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Northwestern University Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See Northwestern University reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Northwestern University. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Northwestern University reviews, or contribute your own Northwestern University review if you're a current student there.

  • 36 out of 37 people found this review useful.

    Allison from Port Barrington, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    If you can to learn, you will. The professors don't spoon-feed information - instead, they give you the tools to learn the subjects yourself. Also, just hanging out with people (students, and sometimes students hang out with professors) helps you learn; generally, the students here are smart, and so casual conversation topics sometimes teach just as much as a class lecture.
    Am enjoying being here

    Northwestern offers so much to students that it seems like too much. There's plenty of different social scenes (Greek life is a big one, but you don't have to be in a frat or sorority to be social), plenty of arts and entertainment, hundreds of student groups, opportunities for work, research and internships, volunteer groups, easy transportation, great dorm life... The professors I've had were generally really accessible, too. Again, the problem with all the NU offers is that it's hard for someone to have a job, be in a sport, be in ten extracurriculars, double major, volunteer, do research *and* have a normal social life without getting three hours of sleep and having no time to eat or relax.

    A problem I've encountered is that the course listing is difficult for freshmen. Upperclassmen and declared majors get class registration priority, so freshmen and undeclared majors have slim pickings when it comes to classes. I haven't met anyone who got into all the classes they wanted to.

    I'm ambivalent about the quarter system - it's nice that you only have to take four classes at a time, but when you take a class you like, it's upsetting because it's over so quickly. It's also nice that you get to go back to school in September, but on the other hand, you have to stay around until June.

    It's really easy to get distracted with all of Nortwestern's small faults when you get used to all it has to offer.
    Bang for the buck

    It's an expensive school. My financial aid was great, but I imagine that the people who pay five times as much as I do still enjoy it here. It costs a lot to go here, but there are plenty of perks, like the shuttle services that go to Chicago, shopping centers in Evanston, and across the big campus (the Evanston campus is like almost mile long), the meal plans and fairly decent dining halls (there are six dining halls, but there are a lot of retail locations like Starbucks where you can use your meal plan), the nice dorm life (rooms can be small, but the buildings are nice and generally have a lot of social events)... A lot of people rationalize the price by saying that they're paying for the Northwestern name on their diplomas, but the school would probably be worth it even if it wasn't so prestigious.
    Tips for prospective students

    Push yourself if you can, but do it for the right reasons. The people who enjoy their time the most here aren't the ones who just got straight A's to get into college - they did well because they enjoy doing well. Try to be well-rounded, but maybe concentrate your interests on whatever college you're interested in (for example, those going for the theater program should participate in high school productions if possible, those in engineering should get good grades in math, etc.) Don't limit yourself because you think you can't do it all!
    Great for these types of students

    'Type A' students who like people and aren't shy fit in best here, but plenty of people that I've met here are happily aloof, or they're are average students. If you're great at sports, even better because we have talented teams, but most of the people I know don't play on any teams. Really, there are too many different types of people to generalize all of them; I think most people have found their niche at NU.

  • 19 out of 19 people found this review useful.

    Stefanie from New York

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I came to college to learn lessons beyond the liberal arts. I wanted skills for the preprofessional world alongside a strong liberal arts background. I'm getting that. I'm certainly not saying you won't have to push yourself, but any worthwhile experience requires you to put in the effort.
    Am enjoying being here

    The kids here are talented, smart, intellectual people but no one is uptight. The student body knows how to party like rockstars and still debate political policies over brunch on a Sunday morning. The work is heavy but stimulating and interesting. Professors and TAs alike are incredibly helpful. The students are diverse in ideas and interests. People are NICE. and we're right near CHICAGO, an amazing city. But you'll have an awesome time even if you never leave campus.
    Bang for the buck

    I don't have another experience to compare this too. Northwestern comes with a hefty price tag but the resources, outlets, professors, activities, and student programs are innumerable and incredible. You can make every dollar count if you try.
    Tips for prospective students

    Come visit! Evanston is wonderful and campus is beautiful at first glance and once you get to know the people. Build a resume TRUE TO YOURSELF. Contact a current student to get a feel for the real experience if you can't make it to campus. Talk to the financial aid crew here... they have some great packages!
    Great for these types of students

    Brilliant go-doers, people who take pride in their intellect, students looking for a mix between pre-professional and liberal arts, students who want to go into journalism or engineering. Students who have no idea what they want to do. Students who want to go places and do things. People interested in Ivy academics without Ivy social and psychological pressures. People interested in school spirit. People who want to make a difference in the world.

  • 16 out of 18 people found this review useful.

    Lynne from Cincinnati, OH

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Classes at NU require a lot of hard work, but it is completely worth it. You can get a lot out of most classes as long as you put in the time and the effort. Also, the professors WANT you to do well, and most of them will take the time to help you if you ask.
    Am enjoying being here

    Northwestern has a really eclectic mix of students in attendance, so everyone can find a niche. Of course, the weather in Evanston is terrible--but what can you do?
    Bang for the buck

    Okay, so Northwestern is ridiculously expensive. That said, once you get an education here, you'll eventually even out the difference. Really, though, NU isn't the best at giving out financial aid, especially for people who are middle-of-the-road when it comes to finances. Unless you are really rich, really poor, or an athlete, attending here WILL put strain on your bank account. (NU doesn't give out academic scholarships.)
    Tips for prospective students

    1. Buy a heavy parka. You won't care about the fact that it is bulky and unfashionable when it's -30 degrees and everybody else is wearing one.
    2. Expect to work really hard. There are very few classes that do not require at least significant effort for you to get an A or a B.
    3. Say goodbye to straight As. Once you come here, those are a thing of the past.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who work hard is really my only criteria. There are all types of people at Northwestern--pretty much all personality types can attend here and fit in.

  • 10 out of 10 people found this review useful.

    James from Jacksonville, FL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    There are so many things to do here that one of your biggest worries is finding the time and avoiding schedule conflicts. Of course, you can expect to learn a great deal from one of the best schools on campus. The classes aren't easy by any means, and the professors really know their stuff (many have to; they do research on their respective subjects). You can expect them to know the answer to your question, provided that they understand it. The work is rigorous.

    But college isn't all about the classes; you will learn quite a bit from your peers as well, who come from all different parts of the country and, indeed, the world. I have learned much just from my peers, international and domestic. As long as you're not afraid to talk and ask questions, then you will surely learn a lot here.
    Am enjoying being here

    Definitely, but so far, I don't know about the weather. Being a Southerner, I am used to warmer weather, so this is going to be an eye-opening experience. The campus is pretty nice too, with a variety of architecture (from brutalist to Gothic cathedral)

    All superficial aspects aside, the people here are quite varied. There are many types of intellectuals, and they can all be found here. The problem is finding the people, but once again, if you're not afraid to talk, then you will have no problem testing the waters to find the perfect set of friends. Friends make any situation bearable.
    Bang for the buck

    Northwestern is definitely very expensive, and they're not extremely generous on their financial aid, either. While (most) professors here are great and the facilities amazing, they do overcharge on a lot of things, especially books (don't buy from Norris; everything's overpriced) and food (but what can you do?)

    But, the food's not TOO bad, and it's all-you-can-eat.

    What really matters, however, is the academics. Like I've said before, the professors here know their stuff. While they may not necessarily know how to teach well, you can always ask them questions and they can clarify. The facilities, especially the Technological Institute, are just amazing (once you figure out the maze-like layout)
    Tips for prospective students

    I am the only person from my high school who got into this school, so I don't know advice to give, seeing that I am the only person I know well enough to compare.

    Load up on AP/IB classes if your school offers or requires them, don't slack off. Ever. Bad habits will form and transfer to college.

    Continue your extracurriculars, and build on your longer-running ones. Blah blah blah yadda yadda yadda (all the usual advice that everyone already knows about when applying to colleges).

    Northwestern is expensive! APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS!!! That's one of my biggest regrets; not applying for enough money. Aim for the ones that are delivered to you personally, with no record that Northwestern can find out about (if Northwestern finds out you got a scholarship, they will deduct that amount from your financial aid)
    Great for these types of students

    Intellectual, hard-working, driven, focused, social, curious

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Erin from Novi, MI

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    Academics here are tough; don't expect to breeze through any of your classes. The professors are amazing because they allow you to learn things for yourself instead of just telling you information--not to mention their accreditations and distinguished reputations among other scholars.
    Will enjoy being here

    Northwestern is beautiful and is next to one of the greatest cities in the world. The people are so friendly and enthusiastic and it's going to be a truly wonderful college experience.
    Bang for the buck

    It's really, really expensive. And their meal plans aren't that great. But they do give really good aid, so don't be afraid to apply.
    Tips for prospective students

    Look for outside scholarships--you'll need them, but don't let the cost scare you away from applying.
    Great for these types of students

    Outgoing, intellectually curious, vivacious.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Alex from Phoenix, AZ

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will enjoy being here

    Awesome campus & so close to downtown Chicago - just not sure about the winters.
    Great for these types of students

    Highly motivated individuals!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    B from RVA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I learned more fall quarter--yes quarter (one of the few downsides of my school is that everyone is gone in mid-August!)--than I ever thought I would during my freshman year. Once I became a radio-television-film major (RTVF), I knew that Northwestern was where I was always meant to be, after a rough first 2 quarters. I press buttons, I make movies, I carry ridiculously large and expensive equipment on occasion, and I have never been happier. I would say that most Northwestern students with similarly pre-professional courses of study would agree that Northwestern not only teaches you what you need to know in the real world, but fosters an environment in which you feel that your education IS your future.
    Am enjoying being here

    The four stars are only because I didn't find my way until spring quarter. Before I became an RTVF major, I wasn't sure which classes would interest me and ended up taking a few that were wastes of time. However, this could happen at any college and reflects more on my experience than at the school. The people I have met are so interesting--one of my friends, G., is totally the next Perez Hilton (with more class), and another, A., is a brilliant engineer who is getting a business certificate for fun. As for me, I think film is pretty interesting as far as majors go. Who else gets to say I have a three hour lab, then spend those three hours on lighting and improv?
    Bang for the buck

    Northwestern is expensive, I will be honest. Paying for this school is a struggle for my family, but they are willing to make the sacrifices because they know how much I love my education. It makes me sad to say that financial aid has not been great so far, but our policies seem similar to those of other private universities, so I don't know that negative financial aid experiences are unique to Northwestern.
    Tips for prospective students

    Jump in as soon as you get here! Never sailed? Try out for sailing team. Never thought you'd go Greek? RUSH. The greatest thing about my school is how open-minded and diverse the students are. I know fraternity guys who love their letters, but also work on film sets on the weekend or have been backpacking through Europe with nothing but a Kodak. Even people who seem like college stereotypes (and trust me, I have yet to meet one) are some of the most interesting people you will ever know once you get to know them.
    Great for these types of students

    Open minded, outgoing, quirky, proactive, ambitious.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Lauren from Kenosha, WI

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I am a five-year double-degree in oboe performance and psychology at NU and I have learned a lot in regards to the music curriculum I am learning. However, because it is a structured system where there isn't always an equal focus on both degrees, I have not learned much in the psychology field just yet. I rate this four stars because the things I have learned have improved my oboe playing and knowledge of music immensely but the structure of my schedule wasn't what I was expecting in regards to mainly focusing on music.
    Am enjoying being here

    I really enjoy my time here at Northwestern. Besides the studying that takes up a lot of my day, when you want to get out and do something it is pretty easy to find a good time! I frequently go to one of our really nice gyms on campus. The facilities are great and all of the machines are newer. I also frequently visit Chicago, mainly to see the Chicago Symphony Orchestra perform. It's certainly nice to be just a train ride away from the best orchestra in the United States! In general, everyone has been very nice here and the teachers are all supportive. I also love the nature around campus. It almost has a secret garden feel because there are so many trees and little paths. The lake fill has the most breathtaking view of the Chicago skyline and the lake itself is certainly not a bad thing! Everyone loves to go down to the lake when it's nice for a game of frisbee or just to lay out. I truly believe it would be hard for someone to dislike Northwestern. It is a great environment to learn and grow as a person.
    Bang for the buck

    I would say the price of attending Northwestern is a tad too high for what you receive. I understand that in order to get world-famous professors, the cost of tuition must go up. However, the dorms are not as great as I would have expected. Also, the food certainly is not fantastic by any means. It is a taste you have to get used to...I've labeled it disappointment.
    I definitely think the costs of tuition needs to be lowered but I know that attending a great university like Northwestern is certain to have a high price tag attached.
    Tips for prospective students

    I would say the best thing to remember is that everyone is coming from almost the same situation as you are and that everyone is adjusting. This is the first time most of us have ever been on our own and with that comes a whole list of new responsibilities. It is okay to be nervous about everything but it is also a very exciting process and one of the best times of your life. You can trust me when I say things will become easier as the year goes on. In order to overcome the nerves and overwhelming aspect of it, try to go into it with arms open and make the best of your new situation! The only way to overcome this new environment is to get out in it and see what it has in store for you.
    Great for these types of students

    Northwestern is great for students who are willing to work hard and study most of the day away. Also, if you're a music student, you have a lot of practicing ahead of you! (Trust me, it all pays off!)

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Melisa from Prospect, KY

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments

  • 0 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Kelly from Bellaire, TX

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    I am so excited to learn in a college setting, and I think Northwestern is the best place to do just that! Pretty much anything is possible at this school, and I'm excited to attend because there is more than one type of student attending.

  • 0 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Matthew from Saint Augustine, FL

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    there' so many opportunities to learn here, the freshman seminars are looking AMAZING for this year
    Will enjoy being here

    who doesn't love chicago? and if you don't like big cities, evanston is an adorable suburb!
    Bang for the buck

    free ride!
    Tips for prospective students

    check out the programs offered
    Great for these types of students

    students who want to learn journalism, theatre, go greek, love other people, etc.

  • 6 out of 36 people found this review useful. 4 people found this inaccurate.

    Mahjeed from Mather, CA

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    doing the ap subjects and core subjects
    Great for these types of students

    well rounded

  • Christopher from Orlando, FL

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Strong Academics, Near Chicago, Frigid winters.
    Tips for prospective students

    Unless the idea of becoming an icicle appeals to you, you might want to bring a variety of heavy winter gear for when it gets quite cold. A bike is also handy for getting around campus.
    Dorm Life

    There are good dorms and bad dorms, both in facilities and atmosphere. The Residential Colleges tend to be closer knit, but they are also small and more specialized, and lack a dining hall.
    Food and Dining

    Evanston and the North Shore is the dining capital of Chicago. Name a genre of food: you can find it here. As for dining on campus, it's a little above average.
    What to do for fun

    Evanston has a plethora of bars and restaurants, including a great icecream shop a block from campus. Most offer some form of wildcard advantage. On campus, Norris is a center of activity, and there's always the Frat Quad if you want a party.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Painting the Rock: The large boulder near University Hall has been painted and re-painted hundreds of times.
    The Dance Marathon: A constant dance-fest in the spring that is the largest student-run philanthropy event in the nation.
    Dillo Day: A massive music festival that gets thrown during the spring.

  • Mark from Leawood, KS

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    If you like the weather, a fantastic campus and great place to stay. Brilliant academics with good professors, and lots of access to a very involved city. Of course it is college, so the nightlife is always great.
    Tips for prospective students

    It is going to be an expensive education, but the support as well as the academics you will receive will be of near unrivaled quality.
    Academic Rigor

    Depending on what classes you have, the professors can either be amazing or sometimes nonexistent. However, most classes at least have some involvement with the professor, and the academic content itself is fantastic and rather challenging.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are pretty good, but the important thing is what happens in them. And there's plenty to do there, especially in the larger rooms.
    Food and Dining

    Don't go to the Foster-Walker complex for food, but many of the other dining halls provide good food, regardless of what your food preferences are. Plus, there are plenty of shops and restaurants on and around the campus.
    What to do for fun

    There are plenty of parties, and if you don't like downtown Evanston, then just take the L to get to downtown Chicago, where you will never run out of things to do regardless of your interests.
    Bang for the buck

    Look, it is very expensive. That's a fact. But if you can get a decent financial aid package, then it is definitely worth attending.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    One of my favorite places to study or just get some peace and quiet is on the concrete slabs near the Lake. Something about the water and the soft rush of wind is near-bliss.
    Great for these types of students

    If you want a great jumping point for any future career but also like to have a great time, then this is for you.
    Clubs and Activities

    There's literally everything available to do both on and off campus. And if you can't find what you're looking for, just go and start your own club. It is very easy to do. In fact, it's heavily encouraged!
    Greek Life

    There are plenty of the fraternities and sororities here for any type of person. The great part is that rush starts during Winter session, which takes the pressure off for the first quarter that you're new to the school. Another aspect is that everyone at Northwestern is already academically orieted, so the Greek life pertains more to non-academic aspects of college life.
    Campus Safety

    Pretty good. The Northwestern police are always on call, but I haven't heard of any major dangers just within my circle of friends. Just make sure to keep your wits about you whenever you're in parts of downtown Evanston or Chicago.

  • Patricia from Bridgeview, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Never met so many dedicated teachers. They strive to make the students the best that they can be...oops I think that is the Army's slogan.
    Tips for prospective students

    You won't be disappointed!
    What to do for fun

    They offer all kinds of special occasion happenings all thru the year.

  • Meghan from Evanston, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Northwestern is a prestigious university with a wonderful reputation. The quarter system and curriculum are challenging, but there are several fun ways to relieve stress on campus. Located near chicago, Northwestern has a great location on the lake.
    Tips for prospective students

    GPA is not the only important thing. Try to gain experience in leadership experience, and write a creative essay.
    What to do for fun

    Evanston is full of great restaurants and has some fun bars. Chicago is only a 35-45 minute train ride away.
    Bang for the buck

    It is very expensive.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The Rock is painted by student groups to advertise for upcoming events or clubs on campus. Deering Library, much older than the Main Library looks similar to Hogwarts from Harry Potter.
    Great for these types of students

    It is great for students who want a challenging and rewarding education while also having great networking opportunities in the Chicago area. It is a school for nerds who still know how to have fun.
    Clubs and Activities

    There really is something for everyone. Try to get involved and stick with it.
    Greek Life

    Greek Life plays a large role on campus, but it is still the minority. The great thing about Northwestern's Greek Community is that it is a lot more variable than the stereotypes of fraternities and sororities. There is a place for everyone who wants to join and no hazing!
    Campus Safety

    The campus is well lit. There have been some instances of robbery close by off-campus.

  • Samantha from Tampa, FL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    It's both an academic and creative haven, a community for all people who want to learn. It's a little peace of paradise in Evanston, Illinois where everyone went through the same process to get in. It can be anything you make it, which for most people is amazing.
    Tips for prospective students

    Work hard, because in the end it will be worth all of your hard work.
    Academic Rigor

    It is what you make of it, but there are definitely classes that challenge the mind and push students to their fullest potential.
    Dorm Life

    It's a community, although the rooms aren't very big. The dorms that have been renovated are obviously better than those that haven't been and some don't have overhead lights or air conditioning.
    Food and Dining

    There are a lot of options, including vegan and vegetarian. Towards the end of the quarter, choices get repetitive, but it's overall pretty good.
    What to do for fun

    See a piece of theatre! At least one show, usually more, goes up every weekend. If it's warm enough (or even if it's not), come see the view of Chicago from the Lakefill. Evanston is also a really wonderful place to go eat, just about any kind of cuisine you could want.
    Bang for the buck

    For me, the school really generous with financial aid. I have found this to be true across the student population.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    We paint a giant rock over and over, but you have to guard it first. Also, along the lakefill are these giant rocks which also get painted. Dillo Day is a concert that goes up at the end of May and lasts all day. Primal Scream happens the Sunday right before finals week when everyone goes outside and yells.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who enjoy learning, students who have constantly pushed themselves, students who love a small city right next to a giant metropolitan area
    Clubs and Activities

    ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING! We even have a happiness club!
    Greek Life

    It exists.
    You can be a part of it and it's great. However, if you aren't a part of it, you aren't missing anything.
    Campus Safety

    If you choose to make use of the buses and SafeRide services, it's very safe. However, a lot of people make the decision to walk alone at night, and that's when things stop being safe.

  • Sammie

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Northwestern offers a lot of opportunities in pretty much any area, academic or otherwise. The school and town are pretty expensive. Some great professors teach some great classes, which make it worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Get involved early on - try new things. It's easier to leave behind things you don't like than to jump in late. Try a little bit of everything, don't be afraid to look outside your major.
    Academic Rigor

    Work hard, play harder.
    Dorm Life

    I loved my dorm but the building and furniture were very outdated (I got lucky and ended up in a place with great people and a fun environment).
    Food and Dining

    Decent, but overpriced.
    What to do for fun

    Nightlife is only okay, not a huge party school but you can usually find something to do.

  • LITHer

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    In all honesty, I love this school and Heavenston (what we college students endearingly refer to the town that has taken care of us by taking away The Keg, not taking away the Brothel Law, and where Taco Bell closes sadly before 1 am). The people here are genuine, friendly, and everyone has some oddity about them, which makes it all the more interesting!
    Tips for prospective students

    We Northwesterners LOVE prospies, as long as you aren't on one of the tour guides. Definitely sit in on a class, don't come during finals week, and jaywalk as much as you want on Sheridan so you'll fit in. Do an overnight stay, just make sure you end up at Allison Hall, Elder Hall, Slivka, or Bobb if you're feeling adventurous.
    Academic Rigor

    It's hard. Period. If you make it in here, just remember: everyone is either on your level or above. You, my lucky friend, are probably average for once in your life. It takes time getting used it. And the quarter system is stuffing 15/16 weeks of material into 10 weeks, 3 times a year. You learn to love it and hate it at the same time. Midterms come at you almost every week. (I'm pre-med, so maybe that's why)
    Dorm Life

    Some dorms are overdue for a renovation (Jones, CRC, ISRC, SMQ, NMQ), but others are up to par with hotels like Allison, Slivka, Elder, Kemper, and Goodrich. The residential college system is helpful for some people (Willard is somewhat cult-ish, Chapinites love playing board games).
    Food and Dining

    Allison food is the BEST on campus, except breakfast. Sargeant is the only dining hall on North Campus that all undergraduates can go to (I've never seen sophomores in Elder's dining hall). There's a lot of options for Halal, Kosher, Vegan, and Vegetarian too!
    What to do for fun

    There's Heavanston to meander around, a club for anything imaginable, the ocean (Lake Michigan), the lakefill, and the friends you'll make to pass endless amounts of time with. Find the tunnels, trek through Tech.
    Bang for the buck

    Northwestern Meme: What if tuition is free, and T-SHIRTS cost $50 grand?
    it's expensive.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    THE ROCK. you must paint it! or the rocks by the lake.
    Great for these types of students

    straight-A, overachiever, can balance social life, academics, and clubs all at the same time.
    Greek Life

    It's a private school, so remember, don't expect wild things like at public schools. But for top 20 private universities, and compared to UChicago, it's a party school. Almost 36% of people here are in Greek life; Lodge is dead, so the top 3 frat positions are up. I didn't rush (I hate the idea of living with 50+ girls honestly), but a lot of my friends are in frats and sororities. It's a time commitment, and may or may not affect your grades.

  • Timothy from Illinois

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    northwestern is a academically prestigious midwestern school with big 10 athletics as well as proximity to a world-class city. evanston is a nice college town that offers the amenities that any college student could ask for. the university gives students the tools and resources for a diverse study body to succeed.
    Tips for prospective students

    prospective students should be prepared to be challenged academically and to heave to deal with a long and cold winter. also, avail yourself to the myriad ways to further your academic and cultural education at school and in chicago.
    Academic Rigor

    the body of work can be substantial, but it is very managable if given the right amount of time to do.
    Dorm Life

    dorms are segregated into opposite end of campus. there are north campus dorms and south campus dorms, not all of which provide students with all the amenities that a student would expect. nevertheless, some dorms are very nice and are in close proximity to different places around campus.
    Food and Dining

    sodexo food service has much to improve upon, but it is not very different from the expected fare at any college cafeteria.
    What to do for fun

    going into the city can be a great opportunity if taken advantage of, but evanston offers many chances for recreation, too. joining clubs, sports teams, or the greek system are popular choices.
    Bang for the buck

    the school is challenging and the promise of a northwestern degree is an alluring prospect which can pay dividends upon graduation and entering the job market.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    painting the rock, the finals primal scream, and the flood of purple on campus on football game days are popular.
    Great for these types of students

    northwestern is great for an array of different people. the school can foster to people who are bookworms, artsy, sports fans, or just the general ambitious teenager who is looking for a worthwhile challenge in college.
    Clubs and Activities

    there are a ton of opportunities for students to get involved in anything that piques their interests. from the happiness club to intramural sports, everyone can take part in nu campus life.
    Greek Life

    greek life on campus is very popular on campus. as a member, i have met great people within the system and can see all its advantages as well as its flaws. nu greek life is great for a social person who wants a great network of people around them or good opportunities to participate in philanthropic work. the system, however, can be rather isolating if one does not make the conscious decision to branch out to other aspects of campus life.
    Campus Safety

    campus is generally a safe place with a vigilant student body and the campus saferide system which can pick you up by appointment. however, a recent string a robberies very close to campus have called into question the safety of students on and around campus.

  • Carrie from Saint Louis, MO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    it's challenging work, one of the best educations you can receive, and full of pretty awesome people.
    Dorm Life

    depends on where you live, but i'm in a residential college and i enjoy the community feel.
    Food and Dining

    it varies by dining hall, but overall it's not bad.

  • Erica from Bay Head, NJ

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    Does anyone know of any certain things the admissions offices are looking for in an application to Medill or Communications?

  • Amanda from Evanston, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I have nothing to compare it to, but I would say I am learning quite a bit. It is a bit different from high school in the way you learn though
    Am enjoying being here

    It is a great atmosphere but not a big school atmosphere but there are days when it comes closer to it
    Bang for the buck

    It is one of the most expensive schools out there...I feel like the professors could be a little better for the amount of money invested
    Tips for prospective students

    Learn the stuff, don't expect professors to give you the grade
    Great for these types of students

    Want to learn, but still have some fun. You have to want to put in the effort

  • Ruchika from MT Prospect, IL

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    Northwestern is one of the few colleges that have a 6 year straight med program.

  • Matthew from Gurnee, IL

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will enjoy being here

    Cant wait to go to NU. Go wildcats