Columbia is a really great school. I never actually lived in the city but a grew up just minutes south of it. I've spent a lot of time downtown and am currently working towards my master's degree at DePaul University on the Northside. Columbia and all major schools in the loop are very safe, but prices are insane as others have stated. You will not need a car; transportation to anywhere you would need to go including both major airports (O'Hare and Midway) is easy. The campus itself is very lively and there is tons to do. When you visit I would recommend posting something on campus looking for roommates. As expensive as things are, you can get a semi-nice place in a good neighborhood with the right amount of people. However, living on campus until you get familiar with the city is a good idea too. I'm not sure how the housing works on campus or if you have to commit for x amount of time. If you and megansmomma get together at all let me know. I would be happy to meet up and give you some tips if you end up coming out this way! I would love to bring Lola (Maltese) and by then I might have my Yorkie too! There are tons of dog-friendly places in the city.
Warning: If you come out here be prepared to gain the freshman 30 rather than 15! We have the greatest, most diverse food in this country...and none of it is healthy! At least you can try to jog it off along the lakefront! |