Malcolm Robinson (Harris School of Public Policy, ‘22) shares his experience moving to a new city from another country and reflects on how daunting the experience can be. He offers thoughts on moving to Hyde Park and shares tips on how to settle into a new environment.
Hyde Park has a large and diverse international community.
Located in one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the U.S., Hyde Park is home to the University of Chicago and is a richly diverse neighborhood. Located on the South Side, it is considered to be of the most culturally, ethnically, and intellectually diverse areas in the city of Chicago. Want to try South African cuisine? Hyde Park Nando’s has you covered. How about Jamaican Jerk Chicken at Uncle Joe’s? From the DuSable Museum of African American culture to the Japanese-inspired Garden of the Phoenix, Hyde Park is teeming with culture and internationally-oriented activities. With about 20 percent of the Hyde Park population hailing from abroad according to CMAP’s community data snapshot, it is not uncommon to hear four or five languages being spoken in the space of a single block. No matter where you’re from, it’s possible to find a welcoming community either in Hyde Park or in the Chicago area.
Parks and greenery are everywhere around the neighborhood.
Hyde Park is well-known for its public parks and green spaces. Within neighborhood limits, you’ll find scenic grounds like Washington Square Park, the Midway Plaisance, Nichols Park and Jackson Park, among others. And that’s not even considering the world-renowned parks the rest of the city has to offer! Amazingly, you’ll find people enjoying these parks almost year-round, so if you’re fond of an outdoor jog, you’ll have the places to do it, and you won’t be alone. If you wish to enjoy the Lake, students are able to access the Lakefront Trail from multiple points in Hyde Park. With over 18 miles of bike and foot paths that are open year-round, the Lakefront Trail provides access to most of the city beaches, and connects popular city attractions like the Museum Campus and Navy Pier.
It’s true: winters can be challenging for the uninitiated.
Unless you’re coming from a colder climate, you likely will not have felt anything like the Windy City’s infamous chilly weather. It gets cold. If you’re fond of snow, you’ll likely get your fix in the winter months, with the ground blanketed by flaky white snow for days at a time. But fear not, the city prepares for the chill each year – you’ll never be far from heated environments for long – many of the bus and train stops are heated! Moreover, the cold does have its perks. The city has some of the best attractions during the winter, including ice skating in Grant Park and adult nights at the Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium. Even more, students enjoying the lakefront trail in the winter months are treated to the jaw-dropping sight of the frozen Lake Michigan. Don’t let the chill scare you and you’ll experience the magic of changing seasons, from sunny summers, to colorful autumns and refreshingly welcome springtime. Be sure to get yourself a good jacket, though!
You can get by in the city without a car.
Hyde Park is an extremely walkable neighborhood, with campus shuttles travelling through the area and access to CTA and Metra for connections to downtown Chicago. Though you may choose to own a car, anything you need – pharmacies, restaurants, supermarkets, farmer’s markets, shopping centers, banks, convenience stores, and much more – will likely be within a 15-minute walk. And did I mention the parks? Campus transportation in and around Hyde Park is also free with your UChicago ID.
Take time to explore what the city has to offer.
If you’re at the University of Chicago, it means that you take your studies seriously. But don’t forget to find time for personal exploration in the city. Hyde Park and greater Chicago offer tons of events, cultural activities, and more for you to learn new hobbies or just simply enjoy the city. Visit UChicago offers an extensive list of things to do and provides a great list of year-round attractions. To make the most of your time, be intentional, do some research, plan ahead and prioritize activities so you can enjoy your leisure time while still studying hard in your graduate program.
You will fall in love with the Hyde Park and Chicago.
Hyde Park has something for everyone, no matter where you’re joining us from. In my own experience, I’ve been most pleasantly surprised by the people and the famous midwestern charm and politeness. If you give it a chance and keep an open mind, you will call it home in no time and it will hold a place in your heart even after you leave.
Learn more about the area of Hyde Park and featured neighborhood attractions at the Visiting UChicago website.