[Tucson, AZ]

I'm seriously considering a grad program offer at UofA. I need help figuring out the best way to apartment search in Tucson. Craigslist is the way to go in Chicago, where I live now. But I haven't found very many listings near the UofA on craigslist-tucson. Can someone point me in the right direction? How do UofA students (not the beer-binging, "let's live with 20 of our closest friends" undergrads) typically find apts.? Local paper? Online? Apt search services? Roaming the neighborhoods for "rent" signs? Also, what is the timeline for signing a lease in Tucson. Where I did my undergrad, you often had to sign the October before the following August for an apt (insane!). Is Tucson the same way, i.e., am I SOL for finding a decent place this fall? Thanks in advance for the help!!

[Chicago, IL]

Hybrid Nomad said:

Hey there

First of all, thanks for all of this effort. Since I am an International Student who has never been to Chicago its great to get a general overview and it makes me feel a lot more comfortable with the prospect of flying out to the big bad city.

Anyways, I am trying to do some pre-screening of the different neighborhoods and housing options for me, but I was wondering if you all could give me some general pointers which areas I should consider. I got accepted by Northwestern (and boy am I still elated about that) and I would prefer to live closer to campus, rather than closer to Chicago. However, since I am used to commuting, I also would not mind a direct commute. (on the redline, right?) I don't mind partying, but since I doubt I will have all that much time for it, being close to the "action" is not a necessity. I would however prefer to avoid the rougher neighborhoods, because I am still somewhat intimidated by the imposing nature of US cities.

I think I should be able to spend between$700 - $800 on rent ( plus utilities?) and I would prefer to live by myself. A studio is ok, although a one bedroom would be really great, too.

Do you have any pointers on neighborhoods I should look into?

Also, on a more general thing, help me to get excited about Chicago , so tell me what YOU think makes Chicago unique and great?

Thanks in advance for all your help ( and also for all the pointers already given)

Are you still looking for neighborhoods in/around Northwestern? If so, I'd be happy to give you some feedback. Just asking before I write a bunch of info that may not be helpful!

 

[Iowa City, IA]

I recently received a great offer for grad studies at U. of Iowa. I know nothing about the campus or town. I've spent the last 5 years living in Chicago, and the thought of leaving the city makes me a bit panicky. So, I'm looking for any helpful info about the Iowa City community. Specifically, I'd love to hear from anyone who might have some feedback about the following: best areas to rent apartments (addresses are welcome! hah!), cost of living alone/one bedroom (I've been living alone for several years, and I'd prefer not to go back to roommate-land -- not that it is that horrible -- just feeling old and set in my ways!), outdoor recreation opportunities (Probably the only thing I miss in Chicago is quick access to really good outdoorsy areas.), diversity of the university community (Their stats look kinda measly when it comes to ethnic/racial diversity. I'm hoping it doesn't feel like that on campus, though!), and finally, (this may sound hokey, but whatever) Best Coffee Shops!

Again, I'm looking at a grad program, so any feedback from grad students (especially old farts like me (27)) would be wonderful; however, I also welcome input from anyone who's attended Iowa as an undergrad.

Thanks!!