<p>The cold weather of Chicago is scaring me a bit, considering I have spent 13 years in Miami, FL and 2 and a half years in Bangalore, India. I don't remember my 3 years in Philly, so I've basically forgotten what "real cold" feels like.</p>
<p>But kudos to the intellectual atmosphere at Chicago, because that's what I really wanted. In that respect, I had narrowed down my choices to Swarthmore and Chicago but I didn't get into Swarthmore (and now I like Chicago better anyways..)</p>
<p>I have a few friends from FL. You get used to the cold, I think. Come to Chicago early if you can to buy fall and winter clothing, including a really warm coat (Northface is the most popular brand).</p>