There’s nothing like autumn in Chicago. The leaves change color, the air gets crisper, and the midterms start rolling in—but we don’t have to talk about the latter right now. Of course, one of the best parts of every fall is the arrival of Thanksgiving! The fourth Thursday of November is high in my personal rankings of favorites holidays, and few things bring me more joy than undoing my belt to make sure I have room for a slice of pumpkin pie.
So, in the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’ve decided to put together a list of things I’m grateful for at UChicago. It’s imperfect, and incomplete, and of course subjective, but in the face of an immensely challenging year, these are some of the ways being a Maroon has made my life better.
- Friendship: In the face of the challenges this year has presented, I’m hugely grateful for the support of friends I’ve made at UChicago. Whether it’s going to virtual House meetings or simply cooking dinner together with my roommates, staying connected with fellow Maroons has made many a glum day much brighter.
- Academic Support: From the beginning of the pandemic, professors have been very understanding and supportive of the issues that have come up. To have professors who truly make the effort to help their students succeed is immensely helpful in the face of everything we’re going through.
- Lake Michigan: Is this a simple one? Sure, but I think it’s important to find joy in the simple things. I find it very centering to head out to the Point when I have some free time and enjoy the majesty of Lake Michigan.
- Henry Ives Cobb: Liam, you might ask, why are you thankful for the architect behind the original UChicago campus plan? Reader, I respond, I am crazy about this campus. I love this place. Simply put, I’m thankful to go to school in a beautiful place, getting the classic campus experience of a smaller school as well as the added benefits of being located in America’s First City (I said it, I don’t care what you think).
- Belonging: Ever since I arrived in Hyde Park, I’ve experienced a sense of belonging that I never had in high school. It’s a special thing to feel that you’ve found your people, and I’ve certainly found mine at UChicago. Ours is a community I’m inexpressibly thankful to be a part of.
There’s no denying that this is a hard time for everyone. Still, I believe taking time, slowing down, and reflecting on the good in our lives can be hugely beneficial. So, wherever you are and however you’re (safely) celebrating, Happy Thanksgiving from the UChicago Admissions family!