<p>I am new to CC. I posted a msg elsewhere asking for help on UIUC vs a few others schools (to help select the right school). While folks from GT and UM posted their opinion there, I see limited/no response on UiUC. Could some UiuC alums/current students/folks familiar w/ uiuc post their response in the original post below. Thank you. </p>
<p>Illinois is a great engineering school. The engineering campus is right off the main quad and somewhat contianed, although not a bus ride away like in Michigan's campus. The social life at Illinois is a geat atmosphere. A lot of school spirit with football games, not to mention concerts etc. The greek system is the largest in the country which helps to make a big school small. It is a wonderful opportunity socially to enhance your college experience but if you choose not to do it you are certainly not alone. The campus is in a rural setting in the middle of the state. Champaign Urbana is not to be compared to the city of Chicago but you certainly have the amenities of a college town. It is a fun place to spend 4 years.</p>
<p>I am currently deciding between Purdue, Illinois, and Michigan, among others. I prefer Michigan over the other two. The campus, the prestige, and the location are the main factors. However, I see that the weather is important. I don't think the weather will be much different between those three. (I actually love the cold, and all of my top schools are cold weather schools). If weather really is important, then I suggest visiting Georgia Tech.</p>