I am currently a graduate student at Northwestern in my first year (I'm part of the 3 year program) Yes...sometimes I still look at grad cafe! I don't usually post, but I felt like I needed to for this. What you've heard about a cold atmosphere could not be further from the truth. The professors and clinical supervisors are very welcoming and helpful. I have not experienced any "looking down" on those who are not wanting to pursue a phD. In my opinion, the program fosters an attitude about working together rather than working against one another, and the faculty really want to see the students succeed in whatever area of SLP interests them most.