Need help on insights about UIC and Chicago

[55degrees]

Originally Posted by chicagobear

I would have thought that BU is a lot more highly ranked school than UIC.

Originally Posted by soulful

I would go with the school that has the most highly ranked MPH program and the best overall reputation in that field. The cost of living isn't all that different and you can make up for any variance by picking a different neighborhood as both cities have so many from which to pick.

I agree with the above posters. I think US News and World Report rank both of them in the top 20 MPH programs in the US, but BU looks higher (11 vs UIC's 16). I also think BU has a better overall reputation than UIC, so if you were to look for a job in other cities in the US, I would think you'd have better luck saying you're from BU than from UIC. If the schools were equal in reputation, I'd pick Chicago, but I'm biased. I think both are great cities.

[marothisu]

Originally Posted by 55degrees

I agree with the above posters. I think US News and World Report rank both of them in the top 20 MPH programs in the US, but BU looks higher (11 vs UIC's 16). I also think BU has a better overall reputation than UIC, so if you were to look for a job in other cities in the US, I would think you'd have better luck saying you're from BU than from UIC. If the schools were equal in reputation, I'd pick Chicago, but I'm biased. I think both are great cities.

100% Agree with all of this.

[sfcambridge]

I know Boston and Chicago well, as well as the medical community.

Chicago is much cheaper, and you will live better as a student. However, Boston is a great city to be both a student and in medicine. BU/Boston City Hospital is definitely better respected then UIC in the medical world. It is also easier and probably a little safer to zip around the much smaller city (much much much smaller) Boston at all hours (except not 24hrs in Boston!) - walking or public transport.

I would go to Boston if you have no personal preference. UIC is a good 2nd choice though. If it is more important to you to be in Chicago/really big city for personal reasons, then follow your gut.

[HomeIsWhere...]

[quote=buckie2o5;23974848]I'm kinda stuck between UIC and BU MPH programs with only a few days away to choose. I've done my research as much as I can via UIC SPH's website, but I feel like I don't know enough about the school or city. And unfortunately, I don't have the option to visit before the decision deadline so I was wondering if I can find out more information about the program at UIC from those who attended or know someone from the school. Any relevant details, experiences, or insight would be greatly appreciated! I've heard the costs of living in Chicago (UIC school area) can be just as expensive as Boston (South End, Back Bay area), is that true?[/quote]

Well, it's a slam dunk and this should settle your decision for you...just simple economics really. Food & Wine magazine names top doughnut stores in the U.S. and as one might imagine...Chicago is #1 with the Doughnut Vault and their $1 cups of coffee and Boston #2.

Congratulations and welcome to Chicago!

America's Best Doughnuts | Food & Wine

[jahk]

I know nothing about Boston. And I don't know MPH programs.

But.....I am moving to Chicago in June for a fellowship at UIC Medical Center, and I just spent a week in Chicago apartment hunting.

The area right around UIC is nice, safe, and while not the most expensive in the city, it is not the most economical either. However, there is really good public transit to UIC and the Hospital, with 2 train lines and several major bus lines within a few minutes walk. It not only possible to live away from campus and use transit to get there, it is easier and less expensive because you won't have to pay for parking or fight traffic. You will have great freedom to pick a residence based on where you'd like to live, not just proximity to UIC.

The same transit that gets you to and from campus will get you to and from entertainment, dining, nightlife, shopping, etc.

If you decide for UIC, come on back and I'm sure plenty of forumites will be happy to help with neighborhood advice.