The city of Chicago plays a powerful role in the development of College students—as scholars, citizens, and individuals. Chicago is more than our home: it is our laboratory, classroom, civic school, and inspiration. Students gain opportunities to invest their creative energies in the city.
There are broad benefits of studying in one of the world’s greatest and most vital cities.
With 2.7 million residents, 77 distinct communities, and a diverse economy to encounter, Chicago is home to thriving industries in business, politics, medicine, and public policy—and incredible arts and architecture. Here, College students gain meaningful experience as they become residents and contributors to a diverse and fascinating city.
Civic Engagement Opportunities
College students contribute to the broader urban community that we inhabit and to learn from the many perspectives that animate Chicago. The University supports a wide variety of off-campus learning opportunities and volunteer offerings to encourage this engagement.
Community outreach programs and initiatives, such as the Neighborhood Schools Program, and the Civic Knowledge Project, connect College students with nearby organizations and schools. These and other programs allow students to learn about the life of neighboring communities and residents and to contribute the talents and skills they’ve gained on campus.
Student Life
College students also have immediate access to the city’s burgeoning arts and culture community, with free and discounted admission to more than 70 venues with the ArtsPass and unlimited rides on CTA with the U-Pass, both of which are included with a UChicago ID.
Research and Coursework
Among the shared motivations of College students is the calling to confront society’s most complex problems, many of which present themselves in urban environments. Immediate access to Chicago allows College students to observe, analyze, and understand a diverse city and its residents in close proximity. Living and studying in Chicago gives students increased opportunities to conduct compelling research, whether it be through the Public Policy practicum, the Chicago Studies program, the College Center for Research and Fellowships, or other courses and resources. Students gain invaluable experience navigating historic collections and archival materials located throughout the city in order to build their scholarly arguments.
Internships and Careers
Each year, more than 1,200 undergraduates take part in internships in Chicago, while several hundred more engage in research assistantships and other employment. Regardless of a student’s academic background, resources like UChicago Career Advancement help them gather the training and experience necessary to be successful in their careers.