<p>I was wondering if any current or prospective students who have already done an overnight visit could offer some suggestions. I'm visiting during the winter, so I know I have to be prepared for that. How much time did you spend with your host and how much were you exploring on your own? Is it a good idea to research things to do on campus, or is it pretty straightforward? I'm planning on sitting in on a class or two; how easy and informative was that? Thanks in advance for any suggestions or tips that would improve the experience.</p>
<p>Definitely sit in on a class–that was my favorite part of the visit. My host was “meh” at best. She was a relatively un-UofC first year who had midterms the next morning so basically showed me nothing on campus. All of us Max P prospies hung out together that night, but the other kids were kind of lame, so I did my own adventuring the next day. I’d suggest going to DocFilms, which I’m still sad I didn’t get to see, and definitely to a Core class. Also, eat at more than one dining hall; the admissions office will give you free meal tickets for visiting if you ask. And bring a sleeping bag! I forgot, which was very stupid.</p>
<p>I didn’t do this when I was a prospective student, but now that I am a student here are a couple suggestions:</p>
<ul>
<li><p>Go to two classes. (1) Go to a discussion based class. I would suggest going to a core humanities class as this will be a class you will have to take your first quarter if you go to UChicago. (2) Go a lecture based class (Chemistry, Physics, Econ, etc.). Math is sort of in a category of it’s own (small class but most are taught via lecture) so I would go with Chem/Physics/Econ (whatever you have interest in taking). After class, introduce yourself to the professor, especially if you are interested in the field.</p></li>
<li><p>Go to South Campus and Bartlett Dining Halls (one each…) Pierce isn’t the best, in my opinion, though some will disagree. I’m not sure how many meals you are here for, but if you are here for another one, go to a restaurant around campus with people you meet (I would suggest The Medici on 57th or Noodles etc. Edwardo’s is good but it can take quite a while to get your food.)</p></li>
<li><p>If you are into sports, see if there is anything going on (Dodgeball Monday night, IM Basketball, whatever.)</p></li>
<li><p>Go check out the libraries, coffee shops, walk around the quad, etc. There is a lot to see.</p></li>
<li><p>Go Ice Skating!</p></li>
<li><p>Doc Films is nice, but I wouldn’t call it anything special that you “must see.” It’s a nice theater, that depending on the night, plays interesting movies but it is pretty much like any other movie theater, however, it is cheaper at $5.</p></li>
</ul>
<p>And obviously, if you haven’t been on a tour yourself, go on one! Great way to find things about the campus.</p>
<p>By the way, it is COLD here so bring some warm clothing!</p>
<p>Spend the night in the concrete tomb that is the a level of the reg. This is what college will actually be like.</p>
<p>I did that once, it wasn’t half bad.</p>
<p>Don’t try to ‘be cool’ and ‘fit in’. Instead, ask as many questions as possible and make the most of your stay. Chicago kids are mature, and won’t treat you disrespectfully if you deliberately act like a prospie. Instead, they’ll likely be very excited by the opportunity to share their experiences with you. </p>
<p>I second the call to visit a discussion-based course and to visit the library. Skip Doc Films; it’s just a move theatre, and it’s a two-hour commitment on a short trip.</p>
<p>You’re free to try and plan events; if you visit on a weekday, that may well be necessary. However, if you visit on a weekend, your hosts will likely want to do all sorts of things with you, and you won’t have much discretion.</p>
<p>play midnight soccer!</p>
<p>Thanks for the suggestions. I am going to visit on a Thursday night, so I’m hoping to go to two classes on Friday. Any suggestions on how to keep from freezing while still traveling light (I’m flying in). And should I bring something like a book to read in case my host is doing homework, or is it very likely that my host will have plenty to show me and that I’ll have no down time. Any additional suggestions are welcome.</p>
<p>On a Thursday night, you may well have down time. Bring a book to be safe.</p>