<p>I've been tentatively looking at UChicago. I like most everything I hear about it, with one huge catch: I'm not too fond of studying. I love to learn, I consider myself intellectual, but if Im not interested in a class I have no desire whatsoever to do the busywork. Given Chicagos reputation for academic rigor, Im worried I might be a poor fit for this particular academic environment.</p>
<p>Im also worried that I like the idea of UChicago and the idea of being a student there more than the reality of the university. So is it worth a visit? Or should I acknowledge that, as much as I love learning, I really dont like studying and thus would probably end up miserable?</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>Well, you wouldn't be doing a lot of busy work at Chicago, but you would be working, and in many areas with the Core. </p>
<p>I think that one of the things you need to remember, though, is that you may change a lot between now and when you send in your acceptance card a year from now. If you can visit without too much difficulty, then do so. You may be able to add Chicago to your list - or rule it out entirely.</p>
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[quote]
but if I’m not interested in a class I have no desire whatsoever to do the busywork
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</p>
<p>Join the club!</p>
<p>I find that most of my work here is very valuable and is not busywork. I care about doing it and I want to do it, rather than I feel I have to do it to earn a high grade (a pull I've never felt).</p>
<p>Check out schools like Hampshire, Marlboro, New College of Florida-- they too are intellectual, but in a more self-directed way. Instead of completing the Core, the challenge comes in by completing a self-designed project.</p>
<p>Be sure to visit -- when classes are in session.</p>
<p>When I originally suggested U of C to my oldest she was pretty lukewarm. As she seemed to be getting frustrated with the grind (and ridiculous college pressure here in the NE) during her junior year I urged her to go visit Chicago for "fun" with her Dad. I think she went to humor me.</p>
<p>She absolutely fell for the place on all levels -- I will never forget her phone call after she sat in on one of the Core classes, breathless with excitement.</p>
<p>To make a long story short, that visit re-energized her year and she will be matriculating this fall.</p>
<p>A close friend of hers had the near opposite opinion-- so it's good that she visited as well.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>JT</p>