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[ { "content": "Is it true that there is a UChicago professor who does research on the campus squirrels, and who trains them to accept food from people?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "No.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it true that there is a UChicago professor who does research on the campus squirrels, and who trains them to accept food from people?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Yes", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it true that there is a UChicago professor who does research on the campus squirrels, and who trains them to accept food from people?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Maybe", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it true that there is a UChicago professor who does research on the campus squirrels, and who trains them to accept food from people?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Reply hazy, try again", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Is it true that there is a UChicago professor who does research on the campus squirrels, and who trains them to accept food from people?. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Nope to the first part of the question (as far as I know). Yep to the second part (as far as I know).", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "What is the best way to browse the old archives of The Chicago Maroon?. Especially memorable articles? The website's interface isn't exactly friendly for browsing through back issues.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "a computer.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Very clever.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "What is the best way to browse the old archives of The Chicago Maroon?. Especially memorable articles? The website's interface isn't exactly friendly for browsing through back issues.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Microfilm at the Reg. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Yep, though last i checked it stops around '91. I've gone though a good chunk of it.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Did you go through Special Collections? I think they have every issue that's been printed. One of my professors used SC to get some Maroon ads from the late 60s, so they should have articles from that far back at least.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Oh, I meant that the mircofilms went from 1902-1991. My understanding is that they just haven't gotten around to having the past 20 years done. SC does have paper copies, but they aren't available to be viewed: \"Note: Archives copies are not available to the public. A microfilm copy is available in Microforms\" (http://www.lib.uchicago.edu/e/scrc/collections/archives/pubstudent.html)", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "What is the best way to browse the old archives of The Chicago Maroon?. Especially memorable articles? The website's interface isn't exactly friendly for browsing through back issues.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The Maroon office in Ida always used to old paper copies. When I was there, they also kept PDFs on their fileserver, and for a while were posting the current week's PDF on the site. They seem to have stopped offering them, but I'm sure they still have the files. Maybe just ask what's available?", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "What is the best way to browse the old archives of The Chicago Maroon?. Especially memorable articles? The website's interface isn't exactly friendly for browsing through back issues.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "the question is, why would you want to?\n\nteamchicagoweekly!!", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Only at UChicago... (yay finals). ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Well done, OP.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Only at UChicago... (yay finals). ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Haha, this school sucks.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Barcraft -the trend sweeping the nation- has come to Chicago! Drinks, food and the company of other people who like playing video games at McFadden's Sunday, March 25th! How cool is that!. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Too bad McFadden's blows ass.\n\nNice username though.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "High school junior with a few questions.... Hey everyone. I'm a high school Junior, i'll be visiting uchicago next week, and I just had a few questions about the school for undergrad students.\n\n* What are my chances getting in? I have a 2380 SAT and an A/A- average at a very high level private school. I am politically active and involved in my school's science olympiad, but do not play a varsity sport. I consider myself fairly intellectual and love almost any sort of academic discussion, which is one of the things that has attracted me to UChicago. Is the intellectual atmosphere that I seem to read/hear about at Uchicago really there? Is it easy to find?\n\n* Is the intellectual atmosphere that I seem to read/hear about at Uchicago really there? Is it easy to find?\n\n* As a prospective econ/polisci major I have heard a little about the bias/stereotypes against econ majors at the school. I am more interested in economic theory, discussion, and application, and really don't want to get onto the ibanker track. Do you think there would be a bias against someone like me in the econ dept?\n\n* If there are any econ students on this subreddit, or people who have taken econ classes, how severe is the bias of the professors? I know the school is relatively right in the econ department, and I was wondering how much this effects the undergrad curriculum. I don't think I would mind the bias much if it isn't challenging to get both sides of an argument, but I'd love to hear what y'all have to say.\n\nThanks for everything in advance!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Next week?? during spring break?\n\n1.No idea if you'll get in, any odds-making would just be pedantic. It depends who you hang out with and what classes you take, but yes, it's incredibly intellectual.\n\n2. It's all about the courses you take. Some people are as boring as drying paint, but if you seek out professors and take challenging courses, you'll find that people are way smarter than you, and it's really rewarding.\n\n3. No, any stereotypes are useless, the school is too large for that to be the case. That said, you meet a lot of peopl who see econ as uchicagos business major, and those types are fucking awful. Why econ though? Economics is such an unreflective, boring epistemology of social life.\n\n4. Don't come here thinking you'll major in something. Just, don't. When/if you get here spend a lot of time looking through the course catalog and professor reviews, and then choose something that will challenge you. To think that there's some thing out there which you will learn from uchicago and then be the intellectually enlightened person who knows that thing is total bullshit.\n\nbest of luck!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Thanks for the input!\n\nI actually visited this week on monday. I made this post a week ago, but it got caught by the spam filter and I didn't notice.\n\nIn reply to 2: Even though I am somewhat of an estranged capitalist, I am still fascinated by the workings of the capitalist economy although I don't totally believe in it. I can understand why people would hate though.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Nothing to do with capitalism... The actual discipline of economics is unreflective.\n\nedit: unreflexive", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "High school junior with a few questions.... Hey everyone. I'm a high school Junior, i'll be visiting uchicago next week, and I just had a few questions about the school for undergrad students.\n\n* What are my chances getting in? I have a 2380 SAT and an A/A- average at a very high level private school. I am politically active and involved in my school's science olympiad, but do not play a varsity sport. I consider myself fairly intellectual and love almost any sort of academic discussion, which is one of the things that has attracted me to UChicago. Is the intellectual atmosphere that I seem to read/hear about at Uchicago really there? Is it easy to find?\n\n* Is the intellectual atmosphere that I seem to read/hear about at Uchicago really there? Is it easy to find?\n\n* As a prospective econ/polisci major I have heard a little about the bias/stereotypes against econ majors at the school. I am more interested in economic theory, discussion, and application, and really don't want to get onto the ibanker track. Do you think there would be a bias against someone like me in the econ dept?\n\n* If there are any econ students on this subreddit, or people who have taken econ classes, how severe is the bias of the professors? I know the school is relatively right in the econ department, and I was wondering how much this effects the undergrad curriculum. I don't think I would mind the bias much if it isn't challenging to get both sides of an argument, but I'd love to hear what y'all have to say.\n\nThanks for everything in advance!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I can't speak to your chances of getting in, because the admissions process really depends on a huge range of factors, your essay being a very large one. Make sure you put a lot of time and thought into your essay, as that is one of the most important parts of your overall application. But your SAT score and GPA seem to be in line with mine and other student's. \n\nAs far as the intellectual atmosphere, I have mixed feelings. Everyone on campus is obviously very intelligent, and for the most part, well-read. However, that does not mean that everyone here can or wants to launch into a deep discussion about Foucault at the drop of a hat. You will find the same shallow, superficial people here that you would find at any other university. But if you look for them, there are those who are genuine intellectuals, who thirst for and thrive on debate and reflection. It really depends on who you choose to surround yourself with.\n\nI'm not anywhere near a econ/polysci major, but from what I've heard from friends and peers, it is totally possible to pursue your academic interests in economic theory, rather than business or finance. While a lot of the people in econ/polysci are, to put it politely, douchey turds that just want to wear expensive suits and work at Goldman Sachs, there are many who are simply fascinated by how the economy works. Often these people minor in public policy in addition to econ or polysci (the course requirements overlap, which makes it easy to do this).\n\nIf you have any other questions, feel free to ask! And good luck with your application! ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Thanks for your response. \n\nI had somewhat assumed that the \"every student is intellectual\" deal was too good to be true. It does seem however, that there is a higher concentration at UofC than at some comparable institutions. \n\nI'm glad that it is possible to be in econ, but not on the ibanker/analyst track; I want to stay as far away from there as possible. \n\nContrary to what it said in the post, I actually visited on monday, and really loved it. UofC has been one of the few visits so far that has really excited me, and I will almost certainly be applying.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "High school junior with a few questions.... Hey everyone. I'm a high school Junior, i'll be visiting uchicago next week, and I just had a few questions about the school for undergrad students.\n\n* What are my chances getting in? I have a 2380 SAT and an A/A- average at a very high level private school. I am politically active and involved in my school's science olympiad, but do not play a varsity sport. I consider myself fairly intellectual and love almost any sort of academic discussion, which is one of the things that has attracted me to UChicago. Is the intellectual atmosphere that I seem to read/hear about at Uchicago really there? Is it easy to find?\n\n* Is the intellectual atmosphere that I seem to read/hear about at Uchicago really there? Is it easy to find?\n\n* As a prospective econ/polisci major I have heard a little about the bias/stereotypes against econ majors at the school. I am more interested in economic theory, discussion, and application, and really don't want to get onto the ibanker track. Do you think there would be a bias against someone like me in the econ dept?\n\n* If there are any econ students on this subreddit, or people who have taken econ classes, how severe is the bias of the professors? I know the school is relatively right in the econ department, and I was wondering how much this effects the undergrad curriculum. I don't think I would mind the bias much if it isn't challenging to get both sides of an argument, but I'd love to hear what y'all have to say.\n\nThanks for everything in advance!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "As others have said, I can't really say whether or not you'll get in, but I had scores similar to yours.\n\nThe intellectual atmosphere is definitely there--honestly, if you don't want to turn EVERYTHING brought up in the dining hall into a philosophical argument, some times it might drive you crazy! But like CheapandCheerful said, like any school it does depend on who you hang out with. The extremes are always there, but you should have no problem finding intellectual conversations when you want them, and talking about other things when you don't.\n\nAs far as econ major stereotypes, they are definitely there but I never heard of them being taken very seriously.\n\nFrom what you said, I would highly suggest checking out the Public Policy department. It was my major, so of course I'm biased, but it is a great place to find economic theory applied to social issues (with some poli sci and sociology thrown in for extra fun!). As a PBPL major, you can also chose sort of an \"econ-lite\" or \"econ-heavy\" tract. Personally I went with the former, since math and I tend to not get along so well, but there are definitely classes that are heavy on the economics with a focus on specific policy issues.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Have you graduated? If so what are you doing now. I'm interested in what opportunities there are after graduation for public policy/econ that aren't in ibanks.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Well, I graduated in 2010 but I'm probably not the best person to ask. I actually just got back from the Peace Corps less than a week ago and am starting to job search, so I can't say I've used my major yet!\n\n(I should mention I did NOT join the Peace Corps just because I couldn't find a job--I didn't even look for another job since I'd always wanted to do Peace Corps anyway)\n\nI do know a lot of PBPL majors go on to law school (which I am thinking of doing myself, but I want to work as a paralegal first to make sure!) or to get masters in public administration or similar fields. Others work for policy think tanks, consulting agencies or other research institutions, or in government.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How good is the arts program?. I'm a prospective high school student, and I've been wondering how the quality of the arts programs at UChicago stand up. Are the vocal, instrumental, and music theory/comp. programs worth going to Chicago to study?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "When I graduated in 09, the arts programs were a joke. They just started making a big push as I was graduating to build them up, and now I understand that several massive donations have gone into that. The new Logan Center for the Arts is part of that push, and so I imagine now would be a great time to study art at Chicago.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "They still suck", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How good is the arts program?. I'm a prospective high school student, and I've been wondering how the quality of the arts programs at UChicago stand up. Are the vocal, instrumental, and music theory/comp. programs worth going to Chicago to study?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I can't speak to the music/visual arts, but I can speak to the merits of University Theater. Over the last couple of years the program has expanded, but in such a way that it's still entirely student-run. What I mean by this is that the professional theater staff have gone out of their way to advise the students and to be accessible to them (e.g. holding workshops to learn about lighting and weekly roundtables for the student stage managers), but in no way do they step in to the production process unless it's serious (like spending $5000 when the budget for the show might be $750). Hope this helps.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How good is the arts program?. I'm a prospective high school student, and I've been wondering how the quality of the arts programs at UChicago stand up. Are the vocal, instrumental, and music theory/comp. programs worth going to Chicago to study?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Though I don't have personal experience, it's probably like anything else here: intensely theoretical. You'll write a lot about art history and aesthetics. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Romney to speak at I-House in 1 hour (12 pm 3/19). Not well-advertised, just got an email about it. Doors are already open. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "so how did it go?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "No moon base talk, no gay kisses breaking his rhythm. Econ talk, so, nothing exciting?\n \n\nI particularly appreciated his praise of Americans' construction of the national highway system and the Hoover dam while criticizing federal work programs and wondering aloud how we hadn't yet managed to build a pipeline from Alaska, but, judging from his standing ovations, I would guess I was in the minority. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "This is how I feel knowing that acceptance \nnotifications are released later today.. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Good luck! Hope to see you around campus next year.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "This is how I feel knowing that acceptance \nnotifications are released later today.. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "aaand they're up.\n\n", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Pros and cons. Just got accepted to northwestern and U Chicago. Waiting to hear back from Harvard, Yale, and Georgetown. What are some pros and cons for u Chicago i should consider?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You should be choosing your school based off your intended major and things important to you. Do you want to live near family? Do you intend to be involved in school activities/clubs/fraternaties/etc? If so, what are the quality of those? Are you paying for school out of pocket or will you have scholarships to cover the fees? If you're paying, can you afford it all or will you be taking out loans? If you have scholarships, what are the requirements? Do you need to get a job while you go to school?\n\nThere are a large number of considerations that are solely based on who you are and what you want. Are you going for the name on your diploma or quality of education? If it's the name, do you realize that only certain career paths care about where you graduated? Unless, of course, it is your parents decision and not yours then none of this really applies.\n\nSeriously, you need to provide more information. I could tell you that Chicago is an amazing city with tons of things to do. The quality of education at University of Chicago is awesome (in particular fields) and the campus is pretty impressive but none of that matters unless you care about those things.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Pros and cons. Just got accepted to northwestern and U Chicago. Waiting to hear back from Harvard, Yale, and Georgetown. What are some pros and cons for u Chicago i should consider?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Just go to Northwestern.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Pros and cons. Just got accepted to northwestern and U Chicago. Waiting to hear back from Harvard, Yale, and Georgetown. What are some pros and cons for u Chicago i should consider?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You need to visit. The differences in student culture are key but you really need to spend some time amongst the students to be able to tell.\n\nFor me, the student culture of learning and interest at UofC was the best environment I've ever been in. But if it doesn't work for everyone. Some people who chose it just because it was high ranked are miserable. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Pros and cons. Just got accepted to northwestern and U Chicago. Waiting to hear back from Harvard, Yale, and Georgetown. What are some pros and cons for u Chicago i should consider?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "You know what's really annoying? Turning this subreddit into college confidential and asking us to do your job for you.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Pros and cons. Just got accepted to northwestern and U Chicago. Waiting to hear back from Harvard, Yale, and Georgetown. What are some pros and cons for u Chicago i should consider?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Hey, I know this is a little tangential but can you tell me a little bit about your application. I'm applying to schools next year and want to apply to UC but I literally have no idea where I would stand. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I heard a guy mailed in a stapler for his essay and they admitted him.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "There really won't be any classes you can visit at that point in the day, but there are a ton of museums you could check out (the Smart Museum, Oriental Institute, MSI is a little bit farther away). It'd also be a great chance to look at Harper Library, go to Ratner, go into the Regenstein/Mansueto, and basically see the interiors of all the places you only see from the exterior on a tour! Also, there will be a ton of admissions counselors and current students available to chat with that day (I'm going to be working the event all day), so feel free to start talking with anyone and ask for their personal recommendations!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Yeah I'm a bit of a museum nerd so I've thoroughly exhausted MSI, but will definitely check out Smart Museum and the Oriental Institute. Thanks for the advice on just asking people, I might end up talking to you!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Quite possibly! And then maybe we could make a redditor in the wild comic! =P And both of those museums are free! In all seriousness, though, you'll probably enjoy your day even more since you won't feel rushed through some things. See something interesting on a tour or as you pass by on your way to an event? Or hear about something interesting! You can just visit later! But yeah, definitely definitely definitely talk to currently students and admissions counselors!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Thanks for the great advice! Oh and if you do happen to see me, I will be wearing red shoes (trust me you'll know).", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "There really won't be any classes you can visit at that point in the day, but there are a ton of museums you could check out (the Smart Museum, Oriental Institute, MSI is a little bit farther away). It'd also be a great chance to look at Harper Library, go to Ratner, go into the Regenstein/Mansueto, and basically see the interiors of all the places you only see from the exterior on a tour! Also, there will be a ton of admissions counselors and current students available to chat with that day (I'm going to be working the event all day), so feel free to start talking with anyone and ask for their personal recommendations!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Yeah I'm a bit of a museum nerd so I've thoroughly exhausted MSI, but will definitely check out Smart Museum and the Oriental Institute. Thanks for the advice on just asking people, I might end up talking to you!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The Oriental Institute is AWESOME.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "See the new arts center (Logan). It's south of the Midway.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Will do. Thanks.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Go to Harper Memorial Commons and look at the lighting in the evening. It's stunning, and it was my favorite picture as a prospie. I suggest you just walk around campus and go into buildings and get a feel for the place. Definitely go to Logan. Oh! Take a picture of you almost stepping on the seal in Reynold's Club.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Don't step on the seal, however. I laughed at the myth. I stomped. It took me an extra year to graduate...", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Don't miss the Seminary Co-op bookstore. It's at the corner of University and 58th. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Not for long... :(", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "why?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The building it's in now, the Div School building. Is being appropriated as the Milton Friedman institute for Economics. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Don't miss the Seminary Co-op bookstore. It's at the corner of University and 58th. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Just saw it. Its what ultimately makes me want to go to UofC.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "That's great. It's such a wonderful little place. Too bad it's being moved. Hope you enjoyed your visit. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Drink. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "and hit on girls. chances are they will say yes if you just ask.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I heard girls in UChicago are socially awkward, nerdy, and shy. One of the college rating website gave one of the lowest scores to girls in UChicago. Any truth to that?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "uh, there are both. \n\nseriously, this is a college. it has a larger portion of students (compared to a state school) that would qualify as \"socially less capable\" however that does not mean its a rule of admittance. There are plenty of people, both guys a girls, who do not fit into that category, go out, have fun, and function in society very well, as well as studying like insane. \n\nexaggeration is exaggerated. also why would you even look at a schools ranking for \"how good lookinggirls are\"? if thats your condition of choice, you should try to re-evaluate your priorities in life.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Yes, but why are you mad, though? For a guy giving \"and hit on girls\" as advice, you must've figured out your priorities in life when you weren't busy judging people's whimsical attentions.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "not getting mad. i just think it was kind of a silly question. sorry it was a long day at work when i typed that.\n\nthe former was given as an advice to indicate that majority of girls like attention, especially in a school where large amount of guys do not know how to handle that. that had nothing to do with them being shy or a bit awkward. if anything, the shy ones are the most interesting ones once you get to know them", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Drink. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "and hit on girls. chances are they will say yes if you just ask.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "If I ask what? For their number?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Oh dear", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Drink. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "and hit on girls. chances are they will say yes if you just ask.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "If I ask what? For their number?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "well, it would seem you belong here.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "The Medici for food, IMO. Also, spend some quality time laying in the quad watching students. Will give you an idea of who goes here.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Ill be sure to bring my binoculars", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Get the fruit tart sf the medici bakery. If its the weekend get the almond croissant. Expensive but worth every penny!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Oh my god it was sooo good! Also got a nice hot chocolate on the cold day.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "I'm a high schooler coming to the open house this friday. What is there to do outside the schedule?. Because I won't have a ride I'll have to stay for a couple extra hours after the open house ends. What can I visit/do so as to not be bored to death? If it helps I'm interested in math but I'll really go for anything.\n\nEdit:thanks everyone for the great suggestions. Now I really want to go to u of c!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Try to find the cafes on campus. They are hidden in various buildings. My favorite is Hallowed Grounds, for the pool and IBC cream sodas, and it's open late! It's upstairs in the Reynolds club. If you have some friends with you, play some pool, if not, it's a nice place to relax. But the cafes are awesome and each has a really cool atmosphere. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Jimmy's made it on the Chicagoist list of 26 non-douchey Chicago bars. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Dank and disgusting.... yes.\n\nBut definitely not douchey.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Jimmy's made it on the Chicagoist list of 26 non-douchey Chicago bars. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Looked at that list just to make sure that the Brehon Pub was on it. Left satisfied.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Jimmy's made it on the Chicagoist list of 26 non-douchey Chicago bars. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I once saw a guy watching porn there on the WiFi. It was 2 in the afternoon.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Jimmy's made it on the Chicagoist list of 26 non-douchey Chicago bars. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Hell yeah, man. Love Jimmy's. The bartenders are awesome, and the place is just, perfect. Good cheap stiff drinks, no bullshit, and no assholes. It's a Mecca of liver destruction.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Singles are nice. When I was a first year, I don't think first years ever got singles. Housing has changed, however. \n\nIf your first choice is Max P, you'll almost certainly get it. If I were you, I would consider - you don't have to do it, but just consider - looking into one of the other dorms. A place like Snell or Hitchcock, for instance, has a lot more personality, but not everybody wants personality, and that's okay. Max P, in some ways, feels like a hotel, IMO, but I never lived there, so take it with a grain of salt.\n\nThe aid letters aren't really negotiable. For instance, my father got laid off in June before my first year and took several months to find a job, I asked them if they would change things, and they said they wouldn't, but the next year's aid, of course, would be better, since the income would have been less. Well, gee. Maybe things have changed.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I would go for one of the smaller dorms. South Campus was after my time, but most people I spoke to who came out of Max P didn't have a great experience in their dorm. Places like S&H, Breckinridge, Blackstone, and even B-J create a better sense of community. \n\nYou are always rolling the dice with doubles. I stuck with my roommate for two years, and he will be in my wedding party. Others tell semi-horror stories of unreasonable roomies. \n\nAs for financial aid, it is always negotiable, but not guaranteed to increase. Arrange a phone call. They are real people who's job it is to find a way for you to attend.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you have alternative offers with better aid packages, bring those along as well. At the least, it can't hurt, and I know at least one person who argued her way into more aid that way.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I would go for one of the smaller dorms. South Campus was after my time, but most people I spoke to who came out of Max P didn't have a great experience in their dorm. Places like S&H, Breckinridge, Blackstone, and even B-J create a better sense of community. \n\nYou are always rolling the dice with doubles. I stuck with my roommate for two years, and he will be in my wedding party. Others tell semi-horror stories of unreasonable roomies. \n\nAs for financial aid, it is always negotiable, but not guaranteed to increase. Arrange a phone call. They are real people who's job it is to find a way for you to attend.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I agree on the dorms point. Smaller is better, especially if you're concerned with atmosphere. I was in Max first year, and although I really liked my RH's and some of my housemates, my experience in Blackstone the next year was way better. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Just as a fair warning. With doubles it is hit and miss. You could get a best friend, you could get someone who you can't stand/can't stand you, or you could get someone who is insane. The last is a more significant risk at this school. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I would recommend not living in Stony, that is a terrible walk during the winter time with the wind coming off the lake. Remember though that even if you do receive a double and don't like your roommate you can always request a room change with relatively little hassle. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Seconded. I stayed at Stony second year, and it's a super quiet place, really not somewhere you want to be as a first-year when you're trying to make friends. Also, a bunch of the rooms are triangle-shaped, making for really strange furniture arrangements.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Insofar as housing is concerned, it sounds like you'd like BJ (Burton-Judson Courts) a lot. I'm a first year living in BJ right now, and, even though it was my third pick on my housing application (after Snitchcock and Max), I know that the housing office put me in the perfect place. I wouldn't be happier anywhere else on campus. We've got a neo-gothic building with house cultures to beat the band. Some people might call BJ's houses or the dorm as a whole \"insular,\" but I hang out with friends of mine in South and other dorms all of the time. Even though it's across the Midway, you can get to any class on the quad in 5-10 minutes if you walk with enough purpose.\n\nCongratulations on your acceptance, and I'm sure that you'll love it here!", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I converted from Breck to Blackstone, and I couldn't be happier. I really recommend a smaller dorm. You'll know everyone, and it doesn't feel like a hotel like the bigger dorms do. Blackstone has all the cool things about Breck that I like-- small, quirky, not too too far from campus (actually closer than breck), without the conservative culture that single sex floors gives breck. I wouldn't recommend breck to anyone unless you're religious or like playing duck duck goose on Friday nights. Stony is really too far from campus. Max P feels very impersonal, and it's generally a more fratty, jock kind of crowd who lives there. And Bartlett is truly terrible food, and you'd eat there all the time living in Max. If you're really a sucker for convenience, then I'd go BJ or South because the dining hall is very good, and it's close to campus. However, I felt like I would be lost in the shuffle living there.\n\nAs far as financial aid goes, they even have a minimum that everyone has to pay, no matter the financial situation. You can be homeless, and you still have to pay 2200/year. No negotiation. They're pretty cold about it. Though they claim that they don't expect loans if you make under 60k/year, this just isn't true given the nature of their aid packages. I'm at the max financial aid, and I still take out loans every year. It's worth it to me, but if you have other, better offers on the table, you might consider them. UChicago financial aid has only gotten worse for me over the years. Not horrible, but I definitely have to work several jobs to keep up. And they don't care that they are making it hard on you-- in fact, that's why the minimum expected contribution is there, just to make it difficult.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Blackstone!", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I converted from Breck to Blackstone, and I couldn't be happier. I really recommend a smaller dorm. You'll know everyone, and it doesn't feel like a hotel like the bigger dorms do. Blackstone has all the cool things about Breck that I like-- small, quirky, not too too far from campus (actually closer than breck), without the conservative culture that single sex floors gives breck. I wouldn't recommend breck to anyone unless you're religious or like playing duck duck goose on Friday nights. Stony is really too far from campus. Max P feels very impersonal, and it's generally a more fratty, jock kind of crowd who lives there. And Bartlett is truly terrible food, and you'd eat there all the time living in Max. If you're really a sucker for convenience, then I'd go BJ or South because the dining hall is very good, and it's close to campus. However, I felt like I would be lost in the shuffle living there.\n\nAs far as financial aid goes, they even have a minimum that everyone has to pay, no matter the financial situation. You can be homeless, and you still have to pay 2200/year. No negotiation. They're pretty cold about it. Though they claim that they don't expect loans if you make under 60k/year, this just isn't true given the nature of their aid packages. I'm at the max financial aid, and I still take out loans every year. It's worth it to me, but if you have other, better offers on the table, you might consider them. UChicago financial aid has only gotten worse for me over the years. Not horrible, but I definitely have to work several jobs to keep up. And they don't care that they are making it hard on you-- in fact, that's why the minimum expected contribution is there, just to make it difficult.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Thanks for the insight. Wouldn't I be still be eating at Bartlett if I were at Blackstone? I thought they shared Bartett DC?\n\nAlso, what is financial aid like for grad students? I know UC has a huge research budget, does that mean they fund grads well?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Blackstone people tend to eat at other dining halls. If you're already walking a ways to get to a dining hall, why not go an extra three blocks for south? My point is that Max P people tend to stay in the close campus bubble because it's so easy for them to do so. Blackstone is cool in the sense that you walk past the 57th street shops/restaurants on the way to campus, and there's more opportunity to stop and enjoy.\n\nDepends on the program. most grad student spaces in the sciences come with a fellowship/full tuition + stipend. humanities is an entirely different deal. You get a stipend and free tuition most of the time, mostly not based on financial need. All of this is done by department-- the better you application, the better your financial package most of the time. There are departmental standards and limits, of course. it's not through a central office like undergrad financial aid is. The $ for grad student stipends often come from lab funds, which are \"research funds.\"", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Wow, that's really encouraging, as I'm planning on getting at least a Master's in physics. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "No one is going to fund a masters in physics. You'll find plenty of cash for a Ph.D., but no one is going to fund a masters. Masters degrees are generally used as consolation prizes for those who drop out of Ph.D. programs, or for those who aren't prepared to do the full Ph.D. program-- they complete the masters, then apply to Ph.D. programs (but this masters won't be funded like that of a Ph.D. program). My S.O. is looking into a masters in Physical Sciences (there's no terminal degree masters in physics here), and he'd have to pay tuition for it.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I converted from Breck to Blackstone, and I couldn't be happier. I really recommend a smaller dorm. You'll know everyone, and it doesn't feel like a hotel like the bigger dorms do. Blackstone has all the cool things about Breck that I like-- small, quirky, not too too far from campus (actually closer than breck), without the conservative culture that single sex floors gives breck. I wouldn't recommend breck to anyone unless you're religious or like playing duck duck goose on Friday nights. Stony is really too far from campus. Max P feels very impersonal, and it's generally a more fratty, jock kind of crowd who lives there. And Bartlett is truly terrible food, and you'd eat there all the time living in Max. If you're really a sucker for convenience, then I'd go BJ or South because the dining hall is very good, and it's close to campus. However, I felt like I would be lost in the shuffle living there.\n\nAs far as financial aid goes, they even have a minimum that everyone has to pay, no matter the financial situation. You can be homeless, and you still have to pay 2200/year. No negotiation. They're pretty cold about it. Though they claim that they don't expect loans if you make under 60k/year, this just isn't true given the nature of their aid packages. I'm at the max financial aid, and I still take out loans every year. It's worth it to me, but if you have other, better offers on the table, you might consider them. UChicago financial aid has only gotten worse for me over the years. Not horrible, but I definitely have to work several jobs to keep up. And they don't care that they are making it hard on you-- in fact, that's why the minimum expected contribution is there, just to make it difficult.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Thanks for the insight. Wouldn't I be still be eating at Bartlett if I were at Blackstone? I thought they shared Bartett DC?\n\nAlso, what is financial aid like for grad students? I know UC has a huge research budget, does that mean they fund grads well?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "If you're not getting paid to get your PhD, don't go. That's how PhD programs work. Legit programs don't admit you unless they're waiving your tuition and giving you a stipend. Master's programs are typically self-pay with a few exceptions, as are professional degrees.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I never knew that. I understand people won't take you seriously in physics without at least a Master's, and since that's apparently not the way to go, Ph.D. looks like where I'm headed. \n\nThank you (and IBCreepin) for the answers.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I converted from Breck to Blackstone, and I couldn't be happier. I really recommend a smaller dorm. You'll know everyone, and it doesn't feel like a hotel like the bigger dorms do. Blackstone has all the cool things about Breck that I like-- small, quirky, not too too far from campus (actually closer than breck), without the conservative culture that single sex floors gives breck. I wouldn't recommend breck to anyone unless you're religious or like playing duck duck goose on Friday nights. Stony is really too far from campus. Max P feels very impersonal, and it's generally a more fratty, jock kind of crowd who lives there. And Bartlett is truly terrible food, and you'd eat there all the time living in Max. If you're really a sucker for convenience, then I'd go BJ or South because the dining hall is very good, and it's close to campus. However, I felt like I would be lost in the shuffle living there.\n\nAs far as financial aid goes, they even have a minimum that everyone has to pay, no matter the financial situation. You can be homeless, and you still have to pay 2200/year. No negotiation. They're pretty cold about it. Though they claim that they don't expect loans if you make under 60k/year, this just isn't true given the nature of their aid packages. I'm at the max financial aid, and I still take out loans every year. It's worth it to me, but if you have other, better offers on the table, you might consider them. UChicago financial aid has only gotten worse for me over the years. Not horrible, but I definitely have to work several jobs to keep up. And they don't care that they are making it hard on you-- in fact, that's why the minimum expected contribution is there, just to make it difficult.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "How is South versus Max P? Both of them seem to give off similar vibes to me. I have Snitchcock down for my 1st since I'm looking to major in chem (LOCATION SO CONVENIENT), but I'd like a good backup (SIR'd this past week).\n\ntl;dr South & Max P seem similar to me, but idk why outside of architecture. Can anyone help give me a better feel for them?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I'm pretty much as clueless as you, but from the other responses I gather Max P has more of the \"popular jock\" vibe. That is, about as 'jock' as one can be at UChicago. ha. South is even newer than Max, and almost as close to everything.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I converted from Breck to Blackstone, and I couldn't be happier. I really recommend a smaller dorm. You'll know everyone, and it doesn't feel like a hotel like the bigger dorms do. Blackstone has all the cool things about Breck that I like-- small, quirky, not too too far from campus (actually closer than breck), without the conservative culture that single sex floors gives breck. I wouldn't recommend breck to anyone unless you're religious or like playing duck duck goose on Friday nights. Stony is really too far from campus. Max P feels very impersonal, and it's generally a more fratty, jock kind of crowd who lives there. And Bartlett is truly terrible food, and you'd eat there all the time living in Max. If you're really a sucker for convenience, then I'd go BJ or South because the dining hall is very good, and it's close to campus. However, I felt like I would be lost in the shuffle living there.\n\nAs far as financial aid goes, they even have a minimum that everyone has to pay, no matter the financial situation. You can be homeless, and you still have to pay 2200/year. No negotiation. They're pretty cold about it. Though they claim that they don't expect loans if you make under 60k/year, this just isn't true given the nature of their aid packages. I'm at the max financial aid, and I still take out loans every year. It's worth it to me, but if you have other, better offers on the table, you might consider them. UChicago financial aid has only gotten worse for me over the years. Not horrible, but I definitely have to work several jobs to keep up. And they don't care that they are making it hard on you-- in fact, that's why the minimum expected contribution is there, just to make it difficult.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "How is South versus Max P? Both of them seem to give off similar vibes to me. I have Snitchcock down for my 1st since I'm looking to major in chem (LOCATION SO CONVENIENT), but I'd like a good backup (SIR'd this past week).\n\ntl;dr South & Max P seem similar to me, but idk why outside of architecture. Can anyone help give me a better feel for them?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "South has more people who are there just for convenience... hard to explain, but Max P has a very distinct culture, whereas South seems to be more of a catch-all. Both are relatively immature-- lots of high school style drama in houses.It's not really going to make much difference where you end up, and you can always change rooms.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I see. I also hear Max P has a lot of jocks (being close to Ratner and Stagg and all).\n\nUh oh. That kind of worries me. Where should I go if I want more mature people in my house? I hear Snitchcock is also kinda quirky, and the other dorms are more for upperclassmen. I do want somewhere relatively close to the main campus though... I don't know where to go! D:", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I converted from Breck to Blackstone, and I couldn't be happier. I really recommend a smaller dorm. You'll know everyone, and it doesn't feel like a hotel like the bigger dorms do. Blackstone has all the cool things about Breck that I like-- small, quirky, not too too far from campus (actually closer than breck), without the conservative culture that single sex floors gives breck. I wouldn't recommend breck to anyone unless you're religious or like playing duck duck goose on Friday nights. Stony is really too far from campus. Max P feels very impersonal, and it's generally a more fratty, jock kind of crowd who lives there. And Bartlett is truly terrible food, and you'd eat there all the time living in Max. If you're really a sucker for convenience, then I'd go BJ or South because the dining hall is very good, and it's close to campus. However, I felt like I would be lost in the shuffle living there.\n\nAs far as financial aid goes, they even have a minimum that everyone has to pay, no matter the financial situation. You can be homeless, and you still have to pay 2200/year. No negotiation. They're pretty cold about it. Though they claim that they don't expect loans if you make under 60k/year, this just isn't true given the nature of their aid packages. I'm at the max financial aid, and I still take out loans every year. It's worth it to me, but if you have other, better offers on the table, you might consider them. UChicago financial aid has only gotten worse for me over the years. Not horrible, but I definitely have to work several jobs to keep up. And they don't care that they are making it hard on you-- in fact, that's why the minimum expected contribution is there, just to make it difficult.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "How is South versus Max P? Both of them seem to give off similar vibes to me. I have Snitchcock down for my 1st since I'm looking to major in chem (LOCATION SO CONVENIENT), but I'd like a good backup (SIR'd this past week).\n\ntl;dr South & Max P seem similar to me, but idk why outside of architecture. Can anyone help give me a better feel for them?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "one of the big differences between south and max p is the suites in max p. max has suites, so instead of just living with a roommate, you will also be living with suite-mates. also, private bathrooms basically, so if you're not into that whole communal bathroom thing, max p is a good choice.\n\nyou'll get a whole range of people in max p and south. while you may not become best friends with all of them, but you can kinda find a tight knit group you can call your own in both.\n\nmax does have a jock-feel, but that is because it is right next to both henry crown and ratner, the two gyms on campus. many people choose max p because of the close proximity to the gym. if your most important thing is convenience, i'd put max. right next to the reg and very close to the quad. if you want to be surrounded by a very varied group of people, south campus is pretty good for that just because the huge sample size. as a southie, i'd probably want you to live in south, but again, you'll love where you live, so don't worry too much about it.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Oh really? How large are the suites?\n\nI guess I'm trying to decide between Max P and South at this point. It sounds like Max is better for the convenience that I want, but the people are cooler at South.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "the suite is comprised typically of two rooms conjoined by a little entry way which leads to a shower and a toilet and of course the outside. the rooms are smaller than the doubles in south, but the private bathroom may be a dealbreaker for some.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Huh, interesting. So the rooms are doubles hooked to another double, basically?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "essentially yes. the rooms are just a little smaller.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Ah, I see. Thanks, that definitely helped!", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I converted from Breck to Blackstone, and I couldn't be happier. I really recommend a smaller dorm. You'll know everyone, and it doesn't feel like a hotel like the bigger dorms do. Blackstone has all the cool things about Breck that I like-- small, quirky, not too too far from campus (actually closer than breck), without the conservative culture that single sex floors gives breck. I wouldn't recommend breck to anyone unless you're religious or like playing duck duck goose on Friday nights. Stony is really too far from campus. Max P feels very impersonal, and it's generally a more fratty, jock kind of crowd who lives there. And Bartlett is truly terrible food, and you'd eat there all the time living in Max. If you're really a sucker for convenience, then I'd go BJ or South because the dining hall is very good, and it's close to campus. However, I felt like I would be lost in the shuffle living there.\n\nAs far as financial aid goes, they even have a minimum that everyone has to pay, no matter the financial situation. You can be homeless, and you still have to pay 2200/year. No negotiation. They're pretty cold about it. Though they claim that they don't expect loans if you make under 60k/year, this just isn't true given the nature of their aid packages. I'm at the max financial aid, and I still take out loans every year. It's worth it to me, but if you have other, better offers on the table, you might consider them. UChicago financial aid has only gotten worse for me over the years. Not horrible, but I definitely have to work several jobs to keep up. And they don't care that they are making it hard on you-- in fact, that's why the minimum expected contribution is there, just to make it difficult.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Oh, another question (how full I am of them today!): Should I bother bringing a stereo and loudspeakers? How much (if at all) is loud music tolerated in the dorms?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Depends on where you live. Some of the older dorms have thick walls, while places like South and Max have kinda papery ones to cut costs. I brought a 30W system and no one cared.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "**Comfort**: Snell-Hitchcock, we have armchairs and (nonworking) fireplaces!\n\n**Convenience**: OMG Snell-Hitchcock. It's *on the quad*. It takes me 2 minutes to get to my early morning-classes.\n\n**Cool architecture**: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b4/Snell_Hitchcock1.JPG\n\n**Good atmoshpere**: can probably vary, but I think we're pretty cool :) Also extreme scav teamwork and bonding.\n\n**Dining**: Okay, so Bartlett sucks balls. Best dining is either Pierce or South.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Okay, so I need to know--which of my house-mates is actually the Slayer?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It isn't safe for humanity for me to say...", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "oh, just message me...\n\n*I must add you to my collection*", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Lulz", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "**Comfort**: Snell-Hitchcock, we have armchairs and (nonworking) fireplaces!\n\n**Convenience**: OMG Snell-Hitchcock. It's *on the quad*. It takes me 2 minutes to get to my early morning-classes.\n\n**Cool architecture**: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b4/Snell_Hitchcock1.JPG\n\n**Good atmoshpere**: can probably vary, but I think we're pretty cool :) Also extreme scav teamwork and bonding.\n\n**Dining**: Okay, so Bartlett sucks balls. Best dining is either Pierce or South.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I hear that first-years usually get assigned to doubles on single-sex floors. The single-sex floors do not appeal to me, and even less so since I read [IBCreepin's account](http://www.reddit.com/r/uchicago/comments/rxnxo/questions_about_from_an_incoming_freshman/c49jltp). Can you comment on this? \n\nAlso, am I right that Snell has mostly singles while Hitchcock is all doubles?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Because of the layout of Hitchcock, I wouldn't worry about the single-sex floors. \n\nBasically, instead of the normal sprawling college dorm floors, Hitchcock is built in a European 'landing' style. The freshman rooms are laid out with 4 doubles on a floor, connected to one of three freshman 'sections' or central staircases. So instead of having to walk to the end of the hall and then go up a floor to find someone of another sex, you literally step out, walk two steps up a staircase, and voila. Easy peasy.\n\nPlus, the sections really bond strongly because you have to walk past each other so often going up and down the stairs. Section loyalty and identity is pretty big, even among alumni.\n\nRight about Snell, although Hitchcock is about half singles and half doubles.\n\nFeel free to ask more q's or pm me.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "How much do you know about the communities in BJ, Blackstone and Broadview? How do they compare to S/H?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The Broadview houses hang out with themselves a lot; they'll all go to parties together and stuff like that.\n\nI haven't been to all the BJ houses, but from the ones I have friends in (mostly Dodd-Mead and Salisbury) it's pretty solid. I'd say that BJ is a little bit more isolating than Hitchcock, because they're mostly singles, but that's a matter of taste.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "**Comfort**: Snell-Hitchcock, we have armchairs and (nonworking) fireplaces!\n\n**Convenience**: OMG Snell-Hitchcock. It's *on the quad*. It takes me 2 minutes to get to my early morning-classes.\n\n**Cool architecture**: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b4/Snell_Hitchcock1.JPG\n\n**Good atmoshpere**: can probably vary, but I think we're pretty cool :) Also extreme scav teamwork and bonding.\n\n**Dining**: Okay, so Bartlett sucks balls. Best dining is either Pierce or South.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I hear that first-years usually get assigned to doubles on single-sex floors. The single-sex floors do not appeal to me, and even less so since I read [IBCreepin's account](http://www.reddit.com/r/uchicago/comments/rxnxo/questions_about_from_an_incoming_freshman/c49jltp). Can you comment on this? \n\nAlso, am I right that Snell has mostly singles while Hitchcock is all doubles?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Because of the layout of Hitchcock, I wouldn't worry about the single-sex floors. \n\nBasically, instead of the normal sprawling college dorm floors, Hitchcock is built in a European 'landing' style. The freshman rooms are laid out with 4 doubles on a floor, connected to one of three freshman 'sections' or central staircases. So instead of having to walk to the end of the hall and then go up a floor to find someone of another sex, you literally step out, walk two steps up a staircase, and voila. Easy peasy.\n\nPlus, the sections really bond strongly because you have to walk past each other so often going up and down the stairs. Section loyalty and identity is pretty big, even among alumni.\n\nRight about Snell, although Hitchcock is about half singles and half doubles.\n\nFeel free to ask more q's or pm me.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "How much do you know about the communities in BJ, Blackstone and Broadview? How do they compare to S/H?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I've lived in both Snitch and BJ. My BJ house was a lot less nerdy than Snitch, but was fairly close. As ocamlmycaml said, BJ is fairly isolating; a lot of people don't know people from the other BJ houses. In Snitch, you'll probably know/be friends with Snellians if you're in Hitch and vice versa. BJ is also a little more worn down than snitch... The radiators are loud as hell in the winter. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "**Comfort**: Snell-Hitchcock, we have armchairs and (nonworking) fireplaces!\n\n**Convenience**: OMG Snell-Hitchcock. It's *on the quad*. It takes me 2 minutes to get to my early morning-classes.\n\n**Cool architecture**: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b4/Snell_Hitchcock1.JPG\n\n**Good atmoshpere**: can probably vary, but I think we're pretty cool :) Also extreme scav teamwork and bonding.\n\n**Dining**: Okay, so Bartlett sucks balls. Best dining is either Pierce or South.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I hear that first-years usually get assigned to doubles on single-sex floors. The single-sex floors do not appeal to me, and even less so since I read [IBCreepin's account](http://www.reddit.com/r/uchicago/comments/rxnxo/questions_about_from_an_incoming_freshman/c49jltp). Can you comment on this? \n\nAlso, am I right that Snell has mostly singles while Hitchcock is all doubles?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Because of the layout of Hitchcock, I wouldn't worry about the single-sex floors. \n\nBasically, instead of the normal sprawling college dorm floors, Hitchcock is built in a European 'landing' style. The freshman rooms are laid out with 4 doubles on a floor, connected to one of three freshman 'sections' or central staircases. So instead of having to walk to the end of the hall and then go up a floor to find someone of another sex, you literally step out, walk two steps up a staircase, and voila. Easy peasy.\n\nPlus, the sections really bond strongly because you have to walk past each other so often going up and down the stairs. Section loyalty and identity is pretty big, even among alumni.\n\nRight about Snell, although Hitchcock is about half singles and half doubles.\n\nFeel free to ask more q's or pm me.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "How much do you know about the communities in BJ, Blackstone and Broadview? How do they compare to S/H?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I was in Blackstone my first year (last year). It's wonderful having your own room, and only sharing a bathroom with one person. The RH is great, and it's in a nice part of the neighborhood. It is, however, a ten minute (less if you're a fast walker) walk to campus, which for me was fine. It's a bit quieter than the other dorms, which is great for studying, but it just means that if you want sweet parties, you have to throw them yourself :)", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "**Comfort**: Snell-Hitchcock, we have armchairs and (nonworking) fireplaces!\n\n**Convenience**: OMG Snell-Hitchcock. It's *on the quad*. It takes me 2 minutes to get to my early morning-classes.\n\n**Cool architecture**: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b4/Snell_Hitchcock1.JPG\n\n**Good atmoshpere**: can probably vary, but I think we're pretty cool :) Also extreme scav teamwork and bonding.\n\n**Dining**: Okay, so Bartlett sucks balls. Best dining is either Pierce or South.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I hear that first-years usually get assigned to doubles on single-sex floors. The single-sex floors do not appeal to me, and even less so since I read [IBCreepin's account](http://www.reddit.com/r/uchicago/comments/rxnxo/questions_about_from_an_incoming_freshman/c49jltp). Can you comment on this? \n\nAlso, am I right that Snell has mostly singles while Hitchcock is all doubles?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "and don't live in Snell. They're lame xD.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "**Comfort**: Snell-Hitchcock, we have armchairs and (nonworking) fireplaces!\n\n**Convenience**: OMG Snell-Hitchcock. It's *on the quad*. It takes me 2 minutes to get to my early morning-classes.\n\n**Cool architecture**: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b4/Snell_Hitchcock1.JPG\n\n**Good atmoshpere**: can probably vary, but I think we're pretty cool :) Also extreme scav teamwork and bonding.\n\n**Dining**: Okay, so Bartlett sucks balls. Best dining is either Pierce or South.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I hear that first-years usually get assigned to doubles on single-sex floors. The single-sex floors do not appeal to me, and even less so since I read [IBCreepin's account](http://www.reddit.com/r/uchicago/comments/rxnxo/questions_about_from_an_incoming_freshman/c49jltp). Can you comment on this? \n\nAlso, am I right that Snell has mostly singles while Hitchcock is all doubles?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I was very worried about the single-sex floors too, but was happily surprised at the hitchcock layout. Typically in dorms, a lot of socialization happens within each floor. In Snell-Hitchcock however, that kind of socialization happens more within sections. It's sort of difficult to describe and I can't say I really understood until I got here... but basically there are are 3 \"freshman\" sections, with 4 rooms on every floor. Our rooms are literally surrounding a small staircase (unlike in a bigger dorm where you have to walk through a hallway to get to a staircase) and that staircase goes directly through the boys floor beneath us. I mean \"small\" in that we can hear if people are talking in the hall or leaving/entering their rooms on the floor below us. We have to walk through the center of their 4 rooms in order to go out and come back to our rooms. Basically, there isn't separation, and there's always a ton of socialization. Certainly no \"conservative attitude\" as described in the other post. The best way that I can really put it is that other people's floors are like our sections. It would be quite a challenge to NOT get to know everyone in your section, and floors are basically obsolete.\n\nI'm not 100% on this, but I don't think Snell actually has single-sex floors. They are, however, all singles. Hitchcock for the most part has all doubles, with exceptions in the 2nd year/upperclassmen sections. This year a first year actually had a single too, but that isn't common.\n", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I stayed at Stony and enjoyed it quite a bit, but it's not for everyone.\n\n* I thought the rooms were nice and a pretty decent size. I enjoy cooking and used the kitchen quite a bit.\n* I had some great roommates, but I got lucky. I actually transferred from Tulane and had an absolutely terrible roommate. These things tend to be a crapshoot.\n* You're right next to the lake. I would often jog or ride my bike along the path (weather permitting).\n* It's very quiet and most people keep to themselves. Personally, I loved this. \n* It's kinda far from the rest of the campus. If you're not used to walking in the cold, then this could suck.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Questions about from an incoming freshman. I was so excited to get my acceptance letter from UChicago, and I've decided to attend! I've been mulling over a few things, particularly housing. \n\nThe main things I'm wish for, wherever I end up, are comfort and convenience, cool architecture, and a good atmosphere (I'm sure everywhere qualifies in varying degrees in these respects!). Right now I'm thinking my first choice will be Max P., then Stony or SC, then one of the older halls like S/H or Blackstone. \n\nAlso, what's your guys' take on singles vs. doubles? I see having a roommate as a benefit, but others say I should try and get a single if possible.\n\nWhich of the dining commons do you think is the \"best\"?\n\nAlso, financial aid question: I got my aid letter, and I was a little surprised at how much UC thought my family could pay. I do know you guys have a different way of assessing need than most other schools. I won't mention figures, but it exceeds any realistic capacity of my family to pay. I'm totally okay with student loans and working, but I'm wondering how negotiable the aid awards are?\n\nLooking forward to seeing you all in the fall!\n\n**Edit:** Thanks for the replies everyone. It also looks like I accidentally a word in the title. Changed wording in body.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "that is not the correct usage of enthralled.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "The University's attempts to fix SafeRide. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "wait seriously?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "http://chicagomaroon.com/2012/04/13/extended-shuttle-service-will-replace-saferide/", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "The University's attempts to fix SafeRide. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's incredibly expensive to keep operating. It always seemed too good to be true to me.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "The University's attempts to fix SafeRide. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Fine with me, they drive like freaking lunatics.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "what is the studying aspect at uchicago like?. sorry, i'm sure this question is both vague and asked overmuch. i got accepted this spring, and i'm desperately conflicted about whether or not to go, so if anyone could give me advice that would be wonderful.\n\nI guess just ... after extracurrics and work (how much per week?), will i have free time? i miss having time to read books for fun :( if i visit home once a month for a weekend, will i die trying to catchup on lost work time?\n\nand are the classes/professors unilaterally good and interesting and engaging? are they worth the infamous workload? i've heard from some students that it's sort of hit or miss ...\n\nif anyone can answer, thank you so much. T_T;", "role": "user" }, { "content": "depends what you're studying. usually stuff you would take in your first year isn't too bad unless you decide to slack the whole week, get drunk on friday, then have to make everything up on the weekend.\n\nbut then again, maybe because it's possible to make everything up in two days (as my experience has shown) that's actually what you want. haha", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "what is the studying aspect at uchicago like?. sorry, i'm sure this question is both vague and asked overmuch. i got accepted this spring, and i'm desperately conflicted about whether or not to go, so if anyone could give me advice that would be wonderful.\n\nI guess just ... after extracurrics and work (how much per week?), will i have free time? i miss having time to read books for fun :( if i visit home once a month for a weekend, will i die trying to catchup on lost work time?\n\nand are the classes/professors unilaterally good and interesting and engaging? are they worth the infamous workload? i've heard from some students that it's sort of hit or miss ...\n\nif anyone can answer, thank you so much. T_T;", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It really depends. I read books in my spare time, slacked a lot, took work-intensive classes outside my major just for kicks (dead languages take a lot of time), worked hard, had jobs, socialized quite a lot, and somehow managed to graduate with honors. One of my math classes advertised that it required 20-30 hours of work per week and it honestly should have (it was a blast, but I just didn't invest the time and didn't do as well as I could have accordingly). But, anyway, I always had enough time to have fun and read books and enough time to do all my studying. But here's what you have to avoid: classes with a grinding workload that are boring, not exciting, and not necessary. The class that demanded 30 hours per week was awesome. I had other classes which drove me nearly as hard and I would always make the effort because the teacher was awesoem and the material great. If a class was sucky and they seemed to require a lot of work, fuck it. There's no shame in getting a low B in Core Bio because you don't want to waste time on the big paper. Also, take \"Democracy and Social Science\" for your Soc sequence. A lot less work because you hop into quantitative stuff rather than doing more papers on Marx, some seriously good instructors (I had Andrew Abbott, James Davis, and some third guy whose name I've forgotten but who was also awesome - all pretty big names in their own way, all great instructors).\n\nProfessors are not uniformly awesome. But there are enough awesome ones that you can figure something out. I highly recommend majoring in mathematics no matter what else you study because it is awesome.\n\nThe people I know who did the best in school here also had a lot of fun (and even slept a lot). It's like they actively thought of these two questions: What ought I to do? What do I want to do? And, at any moment, they were doing one or the other, working hard or having fun. Serious about both. Why *slack* when you can actively have fun instead? One of my roommates was pretty intense about it. He'd work like 12 hours per day, have fun 4 hours, and sleep 8 - religious about the sleep. Other people around would work maybe 5 or 6, dick around for 6, have fun for an hour or 2, somehow lose several hours, and get 6 hours of sleep. \n\nAnyway, if I had to do it again, I'd do it again. I hope this rambling answer helped you somewhat. What are your other options?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "oh, that was wonderfully helpful, thank you :)\n\ni was in a highschool magnet sort of deal (IB). My other option is University of Maryland. I thought initially UChicago was a shoe-in, but then i thought super hard and started panicking because a. i hate the cold b. i've already thrown myself into studying hard for 4 years (my average per night is 5-6 hours, and has been for 2 years), and i'm afraid i'm feeling epically burned and college hasn't even started yet. ._.\n\nonly like 1 sentence in this reply answered your question, sorry. xD\n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Even when the work is heavy, it's not like high school. High school is kind of perverse in that you're stuck in place unable to study from like 8 until maybe 4, even, and then you have maybe up to five hours of work on top. Shuck that jive. In college, no matter where you are, you have maybe 12-18 hours of classes, your schedule is very open, maybe you work a bit, too. It's a lot of work and it's *harder*, but it's not going to be like the stupid long hours in high school. Unless you're a pre-med.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "what is the studying aspect at uchicago like?. sorry, i'm sure this question is both vague and asked overmuch. i got accepted this spring, and i'm desperately conflicted about whether or not to go, so if anyone could give me advice that would be wonderful.\n\nI guess just ... after extracurrics and work (how much per week?), will i have free time? i miss having time to read books for fun :( if i visit home once a month for a weekend, will i die trying to catchup on lost work time?\n\nand are the classes/professors unilaterally good and interesting and engaging? are they worth the infamous workload? i've heard from some students that it's sort of hit or miss ...\n\nif anyone can answer, thank you so much. T_T;", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It really depends. I read books in my spare time, slacked a lot, took work-intensive classes outside my major just for kicks (dead languages take a lot of time), worked hard, had jobs, socialized quite a lot, and somehow managed to graduate with honors. One of my math classes advertised that it required 20-30 hours of work per week and it honestly should have (it was a blast, but I just didn't invest the time and didn't do as well as I could have accordingly). But, anyway, I always had enough time to have fun and read books and enough time to do all my studying. But here's what you have to avoid: classes with a grinding workload that are boring, not exciting, and not necessary. The class that demanded 30 hours per week was awesome. I had other classes which drove me nearly as hard and I would always make the effort because the teacher was awesoem and the material great. If a class was sucky and they seemed to require a lot of work, fuck it. There's no shame in getting a low B in Core Bio because you don't want to waste time on the big paper. Also, take \"Democracy and Social Science\" for your Soc sequence. A lot less work because you hop into quantitative stuff rather than doing more papers on Marx, some seriously good instructors (I had Andrew Abbott, James Davis, and some third guy whose name I've forgotten but who was also awesome - all pretty big names in their own way, all great instructors).\n\nProfessors are not uniformly awesome. But there are enough awesome ones that you can figure something out. I highly recommend majoring in mathematics no matter what else you study because it is awesome.\n\nThe people I know who did the best in school here also had a lot of fun (and even slept a lot). It's like they actively thought of these two questions: What ought I to do? What do I want to do? And, at any moment, they were doing one or the other, working hard or having fun. Serious about both. Why *slack* when you can actively have fun instead? One of my roommates was pretty intense about it. He'd work like 12 hours per day, have fun 4 hours, and sleep 8 - religious about the sleep. Other people around would work maybe 5 or 6, dick around for 6, have fun for an hour or 2, somehow lose several hours, and get 6 hours of sleep. \n\nAnyway, if I had to do it again, I'd do it again. I hope this rambling answer helped you somewhat. What are your other options?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "oh, that was wonderfully helpful, thank you :)\n\ni was in a highschool magnet sort of deal (IB). My other option is University of Maryland. I thought initially UChicago was a shoe-in, but then i thought super hard and started panicking because a. i hate the cold b. i've already thrown myself into studying hard for 4 years (my average per night is 5-6 hours, and has been for 2 years), and i'm afraid i'm feeling epically burned and college hasn't even started yet. ._.\n\nonly like 1 sentence in this reply answered your question, sorry. xD\n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's dependent to a great degree on what you are studying and your level of intelligence. I'm a current first year, and I have a job, do a couple extra-curriculars, drink ~2 nights a week, take graduate-level sociology courses (along with some very zzz worthy core reqs), and have earned a 3.8 GPA. It's all about balance, mindset, and management. The idea that it is just **so** hard that you will be glued to your desk* is a misnomer. I'm a dedicated student, I read nearly everything my professors ask, I do my work, and my grades reflect that.\n\n I don't like the fact that people talk about uchicago being too hard. What are you going to do with your college years otherwise, masturbate and drink shitty beer? If you're smart enough to realize that hard work and intellectual dedication are worthwhile, then I advise you to attend. The beer will still be shitty though.\n*excludes physical sciences", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Indeed. Physics is designed to leave you feeling mentally violated.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "That's part of why I recommend a math degree. As cool as physics, but much better hours. No labs! I don't understand the joke that theoretical physicists are the ones to dumb to do math and experimental physicists are too dumb to be theorists - it's precisely the opposite order for me, so I did math out of laziness. It's also easy enough to tack on to just about any degree, since *everybody* should take analysis after taking calculus, and after that it's only like 5 more classes. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Mainly because most of the admin people in the math department (Boller et al) are gigantic pricks.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I was gone before Boller, maybe things have changed.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "My main complaint about the math department is that almost all of the classes are taught by grad students, not professors and there's little to no quality control. In the Physics dept they're almost all professors, and the one I've seen who wasn't was a postdoc. I think, while math is less time consuming, the quality of the education you get from physics is far superior.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "That might be a bit of a change. When I was there, every math class I had was taught by a prof except for two taught by post-docs, but it was in their fields of research. But I didn't take calc and took the honors sequences so my experience is a little different. IIRC, the only courses taught by grad students were calc and courses for non-majors. I suppose those are, by volume, \"most of the classes\", but those getting a degree got, at the least, post-docs. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Besides those intro classes I did take and shortly drop for those reasons, two different maths for physical sciences, and differential equations. They should at least put some effort into ODEs.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Interesting, when I took ODEs it was taught by some old guy who had his own course notes rather than a textbook. Maybe he retired. An unfortunate change. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Lebovitz? Now it's story time from Lebovitz' notes without insight by Grad Student with Intractable Accent #7. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Well, Lebovitz was okay. Grad student sounds lame.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "what is the studying aspect at uchicago like?. sorry, i'm sure this question is both vague and asked overmuch. i got accepted this spring, and i'm desperately conflicted about whether or not to go, so if anyone could give me advice that would be wonderful.\n\nI guess just ... after extracurrics and work (how much per week?), will i have free time? i miss having time to read books for fun :( if i visit home once a month for a weekend, will i die trying to catchup on lost work time?\n\nand are the classes/professors unilaterally good and interesting and engaging? are they worth the infamous workload? i've heard from some students that it's sort of hit or miss ...\n\nif anyone can answer, thank you so much. T_T;", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "It really depends. I read books in my spare time, slacked a lot, took work-intensive classes outside my major just for kicks (dead languages take a lot of time), worked hard, had jobs, socialized quite a lot, and somehow managed to graduate with honors. One of my math classes advertised that it required 20-30 hours of work per week and it honestly should have (it was a blast, but I just didn't invest the time and didn't do as well as I could have accordingly). But, anyway, I always had enough time to have fun and read books and enough time to do all my studying. But here's what you have to avoid: classes with a grinding workload that are boring, not exciting, and not necessary. The class that demanded 30 hours per week was awesome. I had other classes which drove me nearly as hard and I would always make the effort because the teacher was awesoem and the material great. If a class was sucky and they seemed to require a lot of work, fuck it. There's no shame in getting a low B in Core Bio because you don't want to waste time on the big paper. Also, take \"Democracy and Social Science\" for your Soc sequence. A lot less work because you hop into quantitative stuff rather than doing more papers on Marx, some seriously good instructors (I had Andrew Abbott, James Davis, and some third guy whose name I've forgotten but who was also awesome - all pretty big names in their own way, all great instructors).\n\nProfessors are not uniformly awesome. But there are enough awesome ones that you can figure something out. I highly recommend majoring in mathematics no matter what else you study because it is awesome.\n\nThe people I know who did the best in school here also had a lot of fun (and even slept a lot). It's like they actively thought of these two questions: What ought I to do? What do I want to do? And, at any moment, they were doing one or the other, working hard or having fun. Serious about both. Why *slack* when you can actively have fun instead? One of my roommates was pretty intense about it. He'd work like 12 hours per day, have fun 4 hours, and sleep 8 - religious about the sleep. Other people around would work maybe 5 or 6, dick around for 6, have fun for an hour or 2, somehow lose several hours, and get 6 hours of sleep. \n\nAnyway, if I had to do it again, I'd do it again. I hope this rambling answer helped you somewhat. What are your other options?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "oh, that was wonderfully helpful, thank you :)\n\ni was in a highschool magnet sort of deal (IB). My other option is University of Maryland. I thought initially UChicago was a shoe-in, but then i thought super hard and started panicking because a. i hate the cold b. i've already thrown myself into studying hard for 4 years (my average per night is 5-6 hours, and has been for 2 years), and i'm afraid i'm feeling epically burned and college hasn't even started yet. ._.\n\nonly like 1 sentence in this reply answered your question, sorry. xD\n", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "It's dependent to a great degree on what you are studying and your level of intelligence. I'm a current first year, and I have a job, do a couple extra-curriculars, drink ~2 nights a week, take graduate-level sociology courses (along with some very zzz worthy core reqs), and have earned a 3.8 GPA. It's all about balance, mindset, and management. The idea that it is just **so** hard that you will be glued to your desk* is a misnomer. I'm a dedicated student, I read nearly everything my professors ask, I do my work, and my grades reflect that.\n\n I don't like the fact that people talk about uchicago being too hard. What are you going to do with your college years otherwise, masturbate and drink shitty beer? If you're smart enough to realize that hard work and intellectual dedication are worthwhile, then I advise you to attend. The beer will still be shitty though.\n*excludes physical sciences", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Indeed. Physics is designed to leave you feeling mentally violated.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "That's part of why I recommend a math degree. As cool as physics, but much better hours. No labs! I don't understand the joke that theoretical physicists are the ones to dumb to do math and experimental physicists are too dumb to be theorists - it's precisely the opposite order for me, so I did math out of laziness. It's also easy enough to tack on to just about any degree, since *everybody* should take analysis after taking calculus, and after that it's only like 5 more classes. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Mainly because most of the admin people in the math department (Boller et al) are gigantic pricks.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I was gone before Boller, maybe things have changed.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "My main complaint about the math department is that almost all of the classes are taught by grad students, not professors and there's little to no quality control. In the Physics dept they're almost all professors, and the one I've seen who wasn't was a postdoc. I think, while math is less time consuming, the quality of the education you get from physics is far superior.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "That might be a bit of a change. When I was there, every math class I had was taught by a prof except for two taught by post-docs, but it was in their fields of research. But I didn't take calc and took the honors sequences so my experience is a little different. IIRC, the only courses taught by grad students were calc and courses for non-majors. I suppose those are, by volume, \"most of the classes\", but those getting a degree got, at the least, post-docs. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Even in honors sequences, there are grad students teaching. It's the main reason why I did not major in math, and why I encouraged my group of drunk friends to urinate on the math building (as opposed to Bartlett, which was a block away).\n\nAlso, agreed, Boller is an asshole.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I had a friend who made it his mission to urinate on every UC building.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "perhaps I should meet this young fellow", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "what is the studying aspect at uchicago like?. sorry, i'm sure this question is both vague and asked overmuch. i got accepted this spring, and i'm desperately conflicted about whether or not to go, so if anyone could give me advice that would be wonderful.\n\nI guess just ... after extracurrics and work (how much per week?), will i have free time? i miss having time to read books for fun :( if i visit home once a month for a weekend, will i die trying to catchup on lost work time?\n\nand are the classes/professors unilaterally good and interesting and engaging? are they worth the infamous workload? i've heard from some students that it's sort of hit or miss ...\n\nif anyone can answer, thank you so much. T_T;", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "It really depends. I read books in my spare time, slacked a lot, took work-intensive classes outside my major just for kicks (dead languages take a lot of time), worked hard, had jobs, socialized quite a lot, and somehow managed to graduate with honors. One of my math classes advertised that it required 20-30 hours of work per week and it honestly should have (it was a blast, but I just didn't invest the time and didn't do as well as I could have accordingly). But, anyway, I always had enough time to have fun and read books and enough time to do all my studying. But here's what you have to avoid: classes with a grinding workload that are boring, not exciting, and not necessary. The class that demanded 30 hours per week was awesome. I had other classes which drove me nearly as hard and I would always make the effort because the teacher was awesoem and the material great. If a class was sucky and they seemed to require a lot of work, fuck it. There's no shame in getting a low B in Core Bio because you don't want to waste time on the big paper. Also, take \"Democracy and Social Science\" for your Soc sequence. A lot less work because you hop into quantitative stuff rather than doing more papers on Marx, some seriously good instructors (I had Andrew Abbott, James Davis, and some third guy whose name I've forgotten but who was also awesome - all pretty big names in their own way, all great instructors).\n\nProfessors are not uniformly awesome. But there are enough awesome ones that you can figure something out. I highly recommend majoring in mathematics no matter what else you study because it is awesome.\n\nThe people I know who did the best in school here also had a lot of fun (and even slept a lot). It's like they actively thought of these two questions: What ought I to do? What do I want to do? And, at any moment, they were doing one or the other, working hard or having fun. Serious about both. Why *slack* when you can actively have fun instead? One of my roommates was pretty intense about it. He'd work like 12 hours per day, have fun 4 hours, and sleep 8 - religious about the sleep. Other people around would work maybe 5 or 6, dick around for 6, have fun for an hour or 2, somehow lose several hours, and get 6 hours of sleep. \n\nAnyway, if I had to do it again, I'd do it again. I hope this rambling answer helped you somewhat. What are your other options?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "oh, that was wonderfully helpful, thank you :)\n\ni was in a highschool magnet sort of deal (IB). My other option is University of Maryland. I thought initially UChicago was a shoe-in, but then i thought super hard and started panicking because a. i hate the cold b. i've already thrown myself into studying hard for 4 years (my average per night is 5-6 hours, and has been for 2 years), and i'm afraid i'm feeling epically burned and college hasn't even started yet. ._.\n\nonly like 1 sentence in this reply answered your question, sorry. xD\n", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "It's dependent to a great degree on what you are studying and your level of intelligence. I'm a current first year, and I have a job, do a couple extra-curriculars, drink ~2 nights a week, take graduate-level sociology courses (along with some very zzz worthy core reqs), and have earned a 3.8 GPA. It's all about balance, mindset, and management. The idea that it is just **so** hard that you will be glued to your desk* is a misnomer. I'm a dedicated student, I read nearly everything my professors ask, I do my work, and my grades reflect that.\n\n I don't like the fact that people talk about uchicago being too hard. What are you going to do with your college years otherwise, masturbate and drink shitty beer? If you're smart enough to realize that hard work and intellectual dedication are worthwhile, then I advise you to attend. The beer will still be shitty though.\n*excludes physical sciences", "role": "user" }, { "content": "go to [the pub](https://studentactivities.uchicago.edu/services/pub.shtml) for not shitty beer", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "what is the studying aspect at uchicago like?. sorry, i'm sure this question is both vague and asked overmuch. i got accepted this spring, and i'm desperately conflicted about whether or not to go, so if anyone could give me advice that would be wonderful.\n\nI guess just ... after extracurrics and work (how much per week?), will i have free time? i miss having time to read books for fun :( if i visit home once a month for a weekend, will i die trying to catchup on lost work time?\n\nand are the classes/professors unilaterally good and interesting and engaging? are they worth the infamous workload? i've heard from some students that it's sort of hit or miss ...\n\nif anyone can answer, thank you so much. T_T;", "role": "user" }, { "content": "the only aspect", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "what is the studying aspect at uchicago like?. sorry, i'm sure this question is both vague and asked overmuch. i got accepted this spring, and i'm desperately conflicted about whether or not to go, so if anyone could give me advice that would be wonderful.\n\nI guess just ... after extracurrics and work (how much per week?), will i have free time? i miss having time to read books for fun :( if i visit home once a month for a weekend, will i die trying to catchup on lost work time?\n\nand are the classes/professors unilaterally good and interesting and engaging? are they worth the infamous workload? i've heard from some students that it's sort of hit or miss ...\n\nif anyone can answer, thank you so much. T_T;", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I see in one of your comments that you're deciding between here and UMD. These were my two options as well. Feel free to pm me for more advice, but I'll give the general rundown of the pair.\n\nI'm incredibly glad I chose uchicago. I could have gone to UMD basically for free, and I would have had infinitely more free time. I would have been able to socialize more, sleep more, have more fun (depending on how you want to interpret that word). Yet I'm very glad I chose uchicago. It's a wonderful experience being around people who love what they're studying as much as you do. UMD is a great school, but unfortunately the amount of people who really care about their academics isn't so high. For me, as I went to high school in Maryland, it would have been (and is described my many of my friends as such) as high school all over again. You will study a ton at uchicago, and you will have less time than you would like. But if you're studying something that you really like, it's absolutely worth it. The work isn't bad if you find it interesting. And the intellectual culture is incomparable to what you'd find at UMD. So if you're like me, and you get off on obscure academic/intellectual discussions and the like, then uchicago is perfect. All the professors I've had have been great (ok, with the exception of a really dickish math professor), and made me love what I'm studying all the more.\n\nAnyway, bottom line is that if you're really interested in your studies, if you're passionate about learning and reading and discussing, then absolutely come to uchicago. And again, feel free to pm if you want any more advice.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "yay, thanks for the offer! i visited last week and i feel a tad last trepidatious about everything. the workload isn't as scary now that i've talked to a load of students. the class i sat in on seemed super interesting and awesome. still have yet to make a final decision, but i'm definitely leaning toward UChicago now. thanks again :)", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "what is the studying aspect at uchicago like?. sorry, i'm sure this question is both vague and asked overmuch. i got accepted this spring, and i'm desperately conflicted about whether or not to go, so if anyone could give me advice that would be wonderful.\n\nI guess just ... after extracurrics and work (how much per week?), will i have free time? i miss having time to read books for fun :( if i visit home once a month for a weekend, will i die trying to catchup on lost work time?\n\nand are the classes/professors unilaterally good and interesting and engaging? are they worth the infamous workload? i've heard from some students that it's sort of hit or miss ...\n\nif anyone can answer, thank you so much. T_T;", "role": "user" }, { "content": "UChicago is tough. Very tough. But, there are many, many resources for help, and when you get through this place, your degree will carry weight and great meaning to both graduate schools and employers. The graduation rate is 96% ish percent, so most people make it out, and, judging by the count from last year's graduation program, 74% of people graduate with some kind of honors. If you come here and work, you'll do fine.\n\nI have taken on far too much work and responsibility, and I'm dying right now, but I'm happy. That's the UChicago way. You grow into it, and that is precisely why the degree means so much. It signifies that you know how to suck it up and get shit done.\n\nAnother point that my high school counselor brought up is that I would like UChicago people. In high school, I hated my friends. They were boring as hell. I like my friends here. They're quirky and interesting and keep up (or leave me in the dust). it's interesting. There are interesting conversations and ideas all around you. You won't get that at UMD. No way. When you buy into UChicago, you're geting the image, the atmosphere, the intellectualism. That brand that they're selling you, it's real. Yes, there are very normal people here, too. Except that they tend to be very unique and interesting under the surface. Most of the frat brothers I know are very intelligent and very into their studies. \n\nThe amount of work you do, your social circles, etc-- that all varies by your program of study. I'm a physics major and I want to die every Tuesday night because my problem sets are both due the next morning. My International Studies major friend is two days ahead in all her readings and spends two hours a day doing her nails. (She did as well as me in honors physics last quarter, too, so I'm not calling IS majors lazy or dumb.) You can make time to do what you want. That's true pretty much everywhere.\n\nSo, yeah. Thanks for the procrastination on my Classics paper. And you should come here. If you're good enough to get in, then you can handle it. And anyone who has been offered the gift of this education should take it.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "fisticuffs! our Core versus yours. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I... have no idea what that article's point was. It started out comparing the two core curricula, then went on a weird rant about Zimmer, who does indeed suck.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "fisticuffs! our Core versus yours. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "This is really poorly written.\n\nIt starts out comparing the two curricula, comes out super strong against Chicago, then throws in a bunch of random quotes that don't really add anything or support one side or the other. Then it lightly chastises Columbia and then implies Chicago will follow in step. There's no focus or clear train of thought.\n\nNot to mention that the article seems predicated on the false notion that UChicago's core classes are disparate and disconnected. My hum, sosc and civ classes were all year-long classes which retained over 90% of the class each quarter. The author doesn't seem to understand this at all.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "fisticuffs! our Core versus yours. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Not only is it poorly written but it's blatantly inaccurate in places. For example, \"Sosc\" does not stand for \"sociology,\" but for \"social sciences.\"", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "\"If you ever found yourself rooting against the main characters in Raisin in the Sun, you're on the same side as the University of Chicago.\". ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I expect someone from UChicago to provide a valid source for such a statement, not someone (who is likely them), ranting on a forum. At least include the factual assertions and not just their concluding emotional opinion. \n\nThe relevant part of the forum is this comment\n>While it is true many other universities have tenuous relationships with their surrounding communities, the University of Chicago is unique.\n\n>It used to specifically and actively organize surrounding property owners to use restrictive covenants to deny the sale or leasing of housing to african americans in Woodlawn. After the Supreme Court abolished the practice, Lorraine Hansberry's family moved into the neighborhood. If you ever found yourself rooting against the main characters in Raisin in the Sun, you're on the same side as the University of Chicago.\n\n>All I'm saying is that if the OP wants to attend Chicago and treat the surrounding community with contempt, she will not be in conflict with the values of the institution. One might even argue she is upholding them. \n\n\nWhich is a much more substantive argument than your quote. As someone on that forum said, the sad truth is that many colleges, especially the richer, and more urban ones, have a history of acting in ways that benefit themselves at the expense of the town in which they are located. Unfortunately, UChicao is not unique in this.\n\nDid you know Harvard used to not admit women or minorities? Gasp, it's true, and a sad part of Harvard and this country's history. Same with most colleges. \n\nYou clearly have a personal vendetta against the university. But in typical Chicago style, I am still willing to discuss the accomplishments, and failures, of an institution I respect. That is of course, assuming you are willing to use evidence and not just appeals to emotion. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I am in neither community, but as far as I know both are good! Most of the physics people I know have a lot of work but they seem to enjoy it, despite the typical complaints. Expect a lot of staying up to finish homework. From what I've heard the teachers are tough and don't coddle you, but help is readily available through office hours, optional meetings, TAs, tutors, and peers. \n\nWe have a lot of LGBT events and clubs, though a lot of the LGBT people I know don't actively participate in any specific \"community,\" per se. Though if I were to describe it as one, it would be quite large. If you want to meet people (and aren't afraid to put yourself out there), you will. There are also popular \"gay parties,\" though plenty of straight people go too, where people have fairly high success rates of hooking up. I have never once encountered discrimination on a higher level other than maybe a \"that's gay\" or stereotypical voice every once in a while. But I don't think any of it has been maliciously meant.\n\nThis is all, of course, coming from someone who really knows nothing of either topic firsthand. I was basically just procrastinating heavily and felt bad that no one had answered your post yet.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "As someone who is also heavily procrastinating, I understand ;) but really, thank you! Another question (if you're not too busy): How many discussions do you get in over constructive disagreement? Do people have very similar opinions? (I apologize for the confusing wording.)", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It depends on how similar you mean? It is a college campus: on the outside, we tend to all lean towards the liberal/atheist viewpoint, but I don't think that always shows in our discussions, and the majority by no means is everyone. Being a (potential) philosophy major, I've had a lot of discussions/debates on utilitarianism, empiricism, metaphysics, and more. Everyone seems to have different opinions on these fronts, and it's pretty awesome getting to talk with them. I've met (and talked with) people from nearly every major religion, and almost all debates are very civil. People are (usually) very open-minded as well as intelligent here, so those with opinions in the minority typically aren't afraid to voice their opinions, and most debates are fair, eloquent, and even. Also, a lot of people just like to debate for the sake of an interesting debate, which is perhaps what you mean by \"constructive disagreement?\" Playing devil's advocate is very common both in the classroom and out of it. Party politics is probably the worst in terms of a lack of diversity. \"Mainstream\" social Republicans get the worst time of it, Libertarians, and economic conservatives are more common/accepted.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Thanks, that was exactly what I was wondering =) Thank you for your time.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Haha no problem! Feel free to reply or pm me whenever if you think of more questions!", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I am in neither community, but as far as I know both are good! Most of the physics people I know have a lot of work but they seem to enjoy it, despite the typical complaints. Expect a lot of staying up to finish homework. From what I've heard the teachers are tough and don't coddle you, but help is readily available through office hours, optional meetings, TAs, tutors, and peers. \n\nWe have a lot of LGBT events and clubs, though a lot of the LGBT people I know don't actively participate in any specific \"community,\" per se. Though if I were to describe it as one, it would be quite large. If you want to meet people (and aren't afraid to put yourself out there), you will. There are also popular \"gay parties,\" though plenty of straight people go too, where people have fairly high success rates of hooking up. I have never once encountered discrimination on a higher level other than maybe a \"that's gay\" or stereotypical voice every once in a while. But I don't think any of it has been maliciously meant.\n\nThis is all, of course, coming from someone who really knows nothing of either topic firsthand. I was basically just procrastinating heavily and felt bad that no one had answered your post yet.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "As someone who is also heavily procrastinating, I understand ;) but really, thank you! Another question (if you're not too busy): How many discussions do you get in over constructive disagreement? Do people have very similar opinions? (I apologize for the confusing wording.)", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "It depends on how similar you mean? It is a college campus: on the outside, we tend to all lean towards the liberal/atheist viewpoint, but I don't think that always shows in our discussions, and the majority by no means is everyone. Being a (potential) philosophy major, I've had a lot of discussions/debates on utilitarianism, empiricism, metaphysics, and more. Everyone seems to have different opinions on these fronts, and it's pretty awesome getting to talk with them. I've met (and talked with) people from nearly every major religion, and almost all debates are very civil. People are (usually) very open-minded as well as intelligent here, so those with opinions in the minority typically aren't afraid to voice their opinions, and most debates are fair, eloquent, and even. Also, a lot of people just like to debate for the sake of an interesting debate, which is perhaps what you mean by \"constructive disagreement?\" Playing devil's advocate is very common both in the classroom and out of it. Party politics is probably the worst in terms of a lack of diversity. \"Mainstream\" social Republicans get the worst time of it, Libertarians, and economic conservatives are more common/accepted.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I've sometimes been surprised by how theist students are here. In the Physics department, atheism is just about ubiquitous. But every time I've talked about God in a philosophy/humanities class I've been the only atheist (at least, the only one willing to argue for it). But it's never been a problem, I agree that people are pretty open-minded (mainstream Republicanism possibly excepted).", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Wow, really? I guess I've come across quite a few pantheists or deists, but I'd say my experience has been almost the complete opposite! ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's odd. Socially: 99% of the people I know are atheists. Talk about God in class: I'm completely alone.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "It's fabulous....\n\n\n.... Can't speak to LGBT life though.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "What do you like about it, specifically?\nThank you for your reply!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Actually, I don't know about it. I'm just somewhat tipsy and thought myself funny with that response... you know the old answer the second question with an answer that reads like the first... never mind, just ignore that whole part.\n\nBut I would think hard about what you want from university before coming to UChicago. Everything here is world class if you want to show up and work your ass off. If you want some place fun, in a nice area, with weather that doesn't suck, or just a place that doesn't make everything seem miserable a lot of them time, consider other places. UChicago is one of the elite schools on the planet and every professor and grad student you interact with will be equal to or better than their equivalents elsewhere but this really is the least fun University that doesn't ban alcohol or pre-marital sex in America.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Many people seem to be referring to the school's \"lack of fun.\"\n\nIs it the intense workload that causes this or just the atmosphere? Or is mostly a joke?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "The workload is definitely a part of it. The neighborhood plays a part too, it is safe but not so safe you want to walk at night alone, especially if you're smaller and/or female (Disclaimer: You will not be in Chicago, you'll be a $35+ cab ride from anywhere in Chicago you want to go but there is public transit to those places as well. I have a car and I rarely go into town just because its going to be over 20 minutes and then I can't drink.\n\nI'm not saying you won't have a good time if you come here, just that every other university in America would be more fun. But if you're brilliant and hard working and show up with a mind to getting everything academically out of your undergrad education, it'd be tough to do worse in that regard.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Thank you for the comprehensive and detailed replies =)", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "No problem.... and as far as LGBT stuff goes, I'm pretty sure it is as good as any other place... hell, I'd imagine having the LGBT groups would probably offer more social opportunities than the straight kids get. I haven't heard of a single noteworthy bias event while I've been here. I have to imagine most UChicago people are too busy with physics to care who's fucking who.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I see all those 'stop bias!' flyers and wonder what the Statistics department is so up in arms about", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's fabulous....\n\n\n.... Can't speak to LGBT life though.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "What do you like about it, specifically?\nThank you for your reply!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Actually, I don't know about it. I'm just somewhat tipsy and thought myself funny with that response... you know the old answer the second question with an answer that reads like the first... never mind, just ignore that whole part.\n\nBut I would think hard about what you want from university before coming to UChicago. Everything here is world class if you want to show up and work your ass off. If you want some place fun, in a nice area, with weather that doesn't suck, or just a place that doesn't make everything seem miserable a lot of them time, consider other places. UChicago is one of the elite schools on the planet and every professor and grad student you interact with will be equal to or better than their equivalents elsewhere but this really is the least fun University that doesn't ban alcohol or pre-marital sex in America.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Many people seem to be referring to the school's \"lack of fun.\"\n\nIs it the intense workload that causes this or just the atmosphere? Or is mostly a joke?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The workload is definitely a part of it. The neighborhood plays a part too, it is safe but not so safe you want to walk at night alone, especially if you're smaller and/or female (Disclaimer: You will not be in Chicago, you'll be a $35+ cab ride from anywhere in Chicago you want to go but there is public transit to those places as well. I have a car and I rarely go into town just because its going to be over 20 minutes and then I can't drink.\n\nI'm not saying you won't have a good time if you come here, just that every other university in America would be more fun. But if you're brilliant and hard working and show up with a mind to getting everything academically out of your undergrad education, it'd be tough to do worse in that regard.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Thank you for the comprehensive and detailed replies =)", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Just take the CTA. It's only an hour even up to Bryn Mwar and it'll cost you 2.50. I've never taken a cab here because they're ridiculously expensive. People say it's where \"fun goes to die\" but I think they're kind of silly. The biggest problem I've seen here is for people from sunshine states not used to the winter. It's not that it's cold, but rather that it is overcast all the time and they tend towards seasonal depression. That is the only real physical impediment. Hyde Park is comfortable, relatively quiet, and generally alright. Common sense (meaning things like don't walk around flaunting your 300 dollar headphones) is usually enough to keep you safe and the Uni has a massive dedicated police force to help too.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's fabulous....\n\n\n.... Can't speak to LGBT life though.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "What do you like about it, specifically?\nThank you for your reply!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Actually, I don't know about it. I'm just somewhat tipsy and thought myself funny with that response... you know the old answer the second question with an answer that reads like the first... never mind, just ignore that whole part.\n\nBut I would think hard about what you want from university before coming to UChicago. Everything here is world class if you want to show up and work your ass off. If you want some place fun, in a nice area, with weather that doesn't suck, or just a place that doesn't make everything seem miserable a lot of them time, consider other places. UChicago is one of the elite schools on the planet and every professor and grad student you interact with will be equal to or better than their equivalents elsewhere but this really is the least fun University that doesn't ban alcohol or pre-marital sex in America.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Many people seem to be referring to the school's \"lack of fun.\"\n\nIs it the intense workload that causes this or just the atmosphere? Or is mostly a joke?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I have plenty of fun here. Of course I also don't have the work load of a physics major. But it's not as boring as people make it out to be. It depends on your definition of fun, if you are looking for big frat parties like in movies then yeah you won't find that. If you are happy with drinking with friends and having great conversations then you can easily find that here. I just got back from playing drinking games based around Settlers of Catan. \n\nAlso part of it is that being in the South Side makes it harder to leave the Hyde Park bubble since we are surrounded by other less pleasant neighborhoods. Hyde Park itself is relatively safe compared with the rest of the city. Keep in mind though that it is a city and nowhere is actually \"safe\", but the UCPD (University of Chicago Police Department) does make it much safer.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "As someone who does not like big parties, this is wonderful to hear.\n\nI'm not really from a city, though I have been to Chicago (and I really enjoyed it!) so how big of a transition is getting a sort of \"urban common sense\"?\n\nThank you for your time!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I can't really answer the question about the transition, being a Chicago native and having lived all my life in big cities. It really depends on where you are from and on your attitude, but it is usually easy for most people to transition. Our orientation week here is great and will really help you get a feel for things, we have plenty of people from rural areas who are doing perfectly fine. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's fabulous....\n\n\n.... Can't speak to LGBT life though.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "What do you like about it, specifically?\nThank you for your reply!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Actually, I don't know about it. I'm just somewhat tipsy and thought myself funny with that response... you know the old answer the second question with an answer that reads like the first... never mind, just ignore that whole part.\n\nBut I would think hard about what you want from university before coming to UChicago. Everything here is world class if you want to show up and work your ass off. If you want some place fun, in a nice area, with weather that doesn't suck, or just a place that doesn't make everything seem miserable a lot of them time, consider other places. UChicago is one of the elite schools on the planet and every professor and grad student you interact with will be equal to or better than their equivalents elsewhere but this really is the least fun University that doesn't ban alcohol or pre-marital sex in America.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Many people seem to be referring to the school's \"lack of fun.\"\n\nIs it the intense workload that causes this or just the atmosphere? Or is mostly a joke?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I have plenty of fun here. Of course I also don't have the work load of a physics major. But it's not as boring as people make it out to be. It depends on your definition of fun, if you are looking for big frat parties like in movies then yeah you won't find that. If you are happy with drinking with friends and having great conversations then you can easily find that here. I just got back from playing drinking games based around Settlers of Catan. \n\nAlso part of it is that being in the South Side makes it harder to leave the Hyde Park bubble since we are surrounded by other less pleasant neighborhoods. Hyde Park itself is relatively safe compared with the rest of the city. Keep in mind though that it is a city and nowhere is actually \"safe\", but the UCPD (University of Chicago Police Department) does make it much safer.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "As someone who does not like big parties, this is wonderful to hear.\n\nI'm not really from a city, though I have been to Chicago (and I really enjoyed it!) so how big of a transition is getting a sort of \"urban common sense\"?\n\nThank you for your time!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's not as big of a deal as people make it out to be. Urban common sense = don't go places alone at night. There are also some more dangerous areas, where it probably wouldn't be a good idea to take your phone out and start texting (friend got hers stolen at the bus stop).", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's fabulous....\n\n\n.... Can't speak to LGBT life though.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "What do you like about it, specifically?\nThank you for your reply!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Actually, I don't know about it. I'm just somewhat tipsy and thought myself funny with that response... you know the old answer the second question with an answer that reads like the first... never mind, just ignore that whole part.\n\nBut I would think hard about what you want from university before coming to UChicago. Everything here is world class if you want to show up and work your ass off. If you want some place fun, in a nice area, with weather that doesn't suck, or just a place that doesn't make everything seem miserable a lot of them time, consider other places. UChicago is one of the elite schools on the planet and every professor and grad student you interact with will be equal to or better than their equivalents elsewhere but this really is the least fun University that doesn't ban alcohol or pre-marital sex in America.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Many people seem to be referring to the school's \"lack of fun.\"\n\nIs it the intense workload that causes this or just the atmosphere? Or is mostly a joke?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I have plenty of fun here. Of course I also don't have the work load of a physics major. But it's not as boring as people make it out to be. It depends on your definition of fun, if you are looking for big frat parties like in movies then yeah you won't find that. If you are happy with drinking with friends and having great conversations then you can easily find that here. I just got back from playing drinking games based around Settlers of Catan. \n\nAlso part of it is that being in the South Side makes it harder to leave the Hyde Park bubble since we are surrounded by other less pleasant neighborhoods. Hyde Park itself is relatively safe compared with the rest of the city. Keep in mind though that it is a city and nowhere is actually \"safe\", but the UCPD (University of Chicago Police Department) does make it much safer.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Sorry, realize I'm a little late here, but I just discovered the UChicago subreddit and I got really excited when I saw your Settlers reference. Care to share any of the drinking games?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Well we always tweak the rules around a bit, and have yet to find the perfect set of rules but in general when someone builds a town everyone has a drink. When you build a city, everyone else has two drinks. When a 7 is rolled everyone takes a drink and whoever has a resource stolen from them also takes a drink. When you build the longest road, the first time everyone takes a drink, after that the person that you took the longest road takes a drink (same thing for largest army). When you play a development card, you choose someone to take a drink. When a 2 or 12 is rolled, you can make a new drinking rule (when you don't grab a resource card in a turn you drink, etc.), and once you win you are the King/Queen of Catan for one turn and you can choose for the drinking rules (from rolling a 2 or 12) to not apply to you.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's fabulous....\n\n\n.... Can't speak to LGBT life though.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "What do you like about it, specifically?\nThank you for your reply!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Actually, I don't know about it. I'm just somewhat tipsy and thought myself funny with that response... you know the old answer the second question with an answer that reads like the first... never mind, just ignore that whole part.\n\nBut I would think hard about what you want from university before coming to UChicago. Everything here is world class if you want to show up and work your ass off. If you want some place fun, in a nice area, with weather that doesn't suck, or just a place that doesn't make everything seem miserable a lot of them time, consider other places. UChicago is one of the elite schools on the planet and every professor and grad student you interact with will be equal to or better than their equivalents elsewhere but this really is the least fun University that doesn't ban alcohol or pre-marital sex in America.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Many people seem to be referring to the school's \"lack of fun.\"\n\nIs it the intense workload that causes this or just the atmosphere? Or is mostly a joke?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "The fun is getting a LOT better. I heard a friend say that the frat scene has increased almost 100-200% (a number somewhere in that, 150% i think) in the past year or two.\n\nOf course, if you're not into frats, the increase should show that the fun is increasing on average. :)\n\nThere IS a lot of work though, and academics is a valid excuse if you can't make any social event and people understand that.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "It's fabulous....\n\n\n.... Can't speak to LGBT life though.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "What do you like about it, specifically?\nThank you for your reply!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Actually, I don't know about it. I'm just somewhat tipsy and thought myself funny with that response... you know the old answer the second question with an answer that reads like the first... never mind, just ignore that whole part.\n\nBut I would think hard about what you want from university before coming to UChicago. Everything here is world class if you want to show up and work your ass off. If you want some place fun, in a nice area, with weather that doesn't suck, or just a place that doesn't make everything seem miserable a lot of them time, consider other places. UChicago is one of the elite schools on the planet and every professor and grad student you interact with will be equal to or better than their equivalents elsewhere but this really is the least fun University that doesn't ban alcohol or pre-marital sex in America.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "Many people seem to be referring to the school's \"lack of fun.\"\n\nIs it the intense workload that causes this or just the atmosphere? Or is mostly a joke?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Ouch! I disagree with this comment. I have tons of fun all the time here! I guess it can depend on your major/experience/friends, but I absolutely love it here and can't imagine having more fun anywhere else!", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "It's fabulous....\n\n\n.... Can't speak to LGBT life though.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "well played.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "UChicago and Chicago have a rather vibrant LGBT community, though, as others have mentioned, the community in Chicago is about an hour away on public transit, or a 30 dollar cab ride. While I am not gay, I cannot imagine anything about UChicago that would keep me away if I were.\n\nAs for physics, coming to a school like UChicago has its upsides and downsides. Here, and at other great research institutions, proffessors get their job based on the quality of research they have done and the amount of grant money they will pull in, but not on their teaching ability. While I never had a bad teacher in physics, it is not exactly a warm community either. That said, there is much more here for the ambitious student than you will find elsewhere, with opportunities to be found working in wold-class research facilities. I know students who have conducted research at the particle accelerator at fermi lab and I even had a friend spend half a year abroad at the US research lab in Antarctica. \n\nAbout \"where fun comes to die.\" I always got annoyed with that stuff. If you want to have fun you will be able to have fun. Sure, there will be all-nighters studying and a few problem sets from hell, but I don't think I worked harder than my friends from high school who went to other \"elite\" institutions. There is a subset of the student body that feels a perverse sense of pride in their academic rigor, but I think it has more to do with the student body than actual course work. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "that's not really accurate. There have historically been a lot of problems in the university because there have been great researchers who aren't great teachers, and there is a lot of dispute over whether or not those sorts of people should be hired.\n\nI would agree on the coursework. I take half graduate classes as an undergraduate and I still have no reason to stay up all night. The sort of people who stay up all night, only work for three hours of it, and then talk for the next week about it sort of bother me. If you have the willpower to sit down and just do your work for 4 hours a day or whatever you could be asleep by 9 every night if you wanted.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "As a gay Physics graduate of the UofC (A.B. 2008), I am here to plug some research programs. \n\nDefinitely check out the [Chicago-Chile exchange program](http://jfi.uchicago.edu/~tten/Chile/) in say your 3rd year if you are into materials/soft-condensed matter Physics. The group in Chicago is very very strong and the summer undergraduate research assistantship is an opportunity for both research and travel like no other!\n\n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I know someone who did that program and can confirm it is a good idea.\n\nAlso, just wanted to point out that the best thing the physics department here has done for me is getting me involved in research. Other schools will teach you much the same stuff out of the same textbooks, but not all can give you the same opportunities for doing research under world-class scientists and at world-renowned institutions (Fermilab and Argonne).\n\nEveryone agrees this school has its problems, but not everyone agrees on what they are. The quarter system can get pretty intense and there are very few classes that will let you skate by and get a good grade, so you do need to be ready to seriously apply yourself, but if you can do that I think it's worth it.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "How is LGBT life at UChicago? (also the physics program). Hey! I'm a gay physics nerd from southern California who's looking at UChicago (I'm loving what I'm hearing =) it seems like the student body is really passionate about a variety of interests). So... How *is* the LGBT life? And the physics department (quality of teachers specifically)?", "role": "user" }, { "content": "They're both fantastic. In fact, the physics department is more or less run by the LGBT community.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Missed Connection: East Shuttle. Hi. We rode the East Shuttle today at around 7:15. You were cute, had dark hair, and said hi to me as you were exiting at the stop before Village Foods. I think you noticed me browsing Reddit on my phone, hence writing this here. I just wanted to say that I wish I had talked to you!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "waka waka..", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Missed Connection: East Shuttle. Hi. We rode the East Shuttle today at around 7:15. You were cute, had dark hair, and said hi to me as you were exiting at the stop before Village Foods. I think you noticed me browsing Reddit on my phone, hence writing this here. I just wanted to say that I wish I had talked to you!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "http://i0.kym-cdn.com/entries/icons/original/000/003/619/Untitled-1.jpg", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Law, Letters, and Society. Can someone tell me about this major/program? How competitive is it? How many of your classes are taken with the same group of people? What's it like? Do you like it? How are the professors? etc. etc. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Hey, I'm not personally Law, Letters major (that's the closest thing we have to an acronym for the program, we just drop the \"Society\"), but I have a few friends who are, and as no one else has answered yet, here's my stab at your questions.\n\nTo my knowledge, it is fairly competitive. Far from everyone who applies gets in, and the people I know in the program are really smart, even for UChicago. That said, not a ton of people know about it (weird, right?), and it self-selects in a way.\n\nReally can't answer your second, third or fourth, questions (I'm rather useless, sorry). The professors are AWESOME, from what I've heard. And by this I mainly mean that Prof Hutchinson, who basically created this program, is the baddesst ass dude of all time. OF ALL TIME. I've had a chance to meet with him/hear him speak, and I honestly have to fight the compulsion to bow to him every time. This man is truly an old school academic. \n\nApart from those little bits of knowledge, I know that from what I've heard, those who are in the major really enjoy it, although the classes are quite difficult. Even for UChicago, these classes pack on the reading. And so ends my attempts to speak on something I have close to no understanding of, also known as \"writing an essay\".\n\n*edit: grammar 'n' stuff.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Law, Letters, and Society. Can someone tell me about this major/program? How competitive is it? How many of your classes are taken with the same group of people? What's it like? Do you like it? How are the professors? etc. etc. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "your username says it all. It's white noise imo, a bastardization of poly sci/history/sociology in order to display LAW SCHOOL in capital letters on your resume.\n\nedit: discounting the true chicago who really excel at it.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Law, Letters, and Society. Can someone tell me about this major/program? How competitive is it? How many of your classes are taken with the same group of people? What's it like? Do you like it? How are the professors? etc. etc. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I was a LLS major, class of 09. The program is amazing, and I directly credit it with my getting an A in Con Law during my 1L year. It's a build-your-own major that gives you great versatility in building a curriculum, and the head of the program, Prof Hutchinson, does not fuck around. When I was there they took 25 from a pool of a little under 100 applicants, so its pretty competitive. The \"Law\" required class taken during the fall of your second year is the only class you take with other LLS majors.\n\nAll in all, I thought it was great. I wrote my thesis on whether virtual property in MMOs should be taxed and how existing tax law treats it, taking classes in Economics, PoliSci, History, Sociology, Statistics, and at the law school.\n\n9/10 would take again (but only if you're 100% set on law school, which is a serious question in its own right)", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Law, Letters, and Society. Can someone tell me about this major/program? How competitive is it? How many of your classes are taken with the same group of people? What's it like? Do you like it? How are the professors? etc. etc. ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "2nd Year LLSO major here.\n1. Like the others said, fairly competitive; acceptance seems to continue to hover at around one in four.\n2. Will you see everyone in the major from your year frequently, after the mandatory course Fall quarter of your second year? No. Are you likely to have a couple of them in your classes every quarter? Yes. \n3. I absolutely love it. It gives you the flexibility to take courses from a wide variety of departments–perfect if you're a real interdisciplinary person. I've taken polisci, history, environmental studies and English classes this year and really enjoyed all of them.\n4. Since it's not a department, the professors are obviously a cross-section of UChicago professors. Hutchinson, who you'll have for your mandatory course (Legal Reasoning) is a phenomenal teacher. He's also a great person to have as an advisor; I've gotten way more from meeting with him about academic and career stuff than I have from my college advisor. \nI also want to push back against the idea this has to be pre-law. Are a lot of Law, Letters majors going to wind up in law school? Yes. But not all of them do. I, for one, am not planning it in the near future, and remain very happy with my choice of major. \n", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "If you don't plan on law school, it seems some other interdisciplinary major, like Fundamentals or that Hum one, seems better, no? Especially in this job market.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I don't think those majors have any advantage over LLSO. I'm leaning on either journalism or non-profit/public service as careers, so I think it's a good fit. I'm also planning to apply to the BA/MA program in IR, which I hope will be a leg up if I want to try to be a foreign correspondent, work on international policy, etc. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Law, Letters, and Society. Can someone tell me about this major/program? How competitive is it? How many of your classes are taken with the same group of people? What's it like? Do you like it? How are the professors? etc. etc. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "2nd Year LLSO major here.\n1. Like the others said, fairly competitive; acceptance seems to continue to hover at around one in four.\n2. Will you see everyone in the major from your year frequently, after the mandatory course Fall quarter of your second year? No. Are you likely to have a couple of them in your classes every quarter? Yes. \n3. I absolutely love it. It gives you the flexibility to take courses from a wide variety of departments–perfect if you're a real interdisciplinary person. I've taken polisci, history, environmental studies and English classes this year and really enjoyed all of them.\n4. Since it's not a department, the professors are obviously a cross-section of UChicago professors. Hutchinson, who you'll have for your mandatory course (Legal Reasoning) is a phenomenal teacher. He's also a great person to have as an advisor; I've gotten way more from meeting with him about academic and career stuff than I have from my college advisor. \nI also want to push back against the idea this has to be pre-law. Are a lot of Law, Letters majors going to wind up in law school? Yes. But not all of them do. I, for one, am not planning it in the near future, and remain very happy with my choice of major. \n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you don't plan on law school, it seems some other interdisciplinary major, like Fundamentals or that Hum one, seems better, no? Especially in this job market.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I can't imagine why the other majors would fare any different in the current job market. Can you explain? ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "I don't think they'd necessarily fare any different. I just don't think someone with an Law, Letters degree would fare worse than, say, someone in Fundamentals (of course, your job search is going to be contingent on more factors than just your major). EDIT: I see that wasn't directed towards me. Oh well, point stands. ", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Law, Letters, and Society. Can someone tell me about this major/program? How competitive is it? How many of your classes are taken with the same group of people? What's it like? Do you like it? How are the professors? etc. etc. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "2nd Year LLSO major here.\n1. Like the others said, fairly competitive; acceptance seems to continue to hover at around one in four.\n2. Will you see everyone in the major from your year frequently, after the mandatory course Fall quarter of your second year? No. Are you likely to have a couple of them in your classes every quarter? Yes. \n3. I absolutely love it. It gives you the flexibility to take courses from a wide variety of departments–perfect if you're a real interdisciplinary person. I've taken polisci, history, environmental studies and English classes this year and really enjoyed all of them.\n4. Since it's not a department, the professors are obviously a cross-section of UChicago professors. Hutchinson, who you'll have for your mandatory course (Legal Reasoning) is a phenomenal teacher. He's also a great person to have as an advisor; I've gotten way more from meeting with him about academic and career stuff than I have from my college advisor. \nI also want to push back against the idea this has to be pre-law. Are a lot of Law, Letters majors going to wind up in law school? Yes. But not all of them do. I, for one, am not planning it in the near future, and remain very happy with my choice of major. \n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you don't plan on law school, it seems some other interdisciplinary major, like Fundamentals or that Hum one, seems better, no? Especially in this job market.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I can't imagine why the other majors would fare any different in the current job market. Can you explain? ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "His comment is ambiguous and confusing, but I think he meant that unless you want to do law-related things, you'd probably be more intellectually enriched by other majors? I don't think Fundamentals or Classics leads you towards any better chance of employment than a LLSO degree would...", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Law, Letters, and Society. Can someone tell me about this major/program? How competitive is it? How many of your classes are taken with the same group of people? What's it like? Do you like it? How are the professors? etc. etc. ", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "2nd Year LLSO major here.\n1. Like the others said, fairly competitive; acceptance seems to continue to hover at around one in four.\n2. Will you see everyone in the major from your year frequently, after the mandatory course Fall quarter of your second year? No. Are you likely to have a couple of them in your classes every quarter? Yes. \n3. I absolutely love it. It gives you the flexibility to take courses from a wide variety of departments–perfect if you're a real interdisciplinary person. I've taken polisci, history, environmental studies and English classes this year and really enjoyed all of them.\n4. Since it's not a department, the professors are obviously a cross-section of UChicago professors. Hutchinson, who you'll have for your mandatory course (Legal Reasoning) is a phenomenal teacher. He's also a great person to have as an advisor; I've gotten way more from meeting with him about academic and career stuff than I have from my college advisor. \nI also want to push back against the idea this has to be pre-law. Are a lot of Law, Letters majors going to wind up in law school? Yes. But not all of them do. I, for one, am not planning it in the near future, and remain very happy with my choice of major. \n", "role": "user" }, { "content": "If you don't plan on law school, it seems some other interdisciplinary major, like Fundamentals or that Hum one, seems better, no? Especially in this job market.", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I can't imagine why the other majors would fare any different in the current job market. Can you explain? ", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Ah, yeah. I tried to be brief when typing on my phone, but it seems I was confusingly so.\n\nI meant two things: (1) other interdisciplinary majors seem better if you don't want to go to law school and (2) other majors (generally) seem better in this job market, like Econ, Math, any of the sciences, etc.", "role": "assistant" } ]

[ { "content": "Hey UChicago, I released a platforming game, Inspiration Dave. http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/595009\n\nHey guys, I'm a student at the college (sean hogan - @seagaia2) . I recently put out a game I finished near the end of winter quarter. Kind of just wanted to see if the game dev scene is existent or not at UChicago, and share what I made. Let me know what you think, or if you've made any games yourself/etc.!", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "It's cute. :) I can tell it's actually from a uchicago person by the very hipster backstory.", "role": "user" }, { "content": "though hes not a hipster", "role": "assistant" }, { "content": "I don't know what I am!", "role": "user" }, { "content": "Ya, you're definitely from uchicago. \n\nHave you ever heard of OpenGL? I hear it's great for making games. ", "role": "assistant" } ]