Amazing

Introduction
The University of Illinois is huge. If you are coming from a small town, expect your first days to be clueless and let yourself explore. All the kids from suburban Chicago came with 50 of their closest friends, but don't be intimidated by them, they are still in the same boat as you.

If you want an intimate experience with teachers and other students, I wouldn't choose U of I unless you're going to work hard to seek out one on one time with professors in freshman Learning Communities and Discovery courses. These programs are great and I would highly suggest these. I am still close friends with the people I met through those classes.

Campus Life and Social Life
My personal experience with living in private certified housing is that it's not true campus life. I would suggest living in the University dorms, you get more information, more access, and much better food then in places like Bromley. The six pack dorms are the most fun and are conveniently located right next to IMPE, and the quad is a short walk away. The 26 pack buses also come by every 5 minutes and the 22 Illini every 10 minutes, so even if you are lazy it won't take long to get to class. The 22 runs almost 24 hours, and it gets you close to bars at night. Advertisement
Academics
The more specific majors are going to have more personal opportunities. In LAS, the advisors only give you general information and you are left to your own devices to make you sure you take the right classes and get out in four years. Speech Communication classes range from tough and a lot of work, to some that are pretty much a joke and filled with athletes. Also watch out for political science large lectures, the TAs are not as helpful as one would hope. Try to take smaller sections as a freshman if it is in your major.

Student Body
Most of the students are from Chicago and you learn this really quick. IF you are from "downstate" they have never heard of your town, but don't feel bad, in the next year you will find the people you connect to in the many groups and activities that U of I offers. Most students are into the bar scene and greek life, Christian organizations, or are engineering, math, or science majors. You don't have to fit into one of those categories however, because there are so many things you can do with people who are interested in the same things you are. Try one thing, or try everything, but don't feel like you have to try anything at all.

In Closing...
Most students who transfer do so after their freshman year, but those who have considered it and decide to stay are forever glad that they did. As hopeless at it may seem at such a large school, you will fit in because everyone fits in in their own unique way. There isn't a certain way to dress, or certain classes you have to take, or even certain clubs you have to join. Although the greek community is huge here, it won't make or break your social life or social career. In fact, it might set you apart from everyone else and make your campus life tailored to exactly what you want to get out of college.