Sunday night before finals at Northwestern means one thing: primal scream! Students gather across campus to let out a collective yell, reminding everyone that while Northwestern students work hard, they also know how to blow off steam. It’s a fitting tradition for one of the Midwest’s top schools (and the only private one in the Big Ten) known for its world-class academics and lively social scene. With Chicago just a short hop away, Northwestern students get the best of both worlds. “I love being at a school that gives me the chance to take more classes through the quarter system. It’s a large school with small communities and a fun college town in Evanston. I like that I can walk anywhere, live in a suburb but also travel to Chicago,” says one student.
Founded way back in 1851 to serve the Northwest Territory (hence the name), Northwestern’s campus sprawls over 231 gorgeous lakeside acres in Evanston, just north of Chicago. From ivy-covered stone buildings to modern lakefront facilities, the campus is a scenic blend of old and new, divided into North Campus (tech-focused) and South Campus (arts-centric). With picnic spots, a 14-acre lagoon, and the new Ryan Fieldhouse sports complex, there’s always somewhere to unwind or work out.
Northwestern is known for its incredibly famous alumni and its School of Communications, Journalism, Theatre, and Vocal Performance majors. Journalism, Radio, Television, Film, Theater, Engineering, Music Education, Chemistry and History are the most popular majors. Famous alumni include many noteworthy journalists, politicians, actors and singers. Northwestern’s list of alumni is a virtual who’s who of Hollywood, Broadway, and Opera and includes:
Zooey Deschanel: Actress and musician recognized for her roles in “New Girl” and various films.
Kanye West: Influential rapper, producer, and fashion designer (attended briefly).
Meghan Markle: Actress and member of the British royal family, known for her role in the television series “Suits.”Meghan Markle majored in Theater at the School of Communication.
Stephen Colbert: Emmy Award-winning comedian and host of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.”Stephen Colbert studied Theater at the School of Communication.
Seth Meyers: Comedian, writer, and host of “Late Night with Seth Meyers.”
Julia Louis-Dreyfus: Emmy Award-winning actress known for her roles in “Seinfeld” and “Veep.”Julia Louis-Dreyfus majored in Theater at the School of Communication.
David Schwimmer: Actor known for his iconic role as Ross Geller on “Friends.” Schwimmer earned a bachelor’s degree in speech and theater from Northwestern University. Schwimmer was inspired to attend Northwestern after a high school instructor encouraged him to participate in an acting summer program there.In 1988, Schwimmer co-founded Chicago’s Lookingglass Theatre Company with seven other Northwestern graduates.
Richard Marx: Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter known for hits like “Right Here Waiting.”
Heather Headley: Tony and Grammy Award-winning singer and actress, recognized for her work in Broadway musicals.
Andrew Bird: Acclaimed singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his unique blend of folk, classical, and pop music.
John Kander: Renowned composer of Broadway musicals, famous for works like “Cabaret” and “Chicago.”
Shelley Berman: Comedian and actor who won a Grammy Award for his comedy albums.
Ana Gasteyer: Actress, comedian, and singer known for her work on “Saturday Night Live.”A voice major at Northwestern University, Gasteyer was drawn to theater, comedy and, always, singing.
Megan Mullally: Emmy Award-winning actress and singer, best known for her role as Karen Walker on “Will & Grace.Megan Mullally studied Drama at the School of Communication.After her sophomore year, she began acting in theater in downtown Chicago. By junior year, she was performing in eight shows per week.
Cynthia Erivo: Tony Award-winning actress and singer known for her roles in Broadway productions and films.
Billy Corgan: Lead singer of the rock band The Smashing Pumpkins.
George R.R. Martin worked as a professional writer for decades before finding mainstream success and acclaim with his fantasy series, “A Song of Ice and Fire.” In the books, an epic saga of warring families vying for power, Martin applies the rigorous journalistic detail he learned at Northwestern to a fantastic world of his own creation.
Janelle Monáe: Singer, songwriter, and actress known for her innovative music style and performances.
Zach Braff: Actor, director, and writer best known for his role in the television series “Scrubs.”Zach Braff studied Drama at the School of Communication.
Warren Beatty: Academy Award-winning actor, director, producer, and screenwriter.
Charlton Heston: Academy Award-winning actor known for films like “Ben-Hur” and “The Ten Commandments.”
Cloris Leachman: Academy Award-winning actress with a prolific career in film and television.
Dermot Mulroney: Actor known for roles in films such as “My Best Friend’s Wedding” and “The Family Stone.”
Northwestern is split about evenly between arts and sciences majors and five preprofessional schools, each with its own unique vibe. Students here tend to identify with their specific school, whether it’s the Medill School of Journalism—where students go hands-on with iPads and video cameras—or the McCormick School of Engineering, known for real-world problem-solving projects and a five-year co-op option. Medill even has a unique B.S.J./M.S.J. accelerated program, and the School of Communication is a hub for theater and media students. From engineering to music to education, NU students are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary fields, often creating new ones in the process.
Northwestern University is not just a school; it’s a dream destination for many students, and getting in can feel like trying to win the lottery! To get a seat at the table isn’t easy.
With an acceptance rate hovering around 9%, it’s definitely on the more selective side of things. So, if you’re thinking about applying, you’ll want to bring your A-game! The Early Decision deadline usually falls on November 1, which means you’ll find out if you’re in by mid-December—perfect for those who can’t wait to start their college journey. If you miss that, don’t fret! The Regular Decision deadline is typically January 2, and you’ll get your answer by late March. Just remember, Northwestern looks at more than just your grades; they want to see your unique story shine through in your application. So, whether you’re a straight-A student or someone with a killer passion project, make sure to show them what makes you, you!
Application Component Weightage: The Secret Sauce of Northwestern Admissions
Imagine the Northwestern admissions team as master chefs, cooking up the perfect class
Northwestern University is on the lookout for students who are not just book-smart but also bring their own flair and creativity to the mix. They want applicants who are intellectually curious, passionate about their interests, and ready to dive into campus life. Strong grades and test scores are definitely a plus, but Northwestern really values those personal stories that show off your unique personality and experiences. Whether you’ve led a club, volunteered in your community, or have a cool hobby that makes you stand out, they want to hear about it! The admissions team is all about building a vibrant community filled with diverse voices and perspectives, so if you can show them how you’ll contribute to that exciting atmosphere, you’re on the right track. So go ahead, let your personality shine through your application—Northwestern is ready to meet the real you!
Here’s how you might think about it:
Academic Spice (The Main Course)
- Grades and Course Rigor: This is like the protein of your application – it’s got to be substantial! Northwestern loves to see you’ve challenged yourself with tough courses and come out shining.
- Test Scores: While Northwestern is test-optional now, if you do submit scores, think of them as the seasoning. They can add flavor, but they’re not the whole meal!
Extracurricular Zest (The Side Dishes)
- Activities and Leadership: These are the colorful veggies on your plate. The more variety and depth, the better!
- Special Talents: Got a unique skill? That’s like adding a fancy garnish that makes the admissions officers go “Ooh!”
Essays and Recommendations (The Secret Sauce)
- Personal Statement: This is your chance to add your special flavor to the mix. Make it tasty and memorable!
- Supplemental Essays: Think of these as the dipping sauces – they should complement your main dish perfectly.
- Letters of Recommendation: These are like your sous chefs vouching for your culinary skills. Choose wisely!
The X-Factor (The Dessert)
- Demonstrated Interest: Showing Northwestern some love? The best show of demonstrated interest in committing during Early Decision. Northwestern also loves to see students visiting campus.
- Diversity and Unique Perspectives: Northwestern looks for students with a range of experiences and backgrounds to fill the seats available at the university. What unique flavor are you bringing to the table?
Remember, Northwestern’s admissions process is holistic, meaning they look at all these ingredients together to create the perfect meal… err, class! There’s no exact recipe, but mixing these components well will give you the best shot at impressing Northwestern admissions officers!
Northwestern’s standout programs range from the Integrated Science Program to the competitive Honors Program in Medical Education and the Mathematical Methods in the Social Sciences (MMSS). Top majors include everything from economics and psychology to visual and performing arts. Although academics can be intense, Northwestern’s quarter system—with four classes per term—keeps things fresh. “Students are incredibly supportive of each other,” one senior says, “but the academics are no joke.”
Students get tons of research opportunities and often go abroad through NU’s 150+ programs. Wildcat Welcome Week helps freshmen settle in, and smaller class sizes (77% under 20 students) mean even introductory courses have a more personal feel.
Many students aim for business or tech careers post-graduation, with popular fields like consulting and finance high on the list. Northwestern’s diverse student body includes 18% Asian American, 6% African American, 12% Hispanic, and 6% multiracial students. While NU doesn’t offer merit-based scholarships, they guarantee to meet full financial need and provide ample aid, including athletic scholarships.
On-campus housing is home to 60% of students, and there are dorms, residential colleges, and Greek houses (30% of men and 39% of women join fraternities or sororities). Northwestern’s dining options cater to all, with something for every diet, and off-campus options in Evanston—known as the “restaurant haven” of the North Shore—are perfect for a change of scene.
Greek life is big, but if that’s not your thing, there are 500+ other clubs and organizations, from African dance troupes to advertising groups. Campus events like the 30-hour Dance Marathon and Dillo Day (a massive end-of-year music festival) are highlights of the year, as are traditions like painting “the Rock.” The nightlife scene is as diverse as the students, with trendy bars, coffee shops, and nearby Chicago for endless cultural events and a quick city escape.
Sports and school spirit thrive here, especially with football and the “Big Ten” vibe. Northwestern’s athletics, including a legendary debate team, are top-notch. Varsity sports like women’s lacrosse and tennis shine, and the campus facilities, like the Norris Aquatics Center, keep students active year-round. The school’s location gives Wildcats access to both big-city perks and scenic campus life.
With Ivy League-level academics, a spirited Big Ten environment, and a perfect mix of social and professional opportunities, Northwestern offers a balance that’s hard to beat. Whether it’s the academics, the lakefront beauty, or the endless things to do, Northwestern students are proud to be Wildcats, embracing everything the school has to offer.
