<p>What is the reputation of the school to employers, especially those located in Chicago, Illinois, where I am planning on working (and have lived my entire life)? I have heard that it has a very strong reputation with employers in Illinois, but I would like to know more about the outside perception.
Considering that I am an Illinois resident, what is my chance of getting in with an approximately 3.67 GPA (uncertain), at least a four on four AP exams, three recs, a few (not many, though) ec's, and a few minor additions (I have not taken the ACT/SAT yet)?</p>
<p>U of I is considered the top public university in Illinois, especially by employers in Chicago. Of course, University of Chicago and Northwestern are probably “better” schools, for your (your parents?) money, U of I is a deal, and worthy competitor to those other 2. Of course, I graduated back in the dinosaur era from ISU, H graduated from EIU; Considering we were both retired by the age of 45, I’d say that those educations worked pretty darned well for us!!!</p>
<p>If you are planning on working in Chicago, why are you interested in the “outside perception”? As you know, U of I has a golden reputation in Chicago. It’s “perceived” as a very prestigious and good school; in Chicago, its reputation outshines other schools that are better ranked nationally. That being said, some programs are stronger than others – particularly good are business and engineering. Health fields, on the other hand, are centered at UI-Chicago.
U of I does not want recommendations.
They will take either your weighted or unweighted GPA – as the admissions rep told us at our presentation, “whichever benefits you.”
Your ACT score will be important. They look at the rigor of your schedule, and they CLAIM they really read your essays (there are two on this year’s application.)</p>
<p>astrophysicsmom – Good for you and H! I firmly believe it’s all up to the individual to make the most of whatever school he or she happens to be at.</p>
<p>UIUC is widely known as one of the top public universities. In the computer and engineering fields, it is very well known. I would not worry at all about going there. It’s a great choice. If your application is in early enough, you should be accepted. As the season wears on, they become pickier and pickier and fewer and fewer spaces left to give out.</p>