Pros and cons of attending UIC?

I'm considering the University of Illinois Chicago and want to weigh the pros and cons. What are the standout advantages or potential drawbacks of going to UIC? Any insight from current or former students would be great!

Sure, I can help provide some perspective on the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC).

Let's start with some potential advantages:

1. Urban campus: One of the significant benefits of UIC is its location. Being in Chicago offers an urban college experience with plenty of things to see and do nearby. It puts you near an array of cultural, entertainment, and networking opportunities that students at more remote campuses often miss out on.

2. Strong programs: UIC is well known for its strong programs, particularly in fields such as Health Sciences (Pharmacy, Public Health), Business, and Engineering. If you're interested in one of these areas, UIC could provide rigorous training and plenty of resources.

3. Diversity: UIC is also known for its diverse student body. This diversity can provide a rich learning environment, where students can learn from classmates with different backgrounds and experiences.

4. Research opportunities: UIC provides numerous research opportunities for undergraduate students, especially in the sciences. If this is an area of interest for you, these opportunities could be beneficial.

Now, for the potential drawbacks:

1. Class size: Some students have felt that the school's larger size sometimes translates into large class sizes, particularly in lower-level or popular classes. Depending on your learning style, this could be a factor to consider.

2. Campus and facilities: While some students appreciate the urban campus, others might find it lacking the traditional collegiate "campus feel," with green spaces and historical buildings. Besides, some students have mentioned that some buildings or facilities might be slightly outdated.

3. Limited "college town" feel: Unlike some college campuses that dominate their towns, UIC shares Chicago with several other schools and countless businesses. This can lead to a less "collegiate" feel.

4. Financial Considerations: While UIC's tuition rates are comparable to most other large, public universities, living in Chicago can be expensive. Be sure to consider the cost of living as part of your overall budget.

In the end, a lot of this will come down to personal preference. I would recommend you visit the campus, if possible, to get a feel for the atmosphere and see if it might be a good fit for you.