Why UChicago? Because I Like My Brain to Hurt (In a Good Way)

Francis, MA in Digital Studies, 2026

When I tell people I’m pursuing an M.A. in Digital Studies of Language, Culture, and History at UChicago, I usually get two reactions: (1) "Wow, why that direction," and (2) "Why UChicago?" The first question is easier to answer—I like exploring how technology intersects with the arts and humanities. The second one? Well, there are four solid reasons why I chose UChicago, and no, it’s not just because some of the smartest people I knew in high school went here for undergrad and I was jealous (okay, maybe a little).

The Intellectual Community: Hardcore Conversations

If you enjoy conversations where people randomly chat about OpenAI/DeepSeek/Anthropic and then films by Apichatpong (I just learned he got his film degree in Chicago) over coffee, UChicago is the place for you. This university isn’t joking when it says it values intellectual curiosity—it has 101 Nobel laureates, and the tally goes on. Every class I’ve taken here has pushed me to think deeper and question harder, which is both exhilarating and, occasionally, a brain workout. But the best part? I’m surrounded by people who genuinely enjoy these kinds of discussions. It’s a place where curiosity isn’t just welcomed—it’s celebrated. Perhaps you want to check out the Tuesday Trivia at the University Pub (rousing or humiliating? Depends on how much you know. Know about what? About everything and anything!)

Resources Galore: New Opportunities Every Day

With around 18,000 students, UChicago strikes that sweet spot where you get world-class resources without feeling like a face in the crowd (and trust me, I know—I was 1 of 60,000+ at my undergrad school). From one-on-one career counseling to mentorship opportunities with brilliant (and patient) professors, there’s always someone to help you figure things out. And did I mention the flexible curriculum that allows a wide range of electives? My program, for example, has 9 required courses and 8 electives—plenty of room to explore what excites me outside my field of study. Trying to make some money to support yourself while you study? Six months into my program, I’ve had two on-campus jobs and many chances to work on research projects for the faculty.

Affordability: Free Stuff is the Best Stuff 

Grad school isn’t cheap, but UChicago makes it a bit easier on the wallet. You can receive financial support through scholarships, fellowships, and even stipends to help you relocate. But beyond that, there are so many free resources on and around campus—I can go for days without spending money. Just a grocery run to the 55th Street Trader Joe’s and my week is set. Free campus transportation (CTA buses, UGo shuttles, rideshare program)? Check. Museum passes? Check. Gym access? Check. Wellness services such as counseling and yoga/meditation? Double check.

The City of Chicago: More Than Just Deep-Dish Pizza 

Sure, the pizza is interesting, but the city itself is a huge bonus. Chicago is packed with museums, attractions, cute shops, and more food options than I can reasonably try. The city is also known for holiday celebrations: the Christmas winter village, the Thanksgiving parade, the St. Patick’s Day river dyeing, and the non-holiday but must-see Chicago Ducky Derby. Plus, the career opportunities are everywhere—from networking events to internships, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with professionals and level up your career game. And hey, FYI, if you want to find a job or internship in New York, it is a two-hour flight away.

At the end of the day, coming to UChicago for grad school was a logical decision I’d reached. Between the stimulating intellectual environment, abundant resources, affordable living costs, and the vibrant city life, it felt like the right place to push my limits and grow. Anyways, I hope you are able to take away something interesting from my response to the classic “Why UChicago” question. Now, when someone asks me that question again, I can tell them to read this blog!