of great value in being a smart little motherfucker. But if you're looking for any kind of hands-on education, this likely isn't the place for you. Know that there is no engineering here, and that the arts sometimes get the short straw (although the new arts center is going to be out of this world). Above all, know that if you come here, there are going to be people for the rest of your life who assume you went to state school. I see this as a fantastic upside, actually. Those who needs to know that the UofC is a ridiculous school will (potential employers, admissions committees, etc). The kids from your high school and everyone you meet who has nothing to do with academics or finances will assume you're just another communications major at an anonymous big university. Not a bad thing.\n\nOur shirts sometimes say it best: \"Where fun comes to die,\" \"Hell *does* freeze over,\" and \"That's all well and good in practice, but how is it in theory?\"", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "This is probably the best reply yet, thanks!", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Are you smart? Or interested? Do you like the idea of reading a lot and working hard to learn a lot? Would you trade having a lot of attractive people around for having a lot of interesting, slightly unsocial people around? Think MIT, except that they party way harder (those fuckers are nuts) and they specialize in technical sciences (far as I can tell) whereas we specialize in econ, physics, sociology, math, and a ton of other weirdly good programs. Well, it's obvious they have tons of great stuff I wouldn't know about. That's immaterial. There's things here that are very Ivy, and then there's things here that are very Carnegie Mellon. Maybe it's like Stanford minus the beautiful people, the beautiful weather, the highlight on compsci, the name recognition, and the sports.\n\nThere's plenty of great value in being a smart little motherfucker. But if you're looking for any kind of hands-on education, this likely isn't the place for you. Know that there is no engineering here, and that the arts sometimes get the short straw (although the new arts center is going to be out of this world). Above all, know that if you come here, there are going to be people for the rest of your life who assume you went to state school. I see this as a fantastic upside, actually. Those who needs to know that the UofC is a ridiculous school will (potential employers, admissions committees, etc). The kids from your high school and everyone you meet who has nothing to do with academics or finances will assume you're just another communications major at an anonymous big university. Not a bad thing.\n\nOur shirts sometimes say it best: \"Where fun comes to die,\" \"Hell *does* freeze over,\" and \"That's all well and good in practice, but how is it in theory?\"", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "From experience, I believe the CS department to be wonderful, even if it is small. I think the people not being attractive thing is a lie. They're all just tired is all, it's more difficult to look healthy and radiant when you've been up working until 4 am and throw on a hoodie at 10. They all make up for it by having ambition, interesting hobbies, and intelligence. And oh yeah, going insane on the weekends.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Graduated '11 with a BA in Computer Science (yes, a BA). This place will forever have a piece of my heart.\n\nTo explain why I love it so much, here are some some of my favorite aspects about this school:\n\n* Open curriculum/core: you spend less then half of your time in classes devoted to your major. I'm grateful that I got a chance to explore topics that hard science majors from other schools don't get the chance to take. I studied shinto, modern dance, virtualization and the post-human, plagues, tribal music, and a host of other interesting courses. Many interesting courses have very few prerequisites, if any.\n* Faculty - the professors here are brilliant and easy to talk to for the most part, most are happy to meet with students outside of class to help them with course work or just discuss more advanced topics in the course. I had a couple extra classes in professor's homes, some so they could schedule a regular class early to let us go home a day earlier for break, and others just to have an extra session in case we needed more help. You will walk away with some great mentors rooting for you after college.\n* Fellow Students - life is awesome when you're surrounded by fun, intelligent people. The downside is that afterwards you will miss them pretty badly; I don't mean to be elitist, but U of C students are the most inquisitive and interesting people I've ever met. You'll have friends from all over the world, movie nights featuring The 5th Element, Most Extreme Elimination Challenge, and math and physics education tapes from the 70's, and trips around the city with part silly/part serious discussions analyzing every little detail of your environment.\n* Respect - this school uses an honor code in regard to its students. They admit intelligent people, and trust that they will act intelligently. While your friends are being policed in their dorms for underage drinking, you will be allowed to enjoy some wine or a six pack with your friends and trusted that you won't puke everywhere or make a lot of noise (and even when you do puke, the RA's/RH's are far more likely to give you water and help you to bed if it's not serious then send you to the hospital and put you in front of the dean later). Besides that, the administration and faculty will treat you as an individual with your own goals and interests. You will have lots of opportunity to design your own curriculum, make your own projects, create your own paper prompts, etc. You will never feel like a wrangled child here, and even if you do I'm sure 100 other students would stand by you to rally against something you feel is wrong. Being a student at the U of C means you are going to learn to take initiative, be responsible for yourself, speak up for yourself with maturity, and most importantly learn how to never stop learning.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Wow, they should get you to work for the admissions department. \n\nSounds like what I'm looking for in a college.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Graduated '11 with a BA in Computer Science (yes, a BA). This place will forever have a piece of my heart.\n\nTo explain why I love it so much, here are some some of my favorite aspects about this school:\n\n* Open curriculum/core: you spend less then half of your time in classes devoted to your major. I'm grateful that I got a chance to explore topics that hard science majors from other schools don't get the chance to take. I studied shinto, modern dance, virtualization and the post-human, plagues, tribal music, and a host of other interesting courses. Many interesting courses have very few prerequisites, if any.\n* Faculty - the professors here are brilliant and easy to talk to for the most part, most are happy to meet with students outside of class to help them with course work or just discuss more advanced topics in the course. I had a couple extra classes in professor's homes, some so they could schedule a regular class early to let us go home a day earlier for break, and others just to have an extra session in case we needed more help. You will walk away with some great mentors rooting for you after college.\n* Fellow Students - life is awesome when you're surrounded by fun, intelligent people. The downside is that afterwards you will miss them pretty badly; I don't mean to be elitist, but U of C students are the most inquisitive and interesting people I've ever met. You'll have friends from all over the world, movie nights featuring The 5th Element, Most Extreme Elimination Challenge, and math and physics education tapes from the 70's, and trips around the city with part silly/part serious discussions analyzing every little detail of your environment.\n* Respect - this school uses an honor code in regard to its students. They admit intelligent people, and trust that they will act intelligently. While your friends are being policed in their dorms for underage drinking, you will be allowed to enjoy some wine or a six pack with your friends and trusted that you won't puke everywhere or make a lot of noise (and even when you do puke, the RA's/RH's are far more likely to give you water and help you to bed if it's not serious then send you to the hospital and put you in front of the dean later). Besides that, the administration and faculty will treat you as an individual with your own goals and interests. You will have lots of opportunity to design your own curriculum, make your own projects, create your own paper prompts, etc. You will never feel like a wrangled child here, and even if you do I'm sure 100 other students would stand by you to rally against something you feel is wrong. Being a student at the U of C means you are going to learn to take initiative, be responsible for yourself, speak up for yourself with maturity, and most importantly learn how to never stop learning.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "**bump**\n\nI'm applying to UChicago (Essay prompt: \"don't write about reverse psychology\" ಠ\\_ಠ)\n, and while I want to go to school that is rigorous, I don't want to go just so I can take a bunch of difficult classes and grind out a degree. That is a huge turn off for me. Some people, like you, make it sound like an amazing place with lots of oportunities, but some people make it sound like well... \"where fun comes to die.\" I don't mind working hard (I like learning), but I'm not a machine. I want to enjoy college. I'm not really a party-er or anything, but I do want to have some time to enjoy myself every once in awhile. \n\nAdditionally, how is the science program? I'm looking at majoring in chemistry and I know that UChicago is more of a liberal arts college and I haven't heard anything specific about their science department.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "That is a brilliant essay prompt. It should be fun to write.\n\nThings here are rigorous, as any top school should be, but it is definitely not a place where you'll be a machine for four years. I'm entering my fourth year as a dual-degree BA/MA student, and I've had more than my share of fun--I'm heavily active in two clubs, and I spend the vast majority of my weekends just relaxing (hanging out with friends, going to parties, catching up on tv shows, etc.). In fact, I was actually surprised at the amount of down-time I had in college. Most of my friends would say the same.\n\nFun fact: the house that created the slogan \"where fun comes to die\" was actually the house that had the most alcohol-related citations that year. \n\nAs for our science program--it's really, really, really good. There are a LOT of research opportunities for students, even in their first year. We have plenty Nobel winners in our faculty. The College, overall, is liberal artsy. However, the University as a whole is a multi-billion dollar research institution, and you'll definitely have the opportunity to take advantage of this as a undergraduate.\n\nBut I would caution you if your interests are in engineering/practical sciences. We're much more academic/research oriented than \"I'm gonna build shit\" oriented. That said, the university just announced that they are going to create an engineering center this upcoming year, which would eventually lead to an engineering school, so things might be changing. Who knows.\n\nI absolutely love this school and everything that it has to offer. If you got any questions, feel free to PM me.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Haha yeah it is, but I decided to choose a different one (I couldn't think of a way of tackling that one). The prompt I wrote on is \"Spanish poet Antonio Machado wrote, “Between living and dreaming there is a third thing. Guess it.” Give us your guess.\" \n\nExcellent. Everything that I've heard indicates that it'd be a great school for me, but of course you only ever hear the positive things from admissions agents. The only qualm I have so far is the weather, but that's something I'd have to deal with (just like everyone else).\n\nThank you very much for the response! So far I'm excited at the idea of going there (I live in California), and acceptance is very well within possibility. If I have any other questions I'll let you know :)", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The weather's a bitch. There's no denying that. \n\nBest of luck to you and your entire college admissions process.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Graduated '11 with a BA in Computer Science (yes, a BA). This place will forever have a piece of my heart.\n\nTo explain why I love it so much, here are some some of my favorite aspects about this school:\n\n* Open curriculum/core: you spend less then half of your time in classes devoted to your major. I'm grateful that I got a chance to explore topics that hard science majors from other schools don't get the chance to take. I studied shinto, modern dance, virtualization and the post-human, plagues, tribal music, and a host of other interesting courses. Many interesting courses have very few prerequisites, if any.\n* Faculty - the professors here are brilliant and easy to talk to for the most part, most are happy to meet with students outside of class to help them with course work or just discuss more advanced topics in the course. I had a couple extra classes in professor's homes, some so they could schedule a regular class early to let us go home a day earlier for break, and others just to have an extra session in case we needed more help. You will walk away with some great mentors rooting for you after college.\n* Fellow Students - life is awesome when you're surrounded by fun, intelligent people. The downside is that afterwards you will miss them pretty badly; I don't mean to be elitist, but U of C students are the most inquisitive and interesting people I've ever met. You'll have friends from all over the world, movie nights featuring The 5th Element, Most Extreme Elimination Challenge, and math and physics education tapes from the 70's, and trips around the city with part silly/part serious discussions analyzing every little detail of your environment.\n* Respect - this school uses an honor code in regard to its students. They admit intelligent people, and trust that they will act intelligently. While your friends are being policed in their dorms for underage drinking, you will be allowed to enjoy some wine or a six pack with your friends and trusted that you won't puke everywhere or make a lot of noise (and even when you do puke, the RA's/RH's are far more likely to give you water and help you to bed if it's not serious then send you to the hospital and put you in front of the dean later). Besides that, the administration and faculty will treat you as an individual with your own goals and interests. You will have lots of opportunity to design your own curriculum, make your own projects, create your own paper prompts, etc. You will never feel like a wrangled child here, and even if you do I'm sure 100 other students would stand by you to rally against something you feel is wrong. Being a student at the U of C means you are going to learn to take initiative, be responsible for yourself, speak up for yourself with maturity, and most importantly learn how to never stop learning.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "**bump**\n\nI'm applying to UChicago (Essay prompt: \"don't write about reverse psychology\" ಠ\\_ಠ)\n, and while I want to go to school that is rigorous, I don't want to go just so I can take a bunch of difficult classes and grind out a degree. That is a huge turn off for me. Some people, like you, make it sound like an amazing place with lots of oportunities, but some people make it sound like well... \"where fun comes to die.\" I don't mind working hard (I like learning), but I'm not a machine. I want to enjoy college. I'm not really a party-er or anything, but I do want to have some time to enjoy myself every once in awhile. \n\nAdditionally, how is the science program? I'm looking at majoring in chemistry and I know that UChicago is more of a liberal arts college and I haven't heard anything specific about their science department.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm not too sure, I never took a chem class. I do know that the math department is full of magic, personally I vouch for the l337ness of the CS department, physics has a lot of peppy camaraderie, and bio is full of wonder and fascination. So I'm guessing chem is probably keeping up with those.\n\nSo the secret to the work thing is that you will be taking classes that are far more mentally mature and contain more difficult material then your friends will have at other colleges, BUT admissions only accepts students that they think can handle it. You will have weeks where you feel just swamped, but if you go to a college and never experience this you aren't getting your money's worth. I had plenty of time to chill and watch some hulu, drink with friends on the weekend, explore Chicago, attend something cool on campus (play Scav, yes I believe that is the right verb for that, IM sports, live music, art exhibits, super awesome library exhibits where you get to touch rare books that might be 100's of years old, etc.).\n\nAlso, a lot of those phrases are tongue-in-cheek. I had way more fun then some of my friends at other schools because of a) the honor code and b) the mix of interesting people. Both of those aspects blend beautifully into some really fun times.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I would assume so. I hear that research is huge too, which would be nice.\n\n>You will have weeks where you feel just swamped, but if you go to a college and never experience this you aren't getting your money's worth.\n\nI definitely agree. I do want to learn and to challenge myself, but of course I don't want it to be stressed out *all* the time (though, I rarely get **that** stressed. Even when I'm stuck up shit creek, I just deal with it. I bitch and complain like nobody's business, but I get it done). I also like the idea of being able to take a variety of classes. There are a lot of subjects that I'd want to at least have a base of knowledge in, and if I went to a more technical school I'm not sure if that'd be possible. \n\nI figured it was mostly a joke, but there's always a kernel of truth in those kinds of jokes. I guess everything was sounding almost \"too good to be true\" and that was the catch, so to speak. Good to hear that it's not all that way though, and hearing all these great stories just makes me more eager to apply. Everyone I've listened to (people in this thread, and some people in my area) have said that they loved UChicago. Right now, it's probably my top choice, but that's not saying much because I still have a lot of research to do (and a lot of essays to right :|). \n\nOn a side note, Do you know much about the athletics? Specifically swimming? ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I know athletics are third tier or something like that. There is a swim team and a pool that's open til 9 I think (of course it has a schedule of free swim versus classes/teams). I know IM tries to get water polo going each year, but sometimes dorm houses don't rally enough support for that one to make a team. Make sure you put \"I LIKE SPORTS!!!\" on your housing preferences, these really do make a difference. I was happily placed with the math nerds who played video games and were connoisseurs of educational films from the 80's. But then again I put some eclectic interests on my preferences. There are a few gung-ho houses that would love to play sports with you. I would say go for Max, Scampy (South Campus), or Pierce for that (others may want to verify those statements, I was a BJ/Shoreland person myself).\n\nIf you like frisbee, I recommend hanging out with the frisbee team or trying out for it. Absolutely one of the best groups on campus, I went skydiving with a few of them last year. And ultimate is a lot of fun. They're really nice and throw some of the best parties.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I'm not a jock or anything, but I do swim (I don't play other sports). Though Frisbee **is** a lot of fun. We used to play it before practice on Friday's before our coach left and our new one became a dick :(\n\nAnyway, thanks a ton for all the information! :)", "role": "user" }, { "content": "frisbee will be played by everyone and anyone. we have a club team on campus as well that travels and lays down pretty decent smackdowns on other frisbee teams, and then drowns the victory in copious amount of beer. good stuff. \n\n", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I graduated in '06 with an econ degree and I loved it, and I miss it. I've gone on to do a couple graduate degrees (a ton of our alumni go on to graduate studies all over the world) but it really cannot compare with the UofC experience. I know I'm late to the response game in this thread but feel free to PM me if you have any questions you'd like me to try and answer.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm applying too!\nI'm doing the Play-Doh/Plato prompt.\n\nPersonally, I feel that all the mail I'm getting from Chicago is an attempt by them to increase the number of applicants to look more selective, but it's silly.\n\nWhere else are you applying?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I'm not going to be applying for another year, but I'm looking at UT, A&M, and VT.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Are you a Texas resident, too?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Yep.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm applying too!\nI'm doing the Play-Doh/Plato prompt.\n\nPersonally, I feel that all the mail I'm getting from Chicago is an attempt by them to increase the number of applicants to look more selective, but it's silly.\n\nWhere else are you applying?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I'm not going to be applying for another year, but I'm looking at UT, A&M, and VT.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Are you a Texas resident, too?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Yep.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm applying too!\nI'm doing the Play-Doh/Plato prompt.\n\nPersonally, I feel that all the mail I'm getting from Chicago is an attempt by them to increase the number of applicants to look more selective, but it's silly.\n\nWhere else are you applying?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I'm not going to be applying for another year, but I'm looking at UT, A&M, and VT.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Are you a Texas resident, too?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Yep.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm applying too!\nI'm doing the Play-Doh/Plato prompt.\n\nPersonally, I feel that all the mail I'm getting from Chicago is an attempt by them to increase the number of applicants to look more selective, but it's silly.\n\nWhere else are you applying?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I did the \"Between living and dreaming there is a third thing. Guess it\" prompt. Good stuff. \n\nHaha you've been nailed with the barrage as well? They've sent me several letters/cards and 2 (identical) posters. Like bro, I'm already interested, you can lay off the mail already :P\n\n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Well, to me, the third thing is 'being', and then I would go on to talk about what being really means in a Nietzschean context and what I take from it. I would also reference Milan Kundera's 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being'. When you've got college essays, feel free to ask me for ideas. I have bullshitting life and school down to a science. \n\nEvery prompt is so great.\n\nThey sent me a monogrammed postcard thing. It was great. the poster hangs in my room as a reminder of the good pursuits in life.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Haha I wrote about how \"uncertainty\" is the third thing (uncertainty lays between a goal/dream and making it a reality), and how it helps us to grow and develop our identities. Are we supposed to cite concrete evidence (like those of philosophers)? I just sort of reasoned everything out. Haha thanks, if I ever find my bullshitting skills insufficient, I'll shoot you a message.\n\nHonestly, I think that anyone who people tend to think of as \"smart\" is really just a pro at BS'ing the system. \"Start this summer homework early!\" Time left to do AP lit homework before the year starts? About 3 weeks. Volume to read? 1200+ pages and an essay. Challenge accepted (and looks like it's going to be accomplished, while still having a social life. Awww yeah).", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm a bit late to this thread, but I just want to throw in my 2 cents -\n\nEveryone else has already touched on the academic excellence bit, so I'll just take that for granted. UChicago has been incredible because of the diversity of its population - every type of person exists here on campus. Whatever or whoever you're looking for here, you will find. The house system is great, I highly recommend you fully utilize it. My first year, I spent most of my time just hanging out with my housemates, but once I got to know the 2nd years I was able to meet 3rd and 4th years through them, who knew even more people. Your house will be a great jumping off block to many different groups.\n\nAs for the whole \"where fun goes to die\" slogan, you're going to school in arguably the greatest city in the nation - if you can't manage to have a bit of fun, best of luck finding that in the cornfields of a state school.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "What's the ethical diversity like? I come from a school that has an incredible amount of racial diversity (I live in California), and I'd probably feel a little awk (at first anyway) if I went to a school that didn't have at least some degree of diversity. \n\nHaha our local schools are actually fairly kickass. My friend goes to UCSB (which is on the coast) and is always reminding us about how amazing it is go to a school that's literally on the beach ಠ\\_ಠ\n", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Hello, U of C. I'm a high school student in a different state and I've been getting a lot of mail from your admissions office. It sounds like a pretty sweet school, but what do you guys (actual students) have to say about it?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "What are you thinking of studying? PM me, current student. ", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "UChicago Student Dies in Small Plane Crash. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "aye. Met her once. good person. Sad things are afoot :(", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "UChicago Student Dies in Small Plane Crash. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "RIP", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Saw these pictures of a run-down Shoreland and almost cried. I lived there (Compton House!) in the late 80s/early 90s. Was it really like this toward the end?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I lived in the Shoreland in the 2006-2007 school year. It was still pretty decent and livable. They took (at least some of) those pictures after they'd started work in preparation for the rehab (e.g. the ripped out carpets).\n\nOr maybe that last group there just went nuts with the place, hard to say for sure.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Saw these pictures of a run-down Shoreland and almost cried. I lived there (Compton House!) in the late 80s/early 90s. Was it really like this toward the end?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I was there until the second-last year--as GAdam said, these are from after the U of C handed it over. The worst of it happened because a pipe broke or the roof leaked or something like that after everyone moved out. Have you seen the planned restoration photos? They'll cheer you right up.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Saw these pictures of a run-down Shoreland and almost cried. I lived there (Compton House!) in the late 80s/early 90s. Was it really like this toward the end?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I lived there in 2002-2003 and it was pretty nice, though the ballroom was in disrepair.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Saw these pictures of a run-down Shoreland and almost cried. I lived there (Compton House!) in the late 80s/early 90s. Was it really like this toward the end?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I lived there from 1999 to 2002 and there were still plenty of signs of its former glory. The school had clearly been letting it decline but I still wouldn't have traded my room there for any other dorm on campus. \n\nThere's nothing like coming home from classes to an 11th floor lakeview apartment. ", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Saw these pictures of a run-down Shoreland and almost cried. I lived there (Compton House!) in the late 80s/early 90s. Was it really like this toward the end?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "no. this is after they stripped all the carpets our when people mvoed out. normal state was decent.\n\nalso last year it was great they allowed students to paint the walls if they wanted to because after that no mas.\n\nit was a good way to say goodbye to shoreland. many a penises were drawn on various walls during finals week of the last spring shoreland ever saw...", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Saw these pictures of a run-down Shoreland and almost cried. I lived there (Compton House!) in the late 80s/early 90s. Was it really like this toward the end?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "FISHBEIN WHATUP ('01-'04)\n\nAs others said, this is after they started the renovation.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Fishbein lives! ('83-'87)", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Saw these pictures of a run-down Shoreland and almost cried. I lived there (Compton House!) in the late 80s/early 90s. Was it really like this toward the end?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I was there in the last two years. It didn't look like this during those years, because this is after part of the building has been gutted in preparation for the apartments and whatnot. It was still a super awesome dorm, though a bit rundown to be certain. I moved to the new dorm the next year, which was cleaner, closer to campus, and much closer to a dining hall (i.e. 10 feet away), but it still didn't hold the same place in my heart. Plus, shoreland apartments FTW", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Saw these pictures of a run-down Shoreland and almost cried. I lived there (Compton House!) in the late 80s/early 90s. Was it really like this toward the end?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The 1st, 13th, and 14th are from my house. Hurray :D", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Saw these pictures of a run-down Shoreland and almost cried. I lived there (Compton House!) in the late 80s/early 90s. Was it really like this toward the end?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Oh man, class of 2011, lived in Compton for my first two years. Easily the greatest time of my life, except for that one incident during which we got into a rivalry with Bishop, and some of their first years decided it was a good idea to egg my room. Also the \"wreck shit up because this place is falling apart anyways\" kind of get out of hand each spring. These pictures a a bit worse than when it was actually being lived in (08-09 was the last year), but some people had less-than-benign treatment of the Shoreland simply because they new it was old and closing down.\n\nEdit: Wow this thread was almost from half a year ago, how the hell did I even find this...", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "U of C Buys Borders Building on 53rd: Possible Trader Joe's Location? . ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "With the giant Whole Foods coming to HP?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Yeah, this makes practically no sense, unless the administration is afraid that Whole Foods will back out (apparently something they occasionally do). I think Trader Joe's might be more profitable around HP since it's cheaper and a little funkier, but then there's all the money in Kenwood that'll stream in anyway.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This would be huge. Hype Park isnt a food desert, but Tisland is just too expensive. I Peapod, unfortunately.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "U of C Buys Borders Building on 53rd: Possible Trader Joe's Location? . ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "With the giant Whole Foods coming to HP?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "This is my fear. I'd much rather have a Trader Joe's instead of Rape Island and Whole Paycheck, but I feel like it's too late at this point to hope for affordable groceries in HP.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I get the Whole Paycheck thing but Rape Island...\n\nPlease explain", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Because TI rapes your wallet. Sorry, didn't think I was the only one that called it that.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "AHH now I get it.\n\nYou're not the only one, my friend used to but I just wanted to get an explanation.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "U of C Buys Borders Building on 53rd: Possible Trader Joe's Location? . ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I hope Hyde Park Produce can stay in business. I love that store!", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Moving to the Hyde Park area. So I'm going to be moving to one of the University's graduate student apartments pretty soon and I'm trying to figure out the best way to actually transport my stuff to the area. I don't have a whole lot of stuff, probably about enough furniture to put in one room. I was thinking about using a Relocube (http://www.upack.com/moving-services/moving-container.asp), which can fit in a parking spot, but I'm kind of concerned about the truck that would be needed to transport it since it would have to maneuver the streets and all. Does anybody have any good tips on the best moving options in the area? Thanks!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Like the Olivia Gude's famous mural at 56rd and Lake Park says, \"Where are you going? Where are you coming from?\" The streets are entirely navigable with all sorts of trucks. I've done with an 18' U-Haul, so you should be fine. Woodlawn and Ellis are big north-south thoroughfares in Hyde Park, as well as the odd 50s going east-west. Try to move at off-peak traffic times, and you'll be good. Ballsface has the right idea. U-Haul will most like be the cheapest. Keep the questions coming, and PM me with any and all questions about Hyde Park, if you like. Good hunting; stay frosty.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I'd actually advise against doing Woodlawn in a truck, especially if OP is nervous about handling a big vehicle. Woodlawn is a bit on the narrow side. Use the bigger one-way streets to go north or south - Greenwood is a good south-bound.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Greenwood is dicey small, but then again, I don't know where he's trying to get. Woodlawn is plenty wide for an 18-ft U-Haul, I can tell you that. I've done it with no problem. I guess it depends on how comfortable the OP is with driving a truck.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Moving to the Hyde Park area. So I'm going to be moving to one of the University's graduate student apartments pretty soon and I'm trying to figure out the best way to actually transport my stuff to the area. I don't have a whole lot of stuff, probably about enough furniture to put in one room. I was thinking about using a Relocube (http://www.upack.com/moving-services/moving-container.asp), which can fit in a parking spot, but I'm kind of concerned about the truck that would be needed to transport it since it would have to maneuver the streets and all. Does anybody have any good tips on the best moving options in the area? Thanks!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Like the Olivia Gude's famous mural at 56rd and Lake Park says, \"Where are you going? Where are you coming from?\" The streets are entirely navigable with all sorts of trucks. I've done with an 18' U-Haul, so you should be fine. Woodlawn and Ellis are big north-south thoroughfares in Hyde Park, as well as the odd 50s going east-west. Try to move at off-peak traffic times, and you'll be good. Ballsface has the right idea. U-Haul will most like be the cheapest. Keep the questions coming, and PM me with any and all questions about Hyde Park, if you like. Good hunting; stay frosty.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I just realized that I wasn't very clear, but I'm actually moving long distance from Kansas City and luckily for myself and the residents of Hyde Park, I will most likely not be driving the truck myself. That's kind of why I was looking at a relocube--they'll drive it long distance and drop it off wherever I need it. But it's good to know that trucks can maneuver on the streets relatively easily (I've only visited Hyde Park for my interview in the dead of winter...so I didn't explore too much). I have no problem moving at off-peak hours, so I'll probably stake out a parking spot and leave the rest to the professionals. Thanks for your help!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Once you get unpacked, the first thing you need to do is go to the the Woodlawn Tap during the day, and you'll see a shaved-head bartender. His name is Matt. Introduce yourself. Frequent Jimmy's during his shift and he will take care of you, always.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Moving to the Hyde Park area. So I'm going to be moving to one of the University's graduate student apartments pretty soon and I'm trying to figure out the best way to actually transport my stuff to the area. I don't have a whole lot of stuff, probably about enough furniture to put in one room. I was thinking about using a Relocube (http://www.upack.com/moving-services/moving-container.asp), which can fit in a parking spot, but I'm kind of concerned about the truck that would be needed to transport it since it would have to maneuver the streets and all. Does anybody have any good tips on the best moving options in the area? Thanks!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "To echo the previous posters, you should have no issue with any sort of truck. Your bigger concern may be finding a parking spot that can fit your container near your apartment. There's always parking to be found (especially during off-peak hours) but sometimes you may need to park a little bit further away than you might like. Feel free to PM if you have any more questions, I'm in Hyde Park/Kenwood at 51st. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I'm a little bit late to this, but just in case, if you contact the alderman, I'm not sure which ward the poster is in, you can reserve your spot. In fact, I think that you are supposed to do that. ", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Econ at Chicago? (x-post from r/Chicago -.-). ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "How is it like to be an econ major at Chicago?\n\nFYI: considering applying here by the way; I have heard about many horror stories there that I'm sure are rumors, but still sort of make me not want to go... (apparently there's lines/zones near the college you don't want to venture in because of...) so just let me know in general things I can't catch from brochures or rumors. Thanks! Looks like Chicago is the most active college subreddit so far :)\n", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "A recent econ grad here. Well, it really depends what you're looking for as an econ major (i.e. thinking of grad school vs pure econ student vs banker-to-be). I went into it as just one of those kids interest in econ, but not really banking, and not really thinking of a PhD either, and it turned out well enough. :)\n\nFirst thing to know: UChicago does econ with a LOT of math. You don't have to like math (I don't), but if it makes you run away screaming this is probably not the place for you. The first class of the calculus for econ (Math 150s) starts you on the delta-epsilon proof, which most other colleges don't even teach to their undergrads. Core econ classes are taught mostly through math, too: you'll learn some hypothesis, then build a math model that supports the theory, and run variations on it for homework (which, by the way, is all math problems and takes like, four/five hours per problem set, so all the hardcore stuff is true). Electives run the whole gamut: there's stuff for finance types, stuff for public policy types, history, regions. Including stuff without math (on the other hand, the without math record for me is ten pages, single-spaced, for one assignment). The classes offered can be publicly found [here](http://collegecatalog.uchicago.edu/thecollege/economics/), no password required. \n\nThe econ major gives you one heck of an econ education, even moreso if you actually go out of the way to take the hard classes that will kick your ass. On the other hand, you can also wiggle by without getting killed if you really need to. UChicago does, however, take Chicago School (i.e. neoclassical) econ very seriously, so you will sadly miss out on learning stuff that is generally taught everywhere else at less... ideological schools, like the ISLM. It's not done patronizingly, they will mention it, but you just won't work on it.\n\nSecurity? Okay, go pull up the college on Google Maps. The \"safe zone\" is generally considered to be bounded on the south by 61st street, on the west by Cottage Grove, and by 49th St to the North, with the lake to the east. That is a pretty decently sized chunk of land. It's also not like you're gonna get gunned down the minute you step below 61st. Hell, my housemate (college housing house) used to buy liquor in the 70-something streets. It's just not the best idea in the world. Within, Hyde Park is an urban area, with urban area crime. You don't walk down alleys at night by yourself, hefting your laptop and ipod. People have been mugged within Hyde Park, but nothing that, say, an average New Yorker wouldn't face.\n\nYou can keep asking questions and/or PM me, I'll be more than happy to answer - I had a great time at dear old fun-comes-to-die. :) If you want to be challenged at college, this is the place.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "We covered Delta-epsilon proofs in my rather shitty school :P\n\nI'm interested in Econ, and I guess my main questions are (if you don't mind!)\n\n* How much would the Chicago School econ courses affect my job prospects/graduate work compared to say a more Keynesian course offered at most other universities?\n\n* How much focus is on undergrads? I went to this presentation by my regional admssions director, and I didn't get good vibes, mainly the vibes that UChicago was mainly a graduate research based school.\n\nI'm kind of on the fence about applying to UChicago, but I'm also really interested in the sort of math based econ that say MIT or Princeton's ORFE offers. I think I might shoot an application to UChicago anyway, but any insight would be appreciated!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "You are well placed to survive the first two weeks of math then. :) There's actually a semi-famous lecture that the math department gives every year called the Uncle Vanya lecture, where some Chekhov is read aloud and the head of the math department proceeds to teach all the ickle first-years how to delta-epsilon their way to victory, and also solves an audience-provided equation with nothing more than his mind and the blackboard. Rather epic.\n\nEh, if you're talking about econ grad school I'm probably not very qualified to talk about it, since I promptly sold out and got a job where I can pay rent. If anecdotal evidence helps, I know people who have graduated and gone on to the UPenn, CMU and UChicago PhD programs, as well as others who have gone on to do financial engineering at Princeton, NYU Courant and Oxford. If you're talking about I-Banking or finance, I don't think school ideology matters at all, really. Never heard of anyone who was tested on actual pure econ in a banking interview, heh. I remember getting asked probability problems about sinking submarines and where did the Dow close yesterday and not much actual econ. We can also take classes at Chicago Booth (the business school), so that helps with finance/consulting/business recruiting.\n\nIt is true that the economics *department* is very much more oriented towards graduate work, but the *college* as a whole is still very much there for undergrads. It's more of an accidental, gentle neglect sort of deal, really. However, the nice thing about UChicago is that you can go as far as you want down the aisle of difficulty, even as an undergrad. I know multiple people who have done graduate classes (e.g. seminars with Gary Becker) as undergrads. There's the econ honors sequence where you do a research project for your final year under the supervision of a professor. Most professors are also perfectly willing to give you the time of the day - I once spent over an hour chatting with Roger Myerson, an econ prof who won the Nobel for some game theory stuff he did, just sat there talking with him and it was terrific (actually I was really trying to get into his class, bugger it, but I mean, an HOUR with some random undergrad). A focus on graduates also isn't necessarily a bad thing - remember that the grad students will become your lecturers and TAs, so there's a reason why schools pay so much attention to their graduate programs. The University as a whole absolutely *adores* the undergrads, since the College and the B-school are the only segments making any money. Most of the fancy gothic buildings on the quads are for undergrads, and the vast majority of the school-centric social life and school traditions are run by undergrads for undergrads. So yes, the graduate program is stronger than the undergraduate program and probably takes priority in the econ department's eyes, but the undergrad program in and of itself is still one of the best (if not *the* best) in the world.\n\nIf you're looking at math-based programs, you should definitely be applying. Aside from the main econ major, the math department also offers a major called math with a specialization in economics, which you should check out - a lot of the kids I know who went off to math-heavy econ grad programs actually did Math Spec rather than econ. The grand poo-bah of mathy econ courses in the econ department is honors econometrics, a class so terrifying that fully half the kids quit in the first week, including avowed curve-ruiners such as a my friend who went off to grad school at Princeton. \n\nFeel free to keep asking away. :) ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "oh wow, thanks! You've answered all of my questions about the econ (and more), so thanks!\n\nFor the school spirit side of things, did you enjoy your time at UChicago because I've read that it's where fun goes to die and where you'll want to transfer out immediately. Do people in general like being at UChicago?\n\nAnd the most important question: why did Derrick Rose choke in the conference finals?", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Econ at Chicago? (x-post from r/Chicago -.-). ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You become a tool. No seriously, you become a tool. It's better than becoming a poli sci major: they just say hegemony a lot, along with other vocabulary words.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Econ at Chicago? (x-post from r/Chicago -.-). ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I majored in econ at chicago, graduated about 6 years ago. \nMy advice is to apply, most definitely. \nThe classes are rigorous and challenging, which is good. Yes, you are learning models that aren't really relevant to reality. But as long as you understand that, you aren't in danger of forever becoming a neoclassicist. Moreover, there are behavioral economists at the Booth school, so you can get other, more contemporary points of view.\nMore than anything, you will learn to think. And it looks very good on your resume.\nSafety is not an issue as long as you have common sense. ", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Econ at Chicago? (x-post from r/Chicago -.-). ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I did not go for an econ major, but knew a lot of people that did. The major at U of C does complement a double major very well if you're interested in that. A very popular mix is math/econ, and these kids tend to do very well for themselves and have a lot of opportunity after college (you will also find that many companies with open jobs and internships look to the U of C for this, the UofC career site CAPS is just full of job posts asking for these kids). However, I have also met a few other interesting econ spins with other soft science majors. In my opinion it'd be a great choice if you would like to go the adventurous route and take something you're really passionate about and mod it out with something that will help you form a unique career afterwards.", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Anyone want a desk and chair? (xpost r/ChiList). ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This posting has expired.\n\n(The title on the listings page will be removed in just a few minutes.)\n\n:(", "role": "assistant" } ]
[ { "content": "Interested in U of C, what do fellow redditors have to say about it?. I'm applying to schools this month/next month (I want to get a head start) and I think U of C is on the top of my list. I visited the campus (I'm a Connecticut resident) in July on a trip to Chicago, and just fell in love with it (your main quad is gorgeous!). I'm sure that your academics are strong, but I'm curious about the social life and other things that you guys take part in when outside the classroom.\n\nAlso, I'm just wondering how difficult it was to get into U of C? Did you guys have anything up your sleeves on your applications (ECs, etc) that you think got you in? I suppose I'm just really nervous about it all. \n\nAnyway, thanks a ton, guys!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Rising third year here. We were the first class to use the common app, which means we were the last class to get pretty damn easy admission (relative to other schools like us at least). From what I hear it's getting harder, and I think our admissions rate has gone down every year since, dramatically. Personally, I think the majority of it is about grades and a good writing portion, so I wouldn't worry terribly about extra curricular stuff.\n\nIf you're looking for a school with awesome greek life and parties, this may not be the place, but there are tons of interesting and really smart people around, and lots of groups on campus for a whole lot of interests. It can be a mixed bag sometimes, because people tend to take the self-deprecating stuff a wee bit far, but that's avoidable. Hyde Park is cool if you explore it (and of course Chicago is cool) and it's bound to get way better during your time at UoC if you come (there's a lot of development planned).\n\nI really like the university: it's beautiful, the city surrounding is awesome, there are lots of cool people and professors around. It's not always peachy (winters can drag on, especially), and we're known for being a little socially awkward, but it's ultimately been a really cool experience.\n\nLong enough for ya? :)", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Not bad. Also, one thing you can play with (if they still allow it) is that you can submit a picture with your app. I had fun with that. Two of my friends are admissions counselors, actually. I doubt they'd tell me what gets you in, since there's probably no magic potion, but I bet they could help say what fucks an application over. I specifically remember one of them telling me that sometimes he reads essays and they start nicely and then they just get extremely boring. So don't do that.", "role": "user" } ]
[ { "content": "Interested in U of C, what do fellow redditors have to say about it?. I'm applying to schools this month/next month (I want to get a head start) and I think U of C is on the top of my list. I visited the campus (I'm a Connecticut resident) in July on a trip to Chicago, and just fell in love with it (your main quad is gorgeous!). I'm sure that your academics are strong, but I'm curious about the social life and other things that you guys take part in when outside the classroom.\n\nAlso, I'm just wondering how difficult it was to get into U of C? Did you guys have anything up your sleeves on your applications (ECs, etc) that you think got you in? I suppose I'm just really nervous about it all. \n\nAnyway, thanks a ton, guys!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Rising third year here. We were the first class to use the common app, which means we were the last class to get pretty damn easy admission (relative to other schools like us at least). From what I hear it's getting harder, and I think our admissions rate has gone down every year since, dramatically. Personally, I think the majority of it is about grades and a good writing portion, so I wouldn't worry terribly about extra curricular stuff.\n\nIf you're looking for a school with awesome greek life and parties, this may not be the place, but there are tons of interesting and really smart people around, and lots of groups on campus for a whole lot of interests. It can be a mixed bag sometimes, because people tend to take the self-deprecating stuff a wee bit far, but that's avoidable. Hyde Park is cool if you explore it (and of course Chicago is cool) and it's bound to get way better during your time at UoC if you come (there's a lot of development planned).\n\nI really like the university: it's beautiful, the city surrounding is awesome, there are lots of cool people and professors around. It's not always peachy (winters can drag on, especially), and we're known for being a little socially awkward, but it's ultimately been a really cool experience.\n\nLong enough for ya? :)", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Something to note regarding admissions:\n\nI've heard a lot of speculation that the admissions rate went down just because we got a higher volume of applicants. That doesn't necessarily mean the same people wouldn't have gotten in.\n\nThat said, remember to have fun on your app! There's a reason they ask you such silly essay questions--I've never heard someone who got in have a dull moment in theirs.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Exactly. Now that we use the common app, students just have to check another box to apply.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "That's not exactly right. There's still a supplement to the common app that includes a few short essays and one long one--or at least there was when I applied.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Well. Yeah. But those kind of things, while \"uncommon\" could be easily copied from other apps. Especially by the type of people only applying to UChi because they can. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Sorry this is a late reply, but to clear this up, the application does have a writing requirement that can't easily be copied. Like, one of the prompts we had was just the quotation, \"And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now,\" and you had to figure something out. Past classes have had questions like, \"what do you hate about Wednesdays,\" things like that. That was the point of calling the application uncommon.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Yeah. I know. We had a prompt that was just the last line of a poem. So yeah, they are more uncommon. You're right. That said, the common app made it much easier to apply--hence increased applications and decreased acceptance. ", "role": "assistant" } ]