<p>Adding on to blueslipper’s comments about Downstate Illinois:</p>
<p>ISU - I had numerous friends who graduated from there in the 80’s. They are primarily working in Chicago’s Business and Financial sectors. All doing very well for themselves. The campus was a pit in the 70’s & 80’s. I toured it recently and was surprised how nice it is. Spoke with some professors and was very impressed. Good for business & education. </p>
<p>UIS - I am biased, my son attends UIS (University of Illinois at Springfield). It is very similar to a private LAC with the perks of the University of Illinois system. The merit aid for smart kids is almost unparalleled. It is well known for political science. Many students intern and are employed at the state capitol. It also has small science departments. I’ve met students who were accepted into medical schools & other grad schools while having little or no debt. </p>
<p>Knox - The closest that you’ll get to an East Coast LAC. It is one of the prettiest campuses in Illinois. Great education albeit expensive. Reputation of Knox graduates that they go to U of C graduate schools. </p>
<p>SIU - Carbondale - During the 70’s & 80’s, it had the reputation around Illinois as a party school. When I moved out west (to New Mexico), the professors asked me why I left Illinois. SIU had world class research going on there. They inferred that I was foolish not to attend SIU.</p>
<p>EIU - Reputation as the modern party school. But every graduate that I meet always has fond memories of Eastern. All are working in their fields and are doing well for themselves.</p>
<p>Wheaton College - It’s not a central or southern Illinois college but it’s reputation is unusual. When ever I hear people talk about Wheaton College, they mention how conservative it is. And they bring up the students who disappeared in the late 80’s. There was a manhunt for months. It turned out they ran away to be with each other. I think that “creepy” reputation still sticks around. </p>
<p>Couple of side notes -
While touring WIU, my kids both noted that none of the students were talking to each other, laughing or even smiling. They both nixed WIU just because it didn’t look like a place where the kids were happy.</p>
<p>All in all - In the Chicago area business & legal communities, I see a lot of DePaul, Loyola, UIC, UIUC, Iowa & ISU grads. There are a few UC & Northwestern grads, but not s many as you would think.</p>