1. It Is Not The Traditional College Experience
Going to school in the middle of the city is entirely different than going to a a normal state school. There is no huge campus with a quad, it is not surrounded by corn, and Greek Life isn't nearly as prevalent. In fact, if you go to school downtown, (Columbia and Roosevelt, just to name a couple) your campus is nothing more than just a few buildings.
2. College Sports At Your School Are Barely A Thing, If At All.
Most schools in Chicago do have sports teams, but the student bodies of these schools show little to no interest in them. Not to say there isn't any school spirit, but there is next to a 0% chance that you will ever see a packed arena for a Basketball game.
3. The CTA Is A Lifesaver.
Every college student in Chicago can attest to this. Our universities provide these awesome things called U-Passes, in which for a semester-long fee, we get unlimited rides on all public transportation in the city. Trying to get to Lincoln Park from Downtown? Just 15 minutes on the Brown Line. Are you a Depaul or Loyola student trying to get to the Loop? 25 minutes on the Red Line. Wherever you need to go, there is a CTA Train or Bus that will get you there. It's been said that Chicago has the most efficient and well organized urban transportation system in the country. I believe it.
4. In Speaking Of The CTA.....You Never Know What You're Going To Get.
Chicago is a huge city, with a huge public transportation system. As a result, MANY diverse characters ride the train system. If you ride the 'L' trains on a consistent basis, you're bound to run into some pretty crazy things. Personally, I've encountered someone who forced open the train door with his hands while it was going full speed, as well as a fight in which 3 people got arrested. It seems like everybody has at least one crazy story about something they've seen while riding the CTA. It should be noted that you should always be careful of your surroundings while on board!
5. Devil Dawg's Is Everything.
Meeting up with friends for a cheap, delicious meal? Devil Dawg's. Taking a late night study break and need something to refuel? Devil Dawg's. Want a true Chicago hot dog? Devil Dawg's. This restaurant is perfect for any situation. You won't understand its true greatness until you try it for yourself!
6. Living In Chicago On A College Students' Budget Is Basically Impossible.
As with any big city, Chicago has unlimited options when it comes to food, shopping, and entertainment. From professional sports teams, to the arts, to dining options that will make you salivate, having to be constantly reminded that we cannot splurge as much as we would like to is quite a hassle.
7. Trying To Keep Your Weight Down Is Impossible When Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Is A Thing.
This one is pretty self explanatory. Sorry, New York, Chicago has better Pizza any day of the week.
8. There Is Always Something To Do.
It is impossible to be bored in a city like Chicago. In a city filled with popular sports teams, landmark museums, live music and theatre, countless eateries, and so much more, there is always something to do here!
9. You Always Have Your Student ID On You, Because You Can Get Discounts.
Chicago is quite nice to its college students! In the South Loop neighborhood, for example, which is basically a giant college campus, a lot of the restaurants and shops cater their entire business towards the college students that live in the area. As a result, they give discounts as high as 30-40% on food or merchandise just for having your ID. Not bad!
10. You Wouldn't Trade It For The World.
Going to school in a major city like Chicago is a very unique experience. It's nothing compared to attending a state university in the middle of a cornfield. City living is not for everybody, but for those who it is for, it is truly a life changing experience!
