Jim
One of the best things about the University of Illinois is there is so many opportunities down here take advantage of. This is an excellent bridge between high school and the real world when it comes to experience and maturing as we grow older. There are many clubs, sports and activities to join or learn about outside of the classroom. The one thing I would change is the administration seems more bent on being politically correct rather than using good judgment and common sense when deciding on certain issues. Our total student population is around 40,000 people and honestly I think it is a perfect size. It is big enough to meet new people and get away from others as well. I split my time equally between my fraternity house, our gym, class and our school newspaper. Yes, I believe Champaign/Urbana, Illinois is a college town. I think our administration spends more time worrying about being politically correct and being super sensitive to everything and not using common sense judgment. The biggest controversy would have to be the retirement of the Chief. Yes there is a lot of school pride because there is a lot to be said for this University and most of the students and faculty here. There are many underground tunnels that spread all over the University grounds, a lot of times people can gain access to them but are subject to arrest if caught. The one experience I will always remember would have to be the first girl I dated here on campus. The most frequent complaints I here have to do with professors and how they can't teach in the classroom or Teaching Assistants and their lack of profession.
Tate
University of Illinois has way too many whiny liberals who want people to feel bad about everything they do. They want people to believe the war is about oil and that every white male is a racist. They cry far too often about nothing, they don't know where daddy's money comes from and don't care. They think global warming is real, and they think soldiers of the US Army are criminals even though they are better people than any student at this institution will ever be. Many of them will see the light when they graduate and have to live in the real world, but many others never will. This university trains people to depend on the government and not to think and work for themselves.
Catherine
I love University of Illinois. Although I was extremely nervous about the large size before I came here, I really had nothing to worry about. I came from a smaller high school, and still did not end up feeling overwhelmed about the size of campus. Also, there are many ways to make U of I seem smaller if needed. For example, Greek life is very important on this campus, and there are a variety of different clubs, from broomball to underwater basket weaving to volunteering. Because of the diversity of activities, everyone can find their niche.
Rob
urbana champaign is a college town. biggest recent controversy is the chief and our mascot. there is alot of school pride, but not enough that you would get mobbed for wearing the sweatshirt of a different college. most frequent complaint is the food from other students, but i think the food is fine.
Andy
Going greek is probably my most proudest accomplishment since I got on campus. I think that the ethnic greeks, Latino, Black, etc, get along fairly well. We support each other for the most part.
John
A great thing about this school is that it is big. Being able to associate with so many people and make so many connecting while still in school is a major plus. In addition, having the largest greek community (in terms of chapters) in the country adds to these connections. Being greek allows opens the doors to so many more opportunities that would never be possible if you weren't greek. And the fact that being greek is encouraged, and respected adds to the college experience that is so crucial. There also is alot of school pride, we care about this university, and bond together. It also helps we have big time sports programs to unite all of us. In terms of a college town, this one is great. There is a great bar scene, enhancing social life around campus, and the party scene.
Grant
Why Illinois is Great
The best thing about Illinois is the incredible college atmosphere it provides: great classes, Greek Life, student organizations (over ~1800), great personal life, extracurriculars, and limitless philanthropies and service events. Sounds like a ton, but it really provide you with a place to blosm. My schedule is jammed packed with things to do, almost overwhelming at times, but do not be overwhelmed by the school's size. It may seem that you are just one number in 40,000 students, but you must make it not this way to really achieve in college. This means you must be the dedicated student that you make yourself out to be. Learn time managment, study skills, and good habits and you'll do great.
Kelly
The best thing about the university is the campus. It's beautiful, so many resources.
I would change the amount of minority students admitted. The numbers are ridiculously low.
The school is huge, but for me its just right.
A lot of people are shocked I go to this university. It is a big ten university which says a lot about me.
Most of my time is spent in my apartment or at the library studying.
College town..I love it!
Illinois administration...hmmm...they don't really do what the students want, it's what they find suitable.
Recent controversy would be the chief and racism.
Yes, plenty of school pride.
Unusual, well yes. For a school that prides itself on the wonderful education they provide I would expect a wonderful education. A lecture of 700 students DOES NOT PROVE TO BE A GOOD EDUCATION.
Frequent student complains is racism, tuition, dorm food (which I love, but I hear complaints way too much).
Kevin
Overall I'd say that Illinois is your quintessential college movie experience, the college town that you imagine when you are planning on leaving home, the place that feels like home even though its nothing like where you're from. The school itself is split between Urbana and Champaign but I spent the majority of my time in Champaign so I'm biased of course. I played hockey at U of I for the club team which on campus is treated like a D1 sport here in lieu of an actual D1 team. Champaign has it all, by which I mean that is where Assembly Hall, Memorial Stadium, the new fitness center, the mall, Green St., most Frats, and all the bars are located. Illinois is a big enough school that if you're not all party all the time and you come without friends you will eventually find your niche. What they don't put on your acceptance letter (and they probably should) is that at heart Illinois is Sports, Greek, Academics (not in that order). If you don't like sports or the color orange Illinois might not be for you. If you don't like the greek system (a lot) I can tell you now you will eventually run into it on campus and Illinois might not be for you. Lastly if you don't know how to balance your time well, the combination of freedom, cheap alcohol, and a ridiculous work load from your classes will put you on your ass and out of school fast. In general if you want school spirit, a good job when you graduate, and to have the time of your life then come to Illinois. If you're anti social, undisciplined, or have a vendetta against alcohol, Illinois might not be for you.
Emily
U of I is the perfect combination of a big and small school. For example, even though the U of I has a total of 40,000 people enrolled, the College of Education is only 250 students. So while I have the opportunity to be apart of the 40,000 student body, I also have a more initimate relationship with the people in my college.
Campus town is great because there's always so much going on. On a nice day there'll be people walking down Green Street going to lunch and on a weekend night there are people out going to the bars. There's always something going on.