<p>Some of the recurring issues raised have been bothering me. They indicate a strong drinking problem, and suggest that a non-drinker like myself would have trouble fitting in. Also, it looks like there isn't much diversity and that as an Asian, I might be discriminated against.</p>
<p>Now, all of this is quite contrary to everything else I've read about this school: 'there are big drinkers, but everybody has their place' and blah blah, but the large number of negative reviews has made me give my choice a hard re-think. So this is basically me asking: are the reviews on the site true? Is UIUC really that bad and unsafe a place?</p>
<p>Reassurance will be much appreciated, but I would like the truth.</p>
<p>It depends on what you are studying. But I doubt you will have an issue with racism as the campus is very diverse. Especially in Engineering. If you are in an Engineering field you would fit in easily. Sure being able to drink a bit would be nice. But it is hardly required. Worst comes to worst you can always room in Hendrick House, ISR etc. You would be too busy studying or playing video games to party anyways (not completely serious, they do party at HH and ISR but is fairly tame).</p>
<p>btw as for safety you do hear reports once in awhile about some crime near campus. However it is still quite safe. Use some common sense.</p>
<p>I believe Illinois is the most diverse big ten school (correct me if I’m wrong), so racism shouldn’t be an issue. I have never heard anyone complain about discrimination or anything. I know TONS of kids who don’t drink, and they still have fun and lots of friends! It’s what you make of it. Just do what you’re comfortable with, but also try to put yourself out there too, freshman year is full of new people and new experiences. Don’t let the unknown scare you!</p>
<p>I don’t think you will encounter any kind of overt racism at UIllinois. I mean, there’s always some prejudice everywhere, no matter what anybody says. People can’t escape their prejudices, just work on reducing them and on meeting more people from more backgrounds and keeping an open mind. But, the human mind is prone to patterns and categories, so it’s always a pit fall, for you as well as anybody. But, I think racism would be low there, based on the kids I know, who attend. (granted this is anectdotal, but I don’t know of any studies for any kind of stats.)</p>
<p>As for drinking on BigStateU college campus? Welcome to the USA. This is everywhere. Good Luck to you.</p>
<p>Wow, thank you all for your comments. I do realize drinking exists in state universities, just like it does in every part of the world, but I just wanted to confirm that a non-drinker can exist. </p>
<p>I’m going into ACES, not engineering. But still, thanks for reassuring me, because I was seriously second-guessing my choice for a while there.</p>
<p>U of I is a very diverse and accepting university! Kind of segregated but definitely diverse. You’ll have no trouble finding Asians to hang out with. (I’m Asian, too!) And nope, you don’t have to worry about not drinking! You can still go to parties and not drink, don’t go to parties at all, or do your own thing.</p>
<p>Thank you all for your reassuring responses :)</p>
<p>I’m quite open to diversity and mingling with other nationalities, just so long as there is mutual respect for each others’ cultures. I’m so glad to know that this is the case!</p>
<p>And I guess you’re right in that things change in seven years’ time. Again, thanks for responding!</p>