Experience in Chicago, United States by Ashley

What is it like to live in Chicago? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I love living in Chicago. The people are nice, and there is plenty to do as the city resides on Lake Michigan and the Chicago river. The food here is amazing and new restaurants are opening all the time. There is something for everyone as each neighborhood is unique and offers something different. For example, you can live in Lakeview and be close to the lake and walk to everything you need, or you can live in Logan Square to experience hip nightlife and music.

What is the student lifestyle like in Chicago?

It depends on the school. Depaul students at the Lincoln Park campus live on or close to campus and is very reflective of a larger university experience, except classes are smaller. But some schools are downtown and have more of a commuter liefstyle.

How much does it cost to live in Chicago?

It depends on the neighborhood and how far you want to commute. The cheapest (and farthest) neighborhoods can be around $500 for a room while closer neighborhoods to downtown will range from $700 to $1000 in rent. However you might find d affordable housing on campus. You will also want to budget more for food drink and entertainment.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Chicago? Is there any advice you can give?

No. You can use sites like Craigslist or work through your university to reserve student housing.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

There is food from all over the world in addition to traditional American and it is of amazing quality. Chicago is known for its high quality food and restaurant options. Some food traditions include deep dish pizza and Chicago style hot dogs.

What places would you recommend visiting in Chicago?

The park spaces are very nice. Millennium park offers free music in the summer and is close to the lake. Visit the beach in the summer. Also make sure to take an architectural tour of downtown as the architecture is amazing.

Is it good to eat out in Chicago? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes! I have too many favorites to name. On the pricey side is Longman and Eagle. Middle of the road is Big Star and for pizza I like Lou Malnatis.

Is the nightlife good in Chicago? Where is good to go?

Yes. There is a bar on almost every corner. There is also a large music scene as the city has a ton of music venues. There is not one good spot to go, but each neighborhood offers a different vibe to nightlife.

What advice would you give future students heading to Chicago?

Identify your hobbies and preferences and find a neighborhood that suites your needs. Every neighborhood is different and there is something for everyone. The public transportation system is fine, I have lived in Chicago in 10 years with no car, but it is not 100 percent reliable so give your self plenty of travel time. It gets very cold in the winter. You will need high quality boots and a warm winter jacket! When the weather is nice, take advantage because you will spend a lot of the winter in doors. The city is also bikeable since it is so flat, but lock your bike well because there is bike theft. Overall, Chicago is a great city. I have lived here for 10 years and consider it my home.

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