Is UChicago or Northwestern a better fit for my interests?
I'm currently a junior starting to make my college list, and I'm a little stuck because both UChicago and Northwestern seem like amazing options, but pretty different. I'm interested in economics and maybe political science, and I want an academic vibe that's challenging but also somewhere I can make friends easily and have a life outside of studying.
I visited both campuses briefly, but didn't get a deep sense of the culture at either place. For anyone who's actually attending or applied to these schools, could you share what made you pick one over the other? Things like class size, social scene, clubs, and even the different parts of Chicago they're in would be helpful. Any guidance would be appreciated since I’m pretty stressed about making a decision!
I visited both campuses briefly, but didn't get a deep sense of the culture at either place. For anyone who's actually attending or applied to these schools, could you share what made you pick one over the other? Things like class size, social scene, clubs, and even the different parts of Chicago they're in would be helpful. Any guidance would be appreciated since I’m pretty stressed about making a decision!
2 months ago
•
6 views
Joana Lepuri
• 2 months ago
Advisor
Both UChicago and Northwestern are top-tier schools with standout programs in economics and political science, but the decision really comes down to the kind of college experience you’re looking for.
UChicago is famous for its rigorous academics and strong intellectual atmosphere. The core curriculum is pretty intense here, and the culture leans heavily toward discussion and theoretical frameworks ("where fun goes to die" is a motto you might hear, though it’s a bit tongue-in-cheek these days). If you love reading, debating theories late into the night, and want to dive deeply into the foundations of your fields, UChicago is ideal. Class sizes can be a bit smaller and more intimate, especially in upper-level seminars. Socially, it’s a little quieter and more cerebral, but clubs are active—Quiz Bowl, Model UN, policy debates, and quirky interest groups abound. The campus is in Hyde Park, which is beautiful but more removed from downtown; you'll rely on public transit if you want to leave campus often.
Northwestern, meanwhile, is known for combining rigorous academics with a more traditional campus experience. The quarter system lets you try more subjects or double-major easily. The vibe is less intense academically—you’ll still be challenged, but there's a stronger emphasis on collaboration and balance. People tend to be social, involved in Greek life, theatre, journalism, and Big Ten athletics, so you’ll find a broader mix of students. Clubs range from economics and politics to music, sports, and entrepreneurship. Evanston is a classic college town with easy access to Chicago proper, so you’ll get both city and campus life. Class sizes are similar to UChicago’s, but some intro courses may be larger at first.
In my experience, I chose Northwestern because I wanted strong academics but also prioritized balance; I loved the proximity to a small town and the city, plus it felt easier to get involved socially right away. A close friend who picked UChicago was genuinely excited by the core curriculum and wanted to be surrounded by people who live and breathe ideas.
If you’re leaning toward pure academics and theory, UChicago will fit you well. If you want a bit broader of a college experience with a strong academic and social balance, Northwestern is probably the better fit. Consider visiting both again if possible, and maybe reach out to current students through admissions ambassador programs for a real sense of daily life.
Both will get you where you want to go career-wise, but your happiness will come down to the campus and community vibe that feels more like you.
UChicago is famous for its rigorous academics and strong intellectual atmosphere. The core curriculum is pretty intense here, and the culture leans heavily toward discussion and theoretical frameworks ("where fun goes to die" is a motto you might hear, though it’s a bit tongue-in-cheek these days). If you love reading, debating theories late into the night, and want to dive deeply into the foundations of your fields, UChicago is ideal. Class sizes can be a bit smaller and more intimate, especially in upper-level seminars. Socially, it’s a little quieter and more cerebral, but clubs are active—Quiz Bowl, Model UN, policy debates, and quirky interest groups abound. The campus is in Hyde Park, which is beautiful but more removed from downtown; you'll rely on public transit if you want to leave campus often.
Northwestern, meanwhile, is known for combining rigorous academics with a more traditional campus experience. The quarter system lets you try more subjects or double-major easily. The vibe is less intense academically—you’ll still be challenged, but there's a stronger emphasis on collaboration and balance. People tend to be social, involved in Greek life, theatre, journalism, and Big Ten athletics, so you’ll find a broader mix of students. Clubs range from economics and politics to music, sports, and entrepreneurship. Evanston is a classic college town with easy access to Chicago proper, so you’ll get both city and campus life. Class sizes are similar to UChicago’s, but some intro courses may be larger at first.
In my experience, I chose Northwestern because I wanted strong academics but also prioritized balance; I loved the proximity to a small town and the city, plus it felt easier to get involved socially right away. A close friend who picked UChicago was genuinely excited by the core curriculum and wanted to be surrounded by people who live and breathe ideas.
If you’re leaning toward pure academics and theory, UChicago will fit you well. If you want a bit broader of a college experience with a strong academic and social balance, Northwestern is probably the better fit. Consider visiting both again if possible, and maybe reach out to current students through admissions ambassador programs for a real sense of daily life.
Both will get you where you want to go career-wise, but your happiness will come down to the campus and community vibe that feels more like you.
Joana Lepuri
Chicago, IL
University of Chicago B.A. in Political Science, Public Policy, 2021 | Loyola University Chicago School of Law J.D., 2027
Experience
7 years