Hi all! I'm considering applying to colleges in Illinois next year. Just as a fun question, do any of the colleges there have ghost stories or haunted reputations? I'm a bit of a sucker for a good spooky tale, so any shares would be appreciated!
Oh, definitely! Most college campuses have their share of ghost stories, and those in Illinois are no exception.
Starting with University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, there are quite a few chilling tales. The most famous one is probably the English Building. It was once a women's dormitory and legend has it that a student drowned in the pool located in the building. Students now report hearing strange noises, spotting apparitions, and even witnessing doors and windows opening and closing on their own!
Another spooky story hails from Illinois State University. At the Williams Hall, it's said to be haunted by the spirit of Angeline Vernon Milner, the university's first librarian. She devoted her life to the university's library and some believe her spirit hasn't left the building. Stories include books mysteriously falling off the shelves or being mischievously rearranged.
And finally, at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, there are stories about Wheeler Hall. It's said to be home to a spectral "little boy" who has been seen running in the halls or heard giggling.
These colleges also happen to be great academic institutions, so if you end up applying for them also focus on their educational programs in addition to the ghost stories! Remember while the spooky tales give a fun edge to the college experience, your overall goal is to find a college that fits you academically and personally.
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