Lucere,
I completely understand big city life. I am relocating from New York City so I am very familiar with the sirens and sorts.
I am going to be a student at the ischool (GSLIS).
I did not attend admit weekend, but then again, I really didn't need to because GSLIS surpasses all other ischools by far. I say this in terms of innovation, professional opportunities, outstanding research opportunities, and the school's dedication to social change at the community-level. Aside from those things, the program is the most flexible (allowing me to hone in on my specific interests), it is the most prestigious, and as far as information schools are concerned, UIUC is the most generous with funding.
I was really interested in attending a program that would allow me to focus on "Information Science" outside traditional settings. Others schools tended to solely focus on traditional librarianship. GSLIS is definitely, the best information school for someone like me - a person who wants to integrate libraries, information, communication and technology.
I have decided to live on campus for the first semester or two. I really wanted to jump right into the program without having to worry about finding a place. I want to be able to take my time and find something appropriate for myself.
I do see your point about the undergrads. But to their defense, it wasn't until I started researching graduate programs myself that I realized most public research-one institutions are super selective and heavily invest in their grad students; because it's the grad students who form the institution's future reputation (research, teaching, and professional application).
You may only know one person there, but I know no one. So your one-up on me...lol.
Congrats, I wish you the best!!!!!
P.S.: Not having a Trader Joe's is kind of a shock for me too...lol. ;-)