We Are Illinois

Introduction
A big rumor exists that our school is "too big" for many people. During my time in high school I almost didn't even consider U of I because of other people complaining that it was so big. However, its anything but that. After a month or two you start to realize you know so many people and you are glad there are so many people to meet and that you can always be making new friends <b>(Editor's note: this reviewer's opinion aside, U of I does have one of the largest student enrollments in the nation)</b>. I chose this school after I visited and saw how beautiful the campus is and also just how at home I felt. If you're an outgoing person looking for a great education, this is definitely the place.

Campus Life and Social Life
Social life at U of I is huge. We have the largest Greek system in the country, so once you are a part of that, the possibilities are endless! There is ALWAYS something to do, whether it be an apartment party, Frat party, or people crowding the bars. The 8 main bars to choose from allow your nights to not become repetitive. And the dorm life is also super-social. There are so many clubs on campus you can't even count that high and if you don't have one you want to join, you can just make your own! Sports is another big thing, especially basketball. There is SO much pride for our team and school its unbelieveable. The football games even are still crowded even though we don't have the best team. Academics
Academics is great. Many programs here are the top in the country, especially engineering and business. I am in Advertising and its also one of the best, a great feeder into Chicago for a real job after graduation. Professors come in all shapes and sizes, some suck and some are amazing. The TA's also vary. Many are foreign which makes understanding them a tad bit difficult, but they are all very into what they teach. I've had professors teach class on the Quad outside on a nice day, sit indian-style on their desk telling life stories, and made class worth attending.

Student Body
Most students are from the Midwest, and a large part of that group is form Chicago. Those who are from Chicago and surrounding areas find this a great aspect because you have a lot in common with each other. Those who aren't tend to find it annoying when someone asks where from Chicago they are from. But there are also a good mix of other out-of-staters and everyone gets along, Midwesterners are known for their kindness! The typical student cannot really be described, but they are a party-animal but somehow also pulls off a great GPA and really cares about their education.

In Closing...
Illinois is amazing, everyone that goes here has endless pride for the school. We're smart and we know it, and while many distinguished people have come before us there are many more to come from here! I mean, let's be honest, Hugh Hefner is an alumni, what else do you need to hear?