I'm considering applying to Illinois Tech, but I've never been to Chicago. What is the campus like? Is it easy to get around the city from there? I'd really appreciate insights on dorms and student life!
Sure, I'd love to share some insights on Illinois Tech's campus and its surroundings.
Illinois Tech is located in the Bronzeville neighborhood of Chicago, a historic region with rich cultural significance particularly in Black history and arts. Compared to some urban campuses that blend into the city, Illinois Tech has a defined campus with a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Mies van der Rohe, one of the great architects of the 20th century, designed many of the buildings on campus, giving it a unique feel.
The campus has a compact design, which allows for quick and easy access to your classes, residential halls, and other facilities. Some students find it a perfect mix of having a contained, standalone campus while also being situated in a large, bustling city.
Traveling around the city from Illinois Tech is fairly convenient. The campus is a short walk from the 'L' (Chicago's elevated train system), which can quickly get you to other parts of the city. Illinois Tech is close to the Loop, where you'll find plenty of shopping, theaters, museums, and restaurants. Also, the beach is nearby for those warmer days.
As for dorms, a range of options are available. Some of them have wonderful city views, and being an urban campus, space might be limited compared to what you might find at a suburban or rural college. However, the school has done a great job maximizing the space and providing students with all the needed amenities.
Regarding student life, Illinois Tech has a range of student organizations and club sports. It might not have the bustling social scene that a larger college might offer, but it does offer a close-knit community feel. Students also take advantage of all that Chicago has to offer off campus.
Please keep in mind that personal fit is crucial. It's important to get a sense of whether you prefer smaller, close-knit environments or larger, more bustling campuses. Visiting a campus, if you have the capability, is often a valuable experience. If you can't visit in person, take advantage of virtual tours and informational sessions to get a more accurate feel of the campus culture. Hope this helps you in your college journey!
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