Hello!
I am likely to take up a PhD offer at UIC starting this fall. My stipend will be 25k (not sure how much will remain after taxes).
Anybody have any advice about which is the cheaper option: going for their most basic meal plan or buying groceries and cooking for oneself?
I calculated that the basic dining plan will cost me around $6 per meal or about $375 per month. How does that compare to buying groceries in Chicago?
The reason I am even considering the dining plan is because I will be taking on-campus housing.
P.S. The apartment will have a kitchenette shared between two people. I am a decent cook too. Plus I also don't eat very large meals, so I am apprehensive that buffets style dining might not be value for money for me.
Will be very grateful to hear from students in Chicago about their average budget for groceries per week / month!
Thanks!