Top universities in Illinois?

I'm a high school junior, getting an early start on my college search. I'm particularly interested in universities in Illinois as they seem quite promising. Can someone share a list of top universities in Illinois that I should consider, and maybe a little bit about what makes them stand out?

Sure, I can provide some insight on top universities in Illinois. There are quite a few renowned universities in the state, recognized for their academic rigor, quality of faculty, research opportunities, and more.

1. University of Chicago: Known for its competitive atmosphere, rigorous liberal arts and sciences curriculum, and top programs in economics, business, and more. Notable aspects of the UChicago experience include the House System and Core Curriculum.

2. Northwestern University: Renowned for its programs in journalism, music, theatre, and law. It has a unique quarter system - instead of semesters - which enables students to explore a wide range of subjects. Northwestern's campus is on the shores of Lake Michigan, which provides stunning views and recreational opportunities.

3. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: It's a flagship public university known especially for its programs in engineering and computer science. The university has a strong research focus, with opportunities across all areas of study.

4. Illinois Institute of Technology: Known for its strong programs in engineering and architecture. IIT also has a focus on technology and innovation, with numerous research and internship opportunities in these areas.

5. Loyola University Chicago: It's a Jesuit university known for its programs in nursing, business, and biology. Its Lake Shore campus on Lake Michigan provides a kind of suburban tranquility in the city.

6. DePaul University: DePaul is the largest Catholic university in the country. It has strong programs in business, communications, and theater. DePaul is known for its emphasis on service learning and community engagement.

Each of these universities has a unique culture and academic focus, so I recommend researching each of them further to see where you think you would fit in best. Visit their websites, take virtual tours, attend virtual information sessions, and try to talk to current students if you can. Keep in mind your academic and personal interests, career goals, and preferences for things like class size, location, and campus culture.