<p>What is the typical student like? Even though I know it's diverse, I know there is still a certain feel and attitude about every university. I would really appreciate it if people who have visited or actual students answer this question. </p>
<p>Also, are you more likely to be admitted under ED and is it true that if you apply ED, it's harder to get a better financial aid package? Will checking "need-aid" when applying affect your college admission, even though they say no?</p>
<p>anyone want to reply?</p>
<p>sure i will 
even though i don’t go there. </p>
<p>from my visit, they seemed willing to help (and i talked to students who weren’t “guides” or specifically there to answer questions. just random passerby) and not stuck-up. they’re very intellectual but not nerdy. overall it’s a very “helpful” and “open” atmosphere, if that makes sense.</p>
<p>applying ED always increases your chances. and a lot of people who apply for college in general need financial aid, so it probably won’t affect your admissions decision.</p>
<p>As a current student, I’d argue the opposite. We are nerds (you’ll find Nerdwestern t-shirts in the student center store) but loveable, driven, ones. Excluding some distinct subcultures (theatre, athletes, film), your general Northwestern student is very involved. Involved in extracurriculars, in studying, dance marathon, partying, etc. As a pre-professional school (journalism, engineering, education, comm, most weinberg majors are econ which is essentially pre-consulting/ibanking), most kids are driven to achieve goals. We have the worst sports spirit of any big ten team but the best among any top private university besides duke/vandy/maybe stanford.</p>
<p>I don’t go to Northwestern, but I grew up around there and frequently visited the campus and Evanston. I don’t think there is any one stereotype associated with the students, like some schools a lot of people are partiers or super studious. I think NU has a good balance which is nice. Some of my friends go there and they like it and most people there seem really nice and fun.</p>