Life in Chicago
The Graduate Program in Genetic Counseling is housed in the heart of downtown Chicago on the shore of Lake Michigan. The campus is easily accessible via public transportation, including several bus lines and the "El" train. Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own character. There is never a shortage of diversions, including great restaurants, free concerts, museum exhibits, and beautiful parks.
Housing
Students can choose to live downtown, close to the Northwestern campus, or in one of many Chicago neighborhoods. Both Lincoln Park and Lakeview are popular neighborhoods since campus is accessible by multiple routes of public transportation. Rent is typically $800-1000/month for a studio or one-bedroom apartment, and may be substantially less if you share a two- or three-bedroom apartment. Rents are higher downtown near campus, and generally cheaper the farther north you travel.
As finding housing may seem overwhelming, the following websites can help you jump start that search.
Transportation
Most students navigate the city of Chicago via public transportation. Almost all places in the Chicagoland area, including most rotation sites, are accessible via trains, buses, or a combination of both. The Northwestern campus is located near the Chicago Avenue Red Line stop, and can also be reached via multiple bus lines. Northwestern students receive discounted "U-Passes" (unlimited rides for ~$60/quarter), which can be used for both buses and trains.
- Chicago Transit Authority (CTA): Discounted parking is also available in parking garages near campus. The 2008/2009 student rates are $465 for the full year or $370 for the academic year. In order to be eligible for these rates, students must live north of North Avenue, west of Halsted Street, or south of Congress Boulevard. More information can be found on the University Services website below:
- Northwestern University Chicago Campus Parking
Fitness
Northwestern offers a substantially discounted gym membership ($150/year) at Holmes Place, a private gym near campus.
Entertainment
Chicago offers a huge variety of entertainment options for weekends and study breaks. The two websites below are great resources for restaurant recommendations or upcoming activities:
Chicago also has a great number of parks and beaches. Many residents take advantage of the Lakeshore Path for jogging or biking along Lake Michigan. Milennium Park, just minutes from campus, is host to many free outdoor concerts during warm-weather months, and also features an ice skating rink during winter. In addition, there are several world-class museums near campus, such as the Art Institute, The Field Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, many which offer free admission on certain days of the week.
