1. No category

Guide to Chicago for
New Booth Partners
March 2013
1
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................................
4
1................................................................................................................. Deciding Where to Live
5
1.1 ............................................................................................................................Neighborhoods
5
1.2 ..................................................................................Other websites for apartment searching
6
2. ....................................................................................................................... Settling in Chicago
6
2.1.......................................................................... Moving Furniture/personal items to Chicago
6
2.2 .............................................................................................. Buying furniture and electronics
8
2.3............................................................................................................... Changing your address
9
3...................................................................................................................... Deciding What to Do
9
3.1....................................................................................................................................... Working
9
3.2....................................................................................................................................... Studying
11
3.3................................................................................................................................ Volunteering
15
3.4........................................................................................................ Starting your own business
17
4............................................................................................................................ Buying Groceries
18
4.1....................................................................................Buying groceries in downtown Chicago
18
4.2. ................................................................................................ Buying groceries in Hyde Park
21
4.3.................................................................................... Buying fresh vegetables, fruits and fish
23
4.4......................................................................................... Buying groceries in wholesale stores
24
4.5............................................................................................................... Buying ethnic products
24
4.6......................................................................................... Buying groceries online for delivery
26
5..................................................................................................................................... Commuting
27
5.1............................................................................ Using public transportation: CTA & Metra
27
5.2..................................................................................................... Driving and Driver’s License
28
5.3............................................................................................................................... Renting a car
28
6...................................................................................................... Surviving the Chicago Winter
29
6.1............................................................................................................... Buying winter clothing
29
6.2........................................................................................................................ Using the Pedway
30
2
7................................................................. Health Insurance and Other Family Considerations
31
7.1...................................... Health insurance considerations for you and your student partner
31
7.2....................................................................................................... Living in Chicago with kids
35
7.3
Health Insurance if you have children, are pregnant or become pregnant. Free
Illinois State Insurance programs References for “All Kids” and “Moms & Babies” .
38
7.4..................................................................................................................... Caring for your pet
42
8.......................................................................................................................... Exploring the City
43
8.1............................................................................................................ Getting to know the City
43
8.2.................................................................................. Enjoying free events during the summer
45
8.3...................................................................................................................... Finding good deals
46
9.......................................................................................... Staying Fit and Finding a Hair Salon
47
9.1..................................................................................................................................... Staying fit
47
9.2............................................................ Finding somewhere to get your hair cut, “hair salon”
47
10.................................................................. Booth Partners Club and Partner Friendly Events
48
10.1.............................................................................................. Joining the Booth Partners club
48
10.2.................................................................................................................................... Sub-clubs
48
10.3................................................................................ Parents of Little Ones (POLO) sub-club
49
10.4.............................................................................................. Other “Partner” friendly events
49
3
INTRODUCTION
This guide has been created as a collaboration of many Booth Partners Club members, with the objective
of providing new partners with useful tips about life in Chicago. The guide is not a comprehensive guide
about life in Chicago, but is intended to cover points that we have considered important while living here.
We encourage you to reach out to us with any questions or concerns as sometimes topics are best
discussed through a personal connection.
Please let us know if you have any feedback or would like to connect with a member regarding any topic
by sending an email to [email protected].
All the best to you for your time in Chicago!
4
1. DECIDING WHERE TO LIVE
1.1. Neighborhoods
Deciding where to live is an important and personal decision you will make together with your student.
We are here to help answer any questions you have, so please feel free to contact us at
[email protected].
Every neighborhood in Chicago is unique and your selection depends on multiple factors; whether you
have kids, a car and/or pet, are a “city person” who wants to be close to restaurants/shops just to name a
few. We are certain that you will really enjoy whichever area you choose.
The main neighborhoods where Booth students live are Downtown/Loop, the South Loop,
Gold Coast/Streeterville and Hyde Park. Below is a breakdown of where students and their partners live.
Neighborhoods
Downtown/ Loop
Gold Coast/ Streeterville
South Loop
Hyde Park
Lincoln Park
Lakeview
Bucktown/ Wicker Park/ Logan Square
West Loop
Percentage of Class of 2012/2013
59%
12%
12%
7%
4%
3%
2%
1%
For a map of Chicago’s neighborhoods, click here http://www.choosechicago.com/mapexplorer
The most popular apartment buildings among Booth students in the Loop are:
-
Millennium Park Plaza
-
Columbus Plaza
-
Magellan Development Group buildings (the Shoreham, the Tides, the Lancaster, Aqua)
-
MDA City Apartments
-
Park Millennium Condominium Association
The monthly rent varies from 1,300$ to 3,000$, depending on the building, type of apartment and
included amenities. Tip: you can share a referral fee with someone you know from the chosen building.
Click on the below link to see the location of the most popular apartment buildings in different
neighborhoods:
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?vps=2&ie=UTF8&hl=en&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=20798138741421
6924747.0004aaa5cad7ea1a9c05b
5
1.2. Other websites for apartment searching
http://chicago.craigslist.org/
http://www.chicagoapartmentfinders.com
http://www.apartmentpeople.com
http://www.apartmentsavvy.com
http://classifieds.chicagoreader.com/chicago/Results?section=oid%3A8
2. SETTLING IN CHICAGO
2.1. Moving furniture/personal items to Chicago
A decision that you and your student will have to make is whether you will move your furniture to
Chicago or if you will sell it and buy new things when you come to Chicago.
A few recommendations when moving your furniture and personal items:
•
Research thoroughly the options of renting a truck and moving yourself (if within driving
distance) or hiring a moving company. Get quotes from both a few moving companies and price
out truck rental before making a decision.
•
If you decide to rent a truck and move yourself, get a quote from a moving company local in
Chicago for unloading only once you arrive.
•
Research thoroughly the options between packing yourself and having movers pack your things.
Both options can be expensive, however, many times packing supplies are included in the price
when you hire movers vs. you needing to buy packing supplies yourself.
•
If you have expensive items such as artwork or televisions and are hiring movers, have the
movers pack those items in crates, it is worth it to ensure that those items are packaged correctly.
•
Make sure you know the time frame for your items to arrive in Chicago; moving companies need
varying travel time, anywhere from 2-4 days to 10-14 days or more.
•
Make a copy of the inventory list so that you can double check when your boxes arrive.
•
Make sure you understand clearly the options for purchasing insurance for your items and what
the coverage is if anything happens.
•
Leave plenty of time for packing and unpacking!
6
Additional considerations for moving furniture/personal items from outside the U.S.
If you decide to move your furniture from abroad, there are a few additional things that you should take
into consideration. Here are some tips from a couple that moved their things from London.
Why did they decide to move their furniture? They decided to move their furniture because:
•
They had some pieces they really liked and wanted to bring with them
•
They did not have time to sell their furniture, nor had an inexpensive place to store it
•
The cost of moving a one bedroom apartment from London was approx. $4500 and they
estimated they would probably spend a similar amount if they were to buy everything new
What is the most important piece of advice for moving items to the U.S.?
Be mindful of your visa as you will not be able to ship your things until your visa papers have been
processed. This is something very important to know as shipping things from outside the U.S. can take
six to eight weeks or more. In their case, their things arrived in mid-October.
Some moving companies that partners have used are listed below; there are many regional,
national and international options, we urge you to put some effort into researching several options.
Golan’s Moving and Storage http://www.golansmoving.com/
A good option to help unload your rental truck. Golan’s has also helped Chicago Booth students relocate
between their first and second years.
Allied http://www.allied.com/
Allied is a national and international moving company that a partner used to move to Chicago from
Philadelphia and was overall pleased with how things went. Generally, they found that the extra cost is
worth the peace of mind and to ensure things arrived on time. You must have room to park the large
truck.
Mayflower http://www.mayflower.com/moving/
Mayflower is a national and international moving company. Mayflower is fully bonded, insured and
works with professional moving employees. You pay for this full service, as moves will cost between $38k. You must have room to park the large truck.
7
Two Men and a Truck http://www.twomenandatruck.com/home
A good option to help unload your rental truck.
National Van Lines, Inc. http://www.nationalvanlines.com/index.php
Graebel https://www.graebel.com/Public/
United Van Lines http://www.unitedvanlines.com/mover/
2.2 Buying furniture and housewares
Many of you will decide to come to Chicago without your furniture and housewares. If you need to buy
furniture and housewares, you may be able to buy some items from a second year student who is selling
their items or buy new. The admitted students Google group is the best way to find items for sale from
students moving.
For a few days, you may find yourselves without furniture and sleeping on the floor. Please do not
hesitate to contact second year partners to ask for an air mattress. We understand the situation and many
of us have an air mattress. If you prefer to buy one, you can find them easily at Target, Bed Bath and
Beyond, Amazon, etc.
There are many places to buy furniture and housewares in and around Chicago, some suggestions are:
•
Amazon.com: a great option for price shopping if you already know what you want to buy due to
a wide selection of small electrics and furniture. Booth students get a free year of Amazon Prime,
so ask your student to create an Amazon account using his/her Booth email address and subscribe
to Amazon Prime for free two-day delivery.
•
1800 Mattress: an alternative option to buy beds, will sometimes bargain on price, so try it.
•
Bed Bath and Beyond: a very good option to buy bathroom, kitchen, bedroom and some pieces
of furniture
•
Best Buy: a great option for electronics, make sure to sign up for their rewards program as you
will get credits towards future purchases
•
Crate & Barrel: good quality and stylish furniture but on the higher side of cost. They have
very good kitchen accessories.
•
Ikea: everything you need with good quality and reasonable prices. There are two stores near
Chicago and both are about the same distance from downtown; however, neither is served by
public transportation. If you do not own a car, ask a friend for a ride or rent a car. They have a
delivery service (approx. $50) that you can pay for in order to have furniture delivered to your
8
home within a couple of days. They ONLY deliver furniture so you will have to transport
everything else yourself. http://www.ikea.com/us/en/store/schaumburg
http://www.ikea.com/us/en/store/bolingbrook
•
Marshalls and/or TJ Maxx: great options for bathroom, bedroom as well as some furniture
•
Office Max & Office Depot: good options for furniture and equipment for your desk/office area
•
Target: great options at good prices to buy kitchen and bathroom accessories, small electrics
(e.g. vacuum cleaner, toaster, coffee maker, blender, etc.), some furniture
2.3 Changing your address
If you are moving from another location within the U.S., the United States Postal Service offers a change
of address service online. For a small fee you can change your address and get access to discounts to
stores near your new location (e.g. IKEA, Crate and Barrel, Best Buy, etc.)
Click on the below link to change your address online:
https://moversguide.usps.com/icoa/icoa-main-flow.do?execution=e1s1
3. DECIDING WHAT TO DO
Deciding what to do during your time in Chicago will be a very important step in taking advantage of
your time here. Chicago offers many opportunities to work, study, and volunteer or simply enjoy
yourself. Making the decision what you will do before coming to Chicago will help in making your time
in Chicago a great experience.
If you are an international partner, there is a good blog to read about living in a new culture on a
dependent visa: http://www.bloggermoms.com/topics/living-in-a-new-culture/immigration/
3.1 Working
Many partners decide to work while they are here in Chicago. Some partners do not even need to look for
a job as they are able to transfer with their current employer to Chicago (in the same or different position)
or some of them work remotely and travel as needed.
Getting a new job
Some partners decide to quit their jobs and find a new job here. They search for jobs before relocating
and have a job when they arrive, or they find a job after arriving in Chicago.
9
Do not hesitate to contact second year partners in your field for advice. They can help with searching for
a job and in many cases with contacts. When the Booth Partners club receives job postings, they will
send them out to via email. The University of Chicago provides some job opportunities for partners with
authorization to work in the U.S.
Some websites for your job search are:
•
http://www.indeed.com: consolidates job postings from different sites, employers and recruiters
•
http://www.linkedin.com
•
http://www.careerbuilder.com
•
http://www.monster.com
•
http://www.newleafresume.com: a site run by a former partner with tips on resume and cover
letter writing, etc.
Some companies and their respective websites for temporary employment as well as recruiting services:
• The Larko Group http://www.thelarkogroup.com
• Smart Resources Inc. http://www.smartstaffing.com
• Paladin Recruiting and Staffing http://www.paladinstaff.com
• The Chicago Hire Company http://www.thehirecompany.com
• OfficeTeam http://www.officeteam.com
• City Staffing http://www.citystaffing.com
Working as an international partner
The first thing you need to make sure you understand is whether or not your visa status provides you
authorization to work in the U.S. or not. The U.S. immigration system is currently set up so that only
married partners can obtain a dependent visa. We cannot stress enough that if you have any
questions/concerns, you should always check with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis to confirm the restrictions/privileges of your particular situation, as
they may be different from others even with the same “letter” visa.
General terms:
• F-2 spouses cannot work and cannot study full-time unless the study is “vocational or
recreational in nature.” A casual class such as a continuing education class at a community
college (language, hobbies, writing etc.) is fine, but any class leading to an academic degree is
not allowed. Partners who decide to get a degree need to apply for their own F-1 visa.
• H-4 spouses, (spouses of H-1B workers) are allowed to study but cannot work.
10
• J-2 spouses can study full-time and may be able to work if they first obtain authorization.
Applying for an H-1 visa or another H status with authorization to work in the U.S.
•
To get an H-1 visa you need to be hired by a company willing to sponsor your visa
•
The company applies for your visa. Applications start on the 1st of April and last till the quota
(85,000) is finished. In 2013, the quota has been run out within the first couple of days. So the
advice is to try to find a sponsor before the application process starts.
•
After your application is filled in April you will have to take care of the required paperwork and
visa application. You will be able to start working only after 1st of October.
L-visa
This is another type of a working visa which allows companies operating both in the US and abroad to
transfer certain classes of employee to the USA for up to seven years. The employee must have worked
for the company outside of the US for at least one year out of the last three years. Specialized knowledge
staff can be sponsored for USA L-1 visa. But as with many other jobs in the USA, you need to network
beforehand and try to meet decision makers.
Click on the link for more information on U.S. visas http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis
Many U.S. companies do not sponsor H visas. Some companies that sponsor work authorizations (H
visas) are consulting firms, banks, some large corporations. Some international partners have
successfully found a job and are working with an H-1 visa, so do not feel deterred from looking for a job
just because it is complicated. If you prefer not to go through the process, this is a great time to take the
opportunity to study or volunteer.
3.2 Studying
If you can afford it, studying is a great thing to do during this period, especially if you can coordinate the
timing with your student’s MBA program. Chicago offers many options for full-time studies, short-term
courses and language studies.
Full-time studies
There are many Universities and other higher education institutions in Chicago and the surrounding areas.
Depending on what you are interested in, below are some options that other partners have explored.
11
Business and Entrepreneurship
DePaul University offers short-term programs with different business specializations. It also offers
certificate courses that can be done by a partner on F2 Dependent Visa.
http://www.depaul.edu/university-catalog/Pages/default.aspx
Education and Social Policy
Northwestern University School of Education and Social Policy offers several programs.
http://www.sesp.northwestern.edu/programs/index.html
Interior Design
Harrington College has both an associate and bachelor’s degree program in Interior Design.
http://www.harrington.edu/Degree-Programs/Interior-Design
LL.M. (Master of Laws) Degree
There are options for further study in the field of law for international partners who have a law degree
from another country, who are licensed to practice law, or who have practiced law in another country.
Two options for ranked LL.M. programs are the University of Chicago and Northwestern University,
click on the links to more information including application requirements:
http://www.law.uchicago.edu/llm-program and http://www.law.northwestern.edu/llm/
Photography
Harrington College of Design http://www.harrington.edu/Degree-Programs/Interior-Design
Columbia College http://www.colum.edu/
Psychology, see below the websites of some schools that offer graduate programs
Adler School of Professional Psychology http://www.adler.edu/
DePaul University http://www.depaul.edu/admission/types_of_admission/graduate/psychology/index.asp
Loyola University Chicago http://www.luc.edu/psychology/academics_graduate.shtml
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology http://www.thechicagoschool.edu/Home
The Graduate School Northwestern University http://www.tgs.northwestern.edu/index.html
University of Illinois at Chicago https://www.psch.uic.edu/
12
Public Policy
The Harris School of Public Policy Studies at the University of Chicago offers several programs.
http://www.harrisschool.uchicago.edu/
Social Work
Loyola University Chicago http://www.luc.edu/socialwork/
University of Chicago https://ssa.uchicago.edu/
Roosevelt University http://www.roosevelt.edu/Home/Education.aspx
Short-Term Courses
If you are not ready to commit to full-time studies, but would still like to use part of your time to study
something, Chicago also offers plenty of options to do so.
Languages
English
Free classes
Some Universities and language centers in the Chicago area offer free classes. Some of these programs
use student teachers in their last year of education. It is a great opportunity for those who want to practice
speaking English and/or combine other study with these additional ones to increase exposure.
Typically, before enrolling in a class, you will take a test to determine your level of proficiency.
The Booth Partners Club provides you with a list of free English courses that our partners have attended
as suggestions, but you can always look online for courses closest to you.
Chicago Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Academy
http://www.internationalteflacademy.com/chicago-tefl-certification-chicago-tesol-classes/
Scroll down on their website and read the "Student teaching" section for information on free classes. You
have to register on the website. Courses are located in Lincoln Park and are usually held in the evening.
City Colleges of Chicago http://www.ccc.edu/departments/pages/tuition-free-esl.aspx
Loyola University Chicago http://www.luc.edu/esl/index.shtml
Teaching House Chicago, Granada Center http://thchicago.com/free-english-classes-1
International House Boston http://www.ihboston.com/ih_boston_contact_us.php
Send a message to the following email address asking about free English courses in Chicago;
[email protected]
13
English Programs
DePaul University (Downtown) offers intensive immersion English courses and TOEFL preparation,
http://www.depaul.edu
Education First (EF) (Downtown) is highly recommended by other partners, a very structured and
comprehensive program http://www.ef.com/ils/destinations/united-states/chicago/
Intrax is well known and offers preparation to different exams http://www.intrax.edu/chicago
Kaplan is very well known, offering TOEFL, GMAT and other exam preparation courses,
http://www.kaplaninternational.com/courses/english/general.aspx
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) http://www.uic.edu/depts/tie/
UIC offers several different levels of English classes, each with reading and writing as well as
speaking/listening portions. The teachers are experienced professionals with advanced degrees. Classes
are 20 hours per week, the fee is about 4,000$ in one semester.
University of Chicago International house http://www.ihouse.uchicago.edu/esl/index.shtml
There are several programs: Writing skills, Accent Reduction, and Conversation Strategy. They usually
offer a substantial discount for the first semester.
In addition, the Chicago Booth Partners Club offers free English conversation groups, a great way to
network, spend time together and learn the conversational language! Look for invitation via e-mail or
Facebook Group.
Other Languages
French – Alliance Francaise http://www.af-chicago.org
German – Goethe Institut. 10 weeks costs 380$ http://www.goethe.de/ins/us/chi/enindex.htm
Portuguese – Brazil in Chicago http://www.brazilinchicago.com
Spanish – Instituto Cervantes. 30 class hours cost 360$ http://www.chicago.cervantes.es
Italian – Italidea. 10 week classes cost 350$ http://italidea.org
14
Other Short-Term Courses
University of Chicago Graham School offers Certificates from business to the liberal arts. The classes
are very popular among Booth partners. https://grahamschool.uchicago.edu/noncredit/certificates
The Chopping Block offers cooking courses http://www.thechoppingblock.net/
Hyde Park Art offers a variety of art courses http://www.hydeparkart.org/
Lillstreet offers adult classes in different crafts http://www.lillstreet.com
Loyola University Chicago Continuing Education Courses (in Humanities, Professional Development,
Sustainability studies, Writing, Communication and Marketing)
https://www.perseus.luc.edu/continuum/?null
Make Up First offers make up courses http://www.makeupfirst.com/school_about.asp
School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC): Courses through the Continuing studies department at
the SAIC provides the highest quality educational opportunities in art and design through courses tailored
for adults including evening and weekend courses, workshops, and certificate programs. Some examples
of courses offered are graphic and web design, adobe photo shop, drawing, fashion, and photography.
Courses are generally one day per week, 3 hours in the evening for 10 weeks for 525$.
http://www.saic.edu/continuing_studies/Courses/index.html
University of Illinois at Chicago External Education
UIC offers a catalog of over 300 unique personal enrichment and professional development programs and
courses in business, writing, health sciences, nonprofit management, social work. Some courses are
offered online. http://exedweb.cc.uic.edu/exed/exedpublic/
Don’t forget about a great opportunity of FREE online education. A couple of websites recommended by
Booth partners are free online classes from Stanford and Harvard Universities:
https://venture-lab.stanford.edu
http://www.class-central.com
3.3 Volunteering
Volunteering is a wonderful way for partners to give back to the community while also meeting new
friends and expanding your skills. There are many opportunities to volunteer in different fields. Chicago
offers plenty of opportunities to volunteer: from working for museums and theatres, becoming a Docent
for the Chicago Architecture Foundation to helping at legal clinics, hospitals and doing pro-bono
consulting.
15
There are a couple of good websites that have a full database to search for opportunities according to your
background/location/availability/interests:
www.idealist.org
www.volunteermatch.org
www.smartvolunteer.org
www.ChicagoVolunteer.net
Business Volunteering/ Pro-bono Consulting
Organizations where professional experience is required (Marketing, Finance, Information Technology,
Human Resources, Strategy) are a great opportunity for international partners without work authorization
to gain work experience in the USA and get network in your professional field:
http://www.taprootfoundation.org/do-probono/individuals
http://www.artsbiz-chicago.org
Some organizations that partners have volunteered with are:
Chicago Cares www.chicagocares.org
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago http://www.bbbschgo.org/site/
Chicago Architecture Foundation http://caf.architecture.org
Chicago Legal Clinic http://www.clclaw.org/
Children’s Oncology Services, Inc. (COSI) http://www.onestepcamp.org
Christopher House http://www.christopherhouse.org/
Jane Addams Hull-House Museum at the University of Illinois at Chicago
http://www.uic.edu/jaddams/hull/hull_house.html
Joffrey Ballet Chicago http://www.joffrey.org/volunteer
Junior League http://www.jlchicago.org/
Ronald McDonald House Charities http://www.rmhccni.org/
There is also an opportunity to volunteer at the University of Chicago. However, partners on F2 visa
should look for unpaid jobs only (“non-work study” category). Some partners with work authorization
found a full-time job at the University of Chicago.
http://nsp.uchicago.edu/page/employment
16
3.4 Starting your own business
Below is the story of one partner who started a business while her husband pursued his MBA.
My story: Starting my own business (by Zori Ivanova)
When my husband Seth and I moved to Chicago for his MBA, I felt inspired by the opportunities our new
city offered and by Seth’s new found passion for entrepreneurship and the network of young
entrepreneurs he had met. It was not long before I decided that, instead of looking for a “regular” job, I
could use my time in Chicago to try to start my own business. My plan was to start a business I could run
online, so that I could have the flexibility to travel and work from anywhere. I decided to combine my
marketing experience and my passion for writing and start a blog. My first blog was called
balancedlifeforwomen.com with inspiring, entertaining and practical articles for busy women. In order to
make money from my blog, I learned a lot about Internet Marketing, Social Media Marketing and
Affiliate Marketing - all new skills that I had not used in my corporate career. Soon after, Seth and I
created a website together. The information and tools on our website http://www.newleafresume.com,
helps people write a strong resume, create a memorable cover letter, polish their job interviewing skills
and get the job of their dreams.
If you choose to start a business while your partner is in business school, here are a few tips:
•
Go for it. You do not have to quit your job if you do not want to, try starting your business parttime at first and see how it feels.
•
Network. The University of Chicago has a great entrepreneurship community and resources, so
make sure that you make the most of them. Together with my husband, I attended a few
entrepreneurship seminars organized by the school and I met many like-minded individuals.
•
Learn new things. Depending on the business you choose to start, you may have to learn new
skills. With all of its colleges, universities and other resources, Chicago is a great place for that.
I used the meetup.com website to join groups with my professional areas of interest.
•
Do not give up. All of the entrepreneurs I met said that you need to stay flexible and be open to
frequent changes in your original plan. If you cannot get your business idea off the ground,
modify it or try something entirely new.
17
4. BUYING GROCERIES
4.1 Buying groceries in downtown Chicago
The most popular 2-story grocery store serving the Lakeshore East neighborhood buildings: MPP,
Columbus Plaza, Aqua, Tides, Shoreham, North Harbor Tower, Lancaster, MDA, Park Millenium,
Regatta etc. It has the International section, so the variety of products is great there!
333 E Benton Pl, Off Upper Randolph, Chicago, Illinois 60601, Phone: 312-228-1349, Hours: 6am-10pm
Daily Free 2 hr validated parking off N Field Blvd http://www.marianos.com/default.aspx
A popular store in the Loop. It has a lot of sections from Clothing and Home to Food and much more! A
lot of partners found it useful to shop there for small home items. 1 S State Street. Hours: 7am – 10pm
http://www.target.com/store-locator/store-details/storeNumber=2799
Besides Pharmacy, the store has Beauty, Office supplies and Food sections. Its long working hours and
proximity to most popular buildings in the Loop made this store a popular place to shop. Tip: they offer
Extra Care Card to its customers with good discounts. 225 N Columbus Drive. Hours: 6.30am – 12am
222 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60601-7810 Phone: 312-228-9920, Hours: 7am-Midnight Daily
http://www.bockwinkels.com/ Located on the ground floor of the Park Millennium building.
• Prices are good when items are on sale, otherwise, you will pay a premium for convenience • Growing selection of basic groceries. The deli is great for lunch sandwiches.
18
Streeterville-401 East Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60611-4319 Phone: 312- 410-7301
Hours: 6am-Midnight Daily http://www.foxandobel.com
•
•
•
Chicago's premier market for artisan foods and ingredients. Large selection of cheese, coffee,
olive oil and pasta
Top 10 bakery in the US in 2010, No.1 in Chicago
On the higher side of price but also higher quality, has a Café and bistro restaurant also
www.dominicks.com
Streeterville-255 East Grand Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 Phone: 312-279-1305 Hours: Open 24 hrs Daily
•
•
Wide selection of fresh produce, meats, fish, bread, frozen goods. Etc.
Loyalty card gives you access to discounted prices. Getting a card is easy (just stop at customer
service and ask for it), register your card online for additional coupon savings
Streeterville-680 N Lake Shore Dr # 100, Chicago, IL 60611-4447 Phone: 312-664-6590
Hours: 7am–9pm M–F, 7am–8pm Sat, 8am–7pm Sun
•
•
•
Relatively good prices and good selection of items
Italian area has multiple brands of high-end pasta and sauces; large kosher and Asian selections
European imported selection of jams and jellies, mustards and oils
South Loop–1101 S. Canal St., Chicago, IL 60607 Phone: 312.435.4600 Hours: 8-10pm Daily
Gold Coast-30 West Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60654 Phone: 312- 932-9600 Hours: 8-10pm Daily
http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com
19
•
Great place to shop for organic and natural food!
•
Prices on the higher side but so is the quality, especially the produce, meat and fish counter
•
Sushi bar, pizza oven, salad and olive bar and wine selection
River North-44 E Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60611-4755 Phone: 312-951-6369 and
South Loop- 1147 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605 Phone: 312-588-0489, Hours: 8am-10pm Daily
•
Small selection, great quality and prices, organic choices as well as great cheeses and beer.
•
Variety of cultural items (Asian dumplings, Asian dishes, Indian curry dishes, Pad Thai, risotto,
pastas, Mexican burritos, enchiladas, etc.)
River North-550 N State Street, Chicago, IL 60610 Phone: 312-527-2162, Hours: 6am-Midnight, Daily
http://www.jewelosco.com Obtain a loyalty card for access to better prices
Loop-53 East Lake Street, Chicago, IL 60601 312-658-1250
Hours: 10:30am-8pm M-F, 11am-6pm Sat & Sun
•
Neighborhood cheese shop in the European tradition offering artisanal domestic and international
cheeses, freshly baked breads, selected wines, charcuterie and olives
•
Offers monthly wine tastings for free as well as different classes
20
4.2 Buying Groceries in Hyde Park: there are three major supermarkets in Hyde Park
Also, see info in the following link: http://chicagolife.uchicago.edu/city/hp_shopping.shtml
A
1521 E Hyde Park Blvd, Chicago, IL 60615-3039 Phone: 773-288-8180, Hours: 7am–12am Daily
•
Smaller supermarket with good prices and good selection of items and good discounts
•
Fresh vegetables and fruits, wide selection of meat and household goods
21
B
http://www.hydeparkproduce.com/index.html
1226 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615 Phone: 773-324-7100, Hours: 8am–8pm M-Sat, 8am–6pm Sun
•
Small scale local supermarket with neighborhood flair
•
Homemade salads, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, grilled and baked fish, stews and casseroles,
cakes – ready to eat.
•
Cheese and olives counter, wide organic selection, especially of milk products, fresh bread, fresh
vegetables and fruits
C
http://www.tifoods.com/ 1526 E. 55th Street, Chicago, Illinois 60615 Phone: 773-358-6400
Hours: 7am–10pm M–Sat, 8am-9pm Sun
•
Relatively good prices and selection of items from every culture. You will find everything from
baby food and paper towels to imported balsamic vinegar and black truffle spread
•
Homemade salads, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, fresh sushi, grilled and baked fish, stews and
casseroles – ready to eat. Large kosher and organic selection
•
Fresh breads and cakes, meat and seafood counter, cheese and olives, salad bar
•
Huge area of fresh vegetables and fruits, fresh flowers and wine selection, freshly squeezed
juices, fresh fruit smoothies. Café and pizza
22
4.3 Buying fresh fruits, vegetables and fish
•
Chicago's farmers markets bring more than 70 vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and
flowers to over 20 neighborhoods throughout the City of Chicago.
•
Markets are typically held Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday around the city.
•
For more information on where and when the Farmer’s markets are held see the link below,
schedule announced in April:
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/supporting_narrative/events___special_events/special_events/mos
e/chicago_farmers_markets.html
Usual locations for farmer’s markets throughout the Spring-Fall months in downtown Chicago include:
Daley Plaza: @ Washington & Dearborn
Pritzker Park: @ 344 S. State St.
Willis Tower Plaza: @ 233 S. Wacker Dr.
Downtown Farmstand: @ 66 E Randolph
French Market 131 North Clinton, Chicago, IL 60661 Phone: 312-575-0306 Hours: 7am-7:30pm M-F
• Only year-round, indoor marketplace, located in the Metra Market, ground floor of Ogilvie
Transportation Center. Offers local cheese and beer tastings.
•
Featuring nearly 30 individual specialty vendors, the French Market offers fresh ingredients for
cooking at home, delicious grab-and-go options, light snacks plus meaningful gift ideas, all in one
convenient location.
Stanley’s fruit market
1558 N Elston Ave (between Le Moyne St & North Ave), Chicago, IL 60622 Phone: 773-276-8050
Hours: 6am-10pm Mon-Sat, 7am-9pm Sun
• Good selection of fruits and vegetables and less expensive than Jewel/Dominick’s.
•
Best place to find cheap produce on the near north side, a very limited selection of other products,
but you should be able to find a gallon of milk, a dozen eggs, and a loaf of bread.
•
Great prices on fruits and vegetables, an increasing portion of which are organic—about 40
percent cheaper than in other places, according to the manager
Isaacson and Stein Fish Company, 800 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607 Phone: 312-421-2444
Hours: 9am-4:15pm Mon, 8am-4:15pm T-F, 8am-1pm Sat
• Best Fish market in Chicago, fun place, great prices and as fresh as it gets for an open market
•
Good selection of fresh fish, shellfish, etc., at very good prices
23
4.4 Buying groceries in wholesale stores
Costco 1430 S Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL 60608 Phone: 312-492-3600 and 2746 N. Clybourn Ave,
Chicago IL 60614-1006 Phone: 773-360-2053, Hours: 10am-8:30pm M-F, 9:30am-6pm Sat, 10-6pm Sun
•
It is a great place to shop in large quantities (from meat to cheeses to vegetables). Located in
Lincoln Park, you will need to drive there.
•
Membership is required to shop here, or go with a friend who is a member. An annual
membership is approximately $55, go to http://www.costco.com for current information.
Sam’s Club, 2601 S Cicero Ave., Cicero, IL 60804 Hours: 10am-8:30pm M– F, 9am - 8:30pm Sat,
10am-6pm Sun, Similar concept to Costco
• An annual membership is approx. $40, go to http://www.samsclub.com for current information.
4.5 Buying ethnic products
Tango Sur - El Mercado Meat Mart
3767 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613 Phone: 773-477-5020
•
Located next to the Tango Sur restaurant. Selection of Latin American products.
Fresh Farms International Market http://www.myfreshfarms.com/
5740 West Touhy Ave., Niles, IL 60714 Phone: 847-779-7343 Hours 7am-10pm Daily
•
A fantastic grocery store filled with every kind of produce, meat, breads and dairy items
•
Large selection of ethnic foods
Brazil Legal
2153 N. Western Ave, (between Palmer St & Shakespeare Ave), Chicago, IL 60647
•
This is a Brazilian specialty store not a full-scale market. For the homesick Brazilian or the
traveler who wants a taste of Brazil this place is awesome. Some items carried: Pao de Quejo,
Guarana soda, Doce de Leite, coffee, candies and cookies
La Unica Food Market
1515 West Devon Avenue, Chicago, IL 60660-1313 Phone: 773- 274-7788, Hours 8am-9pm M-Sat,
8am-5pm Sun
•
Products from many Latin American countries
24
•
In store restaurant in with Colombian, Peruvian, Mexican, Cuban, and Panamanian food
3333 N. Kimball Ave. Chicago, IL. 60618 Phone: 773-478-5566, Hours 9am-9pm Daily
http://www.joongboomarket.com/index.php
•
5 min walk from Belmont station on CTA Blue line. Right off I-90/I-94, at the Kimball Ave exit.
•
A variety of Asian produce, meat, fish, dry groceries and specialty items including frozen
octopus, shrimp packs. Also has a quick-service restaurant, at incredibly cheap prices.
801 Civic Center Dr Niles, IL 60714 Phone: 847-581-1212 http://company.hmart.com/
Hours: 8am-10pm Daily
•
One of the biggest Asian grocery stores in area, online shopping offered, food court
•
Served by public transportation, however transportation by car is more convenient
100 E. Algonquin Road, Arlington Hts., IL 60005 (Off I-90 near O’Hare) Phone: 847-956-6699
Hours 9am-8pm Daily http://www.mitsuwa.com/tenpo/cica/eindex.html
•
Offers online shopping with home shipping, higher prices, Wagyu beef, sashimi and sushi
•
Their food court offers Chinese dim sum, Korean soup dishes and Japanese ramen noodles.
25
4.6 Buying groceries online for home delivery
Peapod http://www.peapod.com
•
Good selection of products, they generally offer a discount on your first order (check online for
coupons), delivery fee applies
Angelo Caputo https://www.shopouraisles.com/CAPUTOS.ASP
•
Good selection of Italian products at good prices (e.g. olives, pasta)
•
There is no minimum order value; however, there is a delivery fee.
Organic products online: http://www.angelicorganics.com/ http://chicago.doortodoororganics.com/
Masalas 4 Less Online Indian Groceries http://www.masalas4less.com/store/
If you are interested in buying Indian products and having them delivered to your house, Masalas is a
good option. There is no minimum order value; however, there is a delivery fee.
26
5. COMMUTING
5.1 Using Public Transportation: Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and Metra
It is very easy to travel around Chicago; the public transportation system is great and very well organized.
There are two main systems of public transportation in Chicago:
CTA – operator of mass transit within the city limits and some of the suburb, buses and the “L” trains. To
travel by bus or L, you should buy a rechargeable CTA card. Each trip costs 2.25$ and if you use it within
the next two hours, your next trip will cost only 0.25$. See the website for current prices and bus/train
routes as they change from time to time, http://www.transitchicago.com/
A good suggestion is to download a CTA app on your phone (“Buster”) to track buses and L, and use
Google maps to find the best option for public transportation for you. A few popular routes for
students/partners:
• Downtown to/from Hyde Park: Buses (2, 6, 173)
• Downtown to/from South Loop: Buses (6, 146) and the Red Line trains
• Downtown to/from O’Hare airport: Blue Line trains
• Downtown to/from Midway airport: Orange Line trains
• Downtown to/from Lincoln Park/Old Town: Buses (22, 151) and the Brown Line trains
• Downtown to/from Wicker Park: Blue Line trains
• Downtown to/from Lakeview/Wrigley Ville/Boystown: Red Line and Brown Line trains
Metra – operator of the commuter train system from Chicago out to the surrounding areas. Go to the
website for current prices and train routes http://metrarail.com/metra/en/home.html
The Metra has a fixed schedule and trains are almost always on time. Metra ticket to Hyde Park costs 3$.
Monthly passes are available if you will travel about 4 times per week. Riding the Metra trains is the
primary way that students travel between downtown Chicago and Hyde Park, especially for those who
live in buildings with direct access to Millennium station through the Pedway. There are two main
stations in Hyde Park, 59th Street which is closest to Booth (not all trains stop here) or 55th/56th/57th St (all
trains stop here).
Download a Metra app (“Embark Metra”) onto your phone for schedule of all trains to Hyde Park.
27
5.2 Driving and Driver’s License
It is a matter of personal preference regarding whether or not you need/want to have a car in Chicago.
It is definitely not a necessity for everyday life, however, can be convenient if you live in the more
northern neighborhoods or want to explore outside the city/state limits. Most apartment/condo buildings
within downtown have parking available for a monthly fee. If the building in which you live does not
have parking available, it may be difficult to find. Some websites to search are
http://www.parkingspotter.com http://chicago.craigslist.org http://www.chicagoparkingmap.com
Illinois Driver’s License
For information on obtaining an Illinois driver’s license (within 90 days of your move) and/or registering
a car in the state of Illinois (within 30 days of your move), go to: http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com.
International partners can get Illinois driver’s license with or without their own national driver’s license,
as long as they know how to drive. Without a Social Security Number (SSN), an international partner can
apply only for a Temporary Visitors Driver’s License (TVDL). TVDL is valid for three years or for the
period of your authorized stay, whichever is shorter. TVDL can’t be used as ID, e.g. you cannot board a
plane or buy alcohol, but TVDL is considered a regular driver’s license for the purpose of driving or
renting a car. Once you get a SSN, you can apply to change your TVDL to a regular driver’s license.
To obtain the temporary drivers license, you must obtain an ineligibility letter from the social security
administrative office if you don't have SSN. Bring your passport, I-20 and I-94 if you still have that, to
the office and tell the officer that you want to have a temporary driver’s license. After obtaining the letter,
you can bring 1) the ineligibility letter, 2) your passport and I-20, and 3) two pieces of your mails within
90 days (bank statement, utility bill, lease agreement, etc.) to the state secretary office. There is one in the
west side of the city and another in the north. (Social Security Administration @ 77 W Jackson Blvd
Suite 300, phone 800-772-1213. Please note that as a dependent, you cannot take the test in the same day
as you apply. The officer will copy all your documents and send them for verification. They will send you
a confirmation through mail within two weeks. Then you can go again and take the paper exam or even
the driving test in the same day with the confirmation. But please remember the confirmation letter is only
valid for 30 days. For more information, please visit:
http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/drivers/drivers_license/drlicid.html
5.3 Renting a Car
If you need/want to rent a car, it is easy to find one near you, options are:
• Using one of the national/typical rental companies like Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, etc. Ask about
discounts to Booth students and all have locations conveniently located in downtown and in or
near Hyde Park.
• Use zipcar or i-go cars: many of the apartment/condo buildings in downtown have cars available
in the parking garages located in these buildings. Look for current incentives/discounts: for
zipcar, try 75zip11 in the coupon area for a $75 driving credit.
http://www.zipcar.com/ http://www.igocars.org/
28
6. SURVIVING THE CHICAGO WINTER
6.1 Buying (Winter) Clothing
Winters in Chicago have a bad reputation and if you have never lived in a location with a cold weather
season you may be intimidated, however, you will find that Chicagoans are very active all year long and
once you have the appropriate gear, the winters are not as bad as you might fear.
Some recommendations if you are not familiar with living in a location with a cold weather season:
• A warm jacket
• A good hat or ear muffs
• A good pair of gloves
• A good pair of warm boots/shoes
• A warm scarf/face mask
• Warm socks
Chicago is world renowned for shopping and you can find all of the major department stores here
including the second largest in the world, http://www.visitmacyschicago.com. Macy’s is known for
always having sales on all categories of clothing, etc. We suggest you download the Macy’s smartphone
application and click on the in-store saving pass. If there is an in-store savings pass available you can get
another 15% off. Show it to the sales clerk before you pay. International partners could go to Customer
Service and get a visitor’s pass with a 10% discount.
Also check out http://www.themagnificentmile.com/ which lists stores, located in the 900 North Michigan
Shops, Water Tower Place and The Shops at North Bridge. The North Face store is located at the base
of the John Hancock Center on Michigan Ave.
Other stores in downtown on State Street are Nordstrom Rack, Old Navy, Sears, TJ Maxx, Burlington
There are three main outlet malls near Chicago: make sure to check out the current promotions before
you go. Sign in at https://www.premiumoutlets.com/vip/index.asp and download available coupons. Also,
at Columbus Day (October) you can enjoy great discounts!
Chicago Premium Outlets, Aurora, Illinois, http://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=63
Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin,
http://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=90
Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, Michigan City, Indiana
http://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=18
29
6.2 Using the Pedway
Chicago’s downtown pedestrian way system, the Pedway, lies in the heart of the city. This system of
underground tunnels and overhead bridges links more than 40 blocks in the Central Business District,
covering roughly five miles.
Used by tens of thousands of pedestrians each day, the Pedway connects to public and private buildings,
CTA stations and commuter rail facilities.
The Pedway is a safe, quick and convenient way for pedestrians to travel downtown—especially in the
winter and during times of rain or snow. The Pedway also benefits traffic by reducing the conflict
between vehicles and pedestrians, resulting in fewer accidents and better traffic flow.
To see a detailed map go to http://www.spiegl.org/pedway/Pedwaymapandlegend.pdf
30
7. HEALTH INSURANCE AND OTHER FAMILY CONSIDERATIONS
7.1 Health Insurance considerations for you and your student partner
We know that health insurance is an important topic for everyone and because it is required that all
students carry health insurance at a minimum level during the MBA program, we would like to
provide you some suggestions when researching which option is best for you and your family. Your
student is provided all of the current information and given an explanation of the health insurance
options during orientation, so PLEASE ask them to share with you and discuss.
Options for consideration:
1. COBRA Continuation coverage through your current employer in the U.S.
If you and/or your partner are currently working in the U.S. and have health insurance through
either your employer or your partner’s employer or both, PLEASE ask your HR/Benefits
department what options are available for continuing coverage after leaving the job as well as the
contribution amounts for comparison. You will hear from many sources that “COBRA” coverage
is “very expensive,” and it usually is more expensive than what you pay as an active employee,
however, MAY be less than other options including student health insurance or private insurance
with greater coverage. Continuation coverage from an employer currently providing group health
benefits is mandated by law for most companies for a term of at least 18 months after termination
of employment for most reasons, including voluntary termination/quitting due to moving.
FAQs For Employees About Cobra Continuation Health Coverage go to
http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/faqs/faq-consumer-cobra.html
One couples’ experience:
My husband and I were both working full-time in the Midwest before moving to Chicago for him to start
the MBA program at Booth fall 2011 and had health insurance through my husband’s employer. I quit my
job in late Spring, and my husband kept working until the end of August. We signed up for COBRA
continuation coverage through my husband’s employer effective September 1 and were eligible for up to
18 months coverage. The premium for medical/prescription, dental and vision coverage for the two of us
was $572.26/month. We were able to utilize all of the major physician groups and hospitals in Chicago.
The premium for U-SHIP medical coverage ONLY for the two of us was $564.25/month. This was for
the Basic plan with no prescriptions covered, no dental or vision included. Due to the fact that
enrollment in U-SHIP is ONLY offered in the fall for students who begin school in the fall, we had to
switch to U-SHIP for the 2nd year because we would have run out of eligibility for COBRA continuation
coverage by the end of February of the 2nd year of school (2013) and did not want to be without medical
31
insurance until he starts his new job in August. Beginning Sept 1, 2012, we are paying $623.50/month
for U-SHIP medical insurance ONLY for the two of us. Another plus to being enrolled in U-SHIP,
especially during the 2nd year of school is that coverage is through Aug 31 of the year of Spring
graduation, and if necessary can be continued for 90 days beyond that for those who start jobs later.
2. Student Health Insurance, “University Student Health Insurance Plan (U-SHIP)”
The University requires all students to carry adequate health insurance to cover, among other costs,
hospitalization and outpatient diagnostic and surgical procedures. If you reside in Chicago during the
school year, the insurance must cover medical care other than for emergencies in the Chicago area.
Each year, students must satisfy the health insurance requirement in one of two ways:
1. Enroll in the University Student Health Insurance Plan (U-SHIP), or
2. Apply for a waiver by certifying that you have comparable coverage.
Important information about U-SHIP enrollment, waiving coverage, eligibility, etc. can be found at:
https://studentinsurance.uchicago.edu/
Detailed information about the U-SHIP plan is available at
http://studenthealth.uchicago.edu/page/insurance-2012-2013 and https://www.uhcsr.com/uchicago
Typically this information is updated each July for the next academic year.
Please note that students enrolled in Autumn quarter must make the health insurance enrollment or waiver
decision by the deadline (Example: October 26, 2012 if Autumn is the first Quarter in which the student is
enrolled at the university during the 2012-13 academic year). If they do not, they will be enrolled
automatically in the U-SHIP plan and will be held responsible for the premium payments of $2,757 for
the 2012-13 plan year (Sept 1, 2012-Aug 31, 2013). Students must complete this enrollment or waiver
process each year. Annual premiums are assessed in three installments during the academic year for a
period of coverage beginning on September 1 and ending on August 31. These charges are added to
Autumn, Winter, and Spring tuition bills.
The premiums for the 2012-2013 plan year are as follows: Typically, this information is updated
each July for the next academic year. http://studenthealth.uchicago.edu/page/premiums-2012-2013
Annual Premium
Per Quarter
Student
$2,757
$919
Student + 1 dependent
$7,482
$2,494
Student + 2 or more dependents
$11,550
$3,850
32
Please, be advised that the insurance program covers only 90% of costs of medical services
performed by preferred providers, meaning that each visit you will have to pay 10% by yourself.
To enroll a dependent spouse, domestic partner, or child in insurance plan U-SHIP, the student
must be enrolled in U-SHIP. Specific information/rules regarding dependent coverage can be
found here: http://studenthealth.uchicago.edu/page/dependent-coverage-2012-2013
Please Note: Unlike students, dependents are not automatically enrolled into U-SHIP. The student must
request that they be added to the policy each year. Unlike students, partners are not required to make a
health insurance enrollment or waiver decision, but we strongly recommend to have any health insurance
while you are in the USA. Medical costs are very expensive!
Please Note: U-SHIP is offered only to married partners. U-SHIP is not available to students in the parttime or evening programs of the Booth School of Business.
On-Campus Insurance Coordinators, http://studenthealth.uchicago.edu/page/insurance-coordinators
The University of Chicago hosts two on site United Healthcare Student Resources coordinators. The
insurance coordinators are here to answer questions and help navigate through the enrollment/waiver
process, claims, and any other insurance issues. While there is a wealth of information online, at the
United Healthcare Student Resources website, http://www.uhcsr.com/uchicago, students who would
prefer to get their insurance questions answered in person may come speak with the on-campus
representatives.
Office hours are between 8:30 am and 5 pm Monday through Friday.
Sue Williams and Shay Hubbard, Administration Bldg, room 231 and room 232
Telephone: (773) 834-4543 (press Option #2) Fax: (773) 753-4544
Questions may be submitted for the insurance coordinators via e-mail to [email protected]
Student Health and Counseling Services addresses the health and wellness needs of University of
Chicago students and eligible dependents if insured through U-SHIP. For more information about
Student Health and Counseling Services go to: http://studenthealth.uchicago.edu/
The Student Health Service provides appointment-based health services and treatment for students and
eligible dependents who have paid the student life fee. For more info see: http://healthcare.uchicago.edu/
Dependent spouses or same-sex domestic partners and dependent children age 14 and older, who are
insured through the University Student Health Insurance Plan (U-SHIP), are assessed the Dependent Life
Fee and are entitled to receive services at the Student Health Service and the Student Counseling Service.
The Dependent Life Fee will be charged to the student's bursar account, in addition to the Student
Insurance Premium. The 2012-13 Dependent Life Fee is $240 per quarter.
33
Information regarding the Student Life and Dependent Life Fees can be found at:
http://studenthealth.uchicago.edu/page/student-life-fee
While most of the services provided at Student Health and Student Counseling are covered by the Student
Life and/or Dependent Life fee, some services incur an additional charge.
If your insurance card has not arrived yet, you can go to the appointment without your card, but make
sure you take your student’s number for the paperwork.
Special considerations for maternity:
Insurance company does not cover some tests that you can have during your appointment. What you can
do in this case is to ask your doctor to write a letter with the explanation of the medical need for the test
and send this letter along with your appeal to cover the costs.
See Also Section 7.3 Health Insurance if you have children in your family, are pregnant or become
pregnant. Free Illinois State Insurance programs “All Kids” and “Moms & Babies”.
3. Private insurance
If you are a partner that wants health insurance and are not able to secure coverage through an employer,
or do not qualify for the USHIP option, some search options are listed below.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois http://www.bcbsil.com/ - for internationals it requires 6 months of
living in the US prior to signing into the policy and presenting a complete physical by a U.S. physician.
Additional maternity and dental options can be subscribed.
Coventry Health Care of Illinois http://chcillinois.coventryhealthcare.com/
United Healthcare http://www.uhc.com/ - for internationals it requires 12 months living in the U.S. prior
to signing into the policy. Maternity is not covered.
EHealth Insurance, www.ehealthinsurance.com
Note: Generally, obtaining private insurance with the same or similar coverage as USHIP will cost more.
Some cheaper Health Insurance options:
Seven Corners, https://www2.sevencorners.com/ This policy is available to non-U.S. citizens coming to
the United States for business, pleasure, to study, or to immigrate. The program must become effective
within 24 months of arrival in the United State and is best for: Non-U.S. citizen visitors & immigrants
coming to the U.S. Coverage is available a minimum of 5 days up to 5 years. Scheduled benefits pay a
pre-determined amount per covered procedure.
US NetCare, http://www.usnetcare.com/ Medical insurance for non-US citizens in America, expatriates,
foreign workers, visitors, students, alumni & scholars.
34
7.2 Living in Chicago with kids
Even though Chicago is a very big city, it is very friendly, especially for kids. There are many resources
to help find what you need and there are many great places to take kids in Chicago with many offering
free days or discounts.
University of Chicago Resources/Events
o
Family Resource Center: The University of Chicago has a Family Resource Center
(FRC) available to all graduate and professional students. The FRC is located in the
lower level of Ida Noyes hall. There is a large playroom open M-F during the school
year and low cost or no cost classes for kids to get involved and connect with other
families. Visit their website for more information
http://grad-affairs.uchicago.edu/page/family-resource-center
Also, the FRC has published their own Parent Resource Guide that is updated at the end
of summer. Sign up for the Student Parent List to stay up to date on family-friendly
activities in Hyde Park/on campus. SUBSCRIBE to the Student Parent list host
https://lists.uchicago.edu/web/info/studentparents (choose 'Subscribe')
Finding childcare and schools
•
Schools: for school recommendations check out the POLO Yahoo Groups website under “Links.”
You can also find more info in the FRC Parent Resource Guide for Hyde Park. For Chicago
Public schools, visit http://www.cps.edu. Ray and Murray elementary schools, part of the
Chicago Public Schools are in Hyde Park. In other areas of the city, check out the Neighborhood
Parents Network http://www.npnparents.org for detailed reviews.
•
Childcare/Daycare/Nannies: there are several great resources to find either full or part time
childcare. The prices for daycare vs. nanny services seem to be similar so price out both options
if you like. A couple of daycare facilities in Hyde park are American Kidz Academy
http://www.kidzacademy.com/ , Cuddle Care Academy and Kids International. In Hyde Park,
Baby PhD provides consultations regarding childcare and referrals for both daycare facilities and
nannies. http://www.babyphd.com. The FRC’s parent Resource Guide also has a list of Hyde
Park area daycare facilities. Parents/caregivers advertise via the FRC list serve, see above. Also
visit the UChi Marketplace http://www.marketplace.uchicago.edu and babysitter resources
http://www.sittercity.com and http://www.care.com, but both charge fee.
35
Having fun
o
Booth Events/LPF: Many Booth events are open to families and attending is a great way
to connect with students and other partners and get a free meal. In addition, eating lunch
with your student in the Booth cafeteria is a great way to connect during a busy week.
o
Campus – Walking around campus is a great way to spend an afternoon. Take your kids
on a stroll through the Quad and check out the ducks and turtles on Botany Pond. Walk
through Rockefeller Chapel or kick around a soccer ball on the midway.
•
Museums/Zoos – See Section 8. EXPLORING THE CITY
You can also check out Kraft Great Kids Museum passes from the Chicago public library – go to
www.chipublib.org for more information. Also, many museums have reciprocal agreements, so if
you buy a membership to one, you can get in free or at a discount to others.
•
Parks – Check out http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com to find a park or low cost classes
o
Hyde Park – the most popular park is Bixler Play Lot located at 57th and Kenwood. It’s
gated, has a sandbox, fountain, swings, playground and lots of discarded ride-on toys.
Harold Washington Play Lot near Regents Park is also good and larger than Bixler. Also
check out the beaches at 57th and 63rd (which has a playground and fountains). Jackson
Park has the Osaka Garden, which is worth a walk on a nice day.
o
Downtown – You can’t go wrong with Millennium Park, the Crown Fountain and the
Cloud Gate. There is a great shaded playgroup east of the park. There is also a
playground in Lakeshore East. Walk along the lakefront or visit Buckingham Fountain in
Grant Park.
o
Elsewhere – The Lincoln Park area has a lot of great parks, including Oz Park, and
several spray grounds where kids can play in fountains.
•
Play Cafes/Classes/Story times/Neighborhood Play Groups
o
Play cafes. When winter hits, these coffee shop/play space hybrids are fantastic. Check
out Little Beans Café http://www.littlebeanscafe.com, Kookaburra Play Café
http://www.kookaburraplaycafe.com and Family Grounds Café
http://www.familygroundscafe.com
o
Classes. Most places will let you try a class for free. Examples include Gymboree,
Bubbles Academy, Little Gym, Marsha’s Music Together, etc. The FRC’s Resource
Guide has list of classes in Hyde Park.
36
o
Story time, many library branches have weekly story times including the main Harold
Washington Library in the South Loop. For more information visit www.chipublib.org
In Hyde Park, 57th Street Books typically has free story time, visit or call
http://semcoop.com/about-57th-street-books
o
Play groups, there are several known play groups around the city;
Grace Place Playgroup http://gracechicago.org.temp.omnis.com/playgroup/
My Corner Playroom http://www.mycornerplayroom.com
Pump it Up http://www.pumpitupparty.com
South Loop Moms N Tots http://southloopmomsntots.com/
Moving around Chicago with kids (Transportation)
Moving around Chicago with kids is very easy, most places are accommodating to families.
Some tips to make riding public transit more kid friendly
•
On the Metra, kids under seven ride free and you are permitted three free kids per paying adult.
Not all Metra stops have an elevator, meaning you may have to carry your stroller up/down stairs.
T 57th Street stop in Hyde Park has an elevator, the 59th Street stop has only stairs. Once you are
in the Metra, it’s easiest to sit in the handicapped seating, which allows room for a stroller.
Otherwise, you will have to collapse your stroller to sit in normal seating. Some partners prefer
Metra than buses, as in CTA bus you may be asked to fold the stroller if the bus is too crowded,
which usually happens.
•
Bus/CTA trains, kids under 7 ride free with a fare-paying customer. Ask the bus driver to lower
the bus hydraulics to help you get your stroller onto the bus. For the CTA trains, many stations do
not have elevators. Check – www.transitchicago.com
Shopping for kids
In the city, Chicago has tons of great shopping options but if you are looking for Babies R Us, Buy Buy
Baby, etc. you will have to venture out to the suburbs. Hyde Park in particular is lacking in stores for kid
essentials, there is a Target in the South Loop and most parents from Hyde Park shop in the South Loop
area. Shop Michigan Avenue or State Street for kids clothes (Old Navy, Gap, Macy’s, Sears, Burlington
etc.). North Avenue in Lincoln Park has Carter’s, Children’s Place, Gap Kids, Gymboree and Old Navy.
Online tips: join Amazon mom and get diapers and other necessities delivered to your door. If you create
a Baby Registry on Amazon, you will get 10% off to buy whatever is on the Registry. Also, they allow
to return items after 1 year if you create a Registry.
37
Peapod will also deliver groceries and they offer baby food, etc. Do not forget to sign up for the daily
flash deal sites (Family Finds, Groupon, Living Social, Mamapedia, etc.) as they often have discounts on
family friendly places.
Little Miss Chocolat: a former partner launched her business-selling baby clothing
http://www.littlemisschocolat.com/en/. A discount is offered to Booth Partners, promotional code
“POLO & PARTNERS.”
Check out these additional resources
•
http://www.chicagokids.com
•
http://www.gocitykids.com
•
http://www.npnparents.org
•
http://www.bumpclubandbeyond.com
•
http://www.chicagoparent.com
•
http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/wee-windy-city
•
http://www.greenparentchicago.com
•
http://www.selfmademom.net
•
http://www.timeoutchicagokids.com
7.3 Health Insurance if you have children in your family, are pregnant or become
pregnant. Free Illinois State Insurance programs “All Kids” and “Moms & Babies”.
The state of Illinois has several social programs available to assist families in caring for their households.
Nothing is more important than making sure your family has access to healthcare. Programs like these
make that possible. For detailed information and applications go to http://www.allkids.com/
1. Families with children – All Kids:
All Kids covers children who need health insurance. If you have no income or very low income, the state
will pay everything your child could need, from shots to doctor appointments and medicine. Some
families who pay for private health insurance for their children may qualify for assistance in paying their
premiums (use it as a secondary insurance). Make sure you apply to All Kids as soon as you arrive in
Chicago, since it takes about 6 weeks to process and to be approved.
All Kids is Illinois' program for children who need comprehensive, affordable health insurance, regardless
of immigration status or health condition. Every child deserves the chance to grow up healthy. With All
Kids, your children will be able to get the care they need, when they need it. It means you can take your
child to the doctor for a regular check-up, to the dentist to fill a cavity or to the eye doctor to get a
prescription for glasses. For more information go to http://www.allkids.com/hfs8269.html
38
You may apply online at https://secure.myhfs.illinois.gov/allkidsapplicant/index.jsp?lang=en,
OR,
You can go to the Department of Human Services (DHS) Family Community Resource Center,
located in the South Loop at 1112 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605 and apply in person. Go early as it
will be busy, hours are 8:30am-5:00pm M-F, telephone number 312-793-7500. They are able to answer
any questions you might have during the application process and you submit your completed application
to them.
OR,
You can go to any non-profit clinic that will help you with all paperwork and interview. Some partners
used:
- Friend and Family Health Center at 800 E. 55th Street
- Erie Family Health Center has different locations in Chicago
After submitting your application either online or at the DHS Family Community Resource Center:
•
•
Within two weeks, you should get a letter in the mail that states what day/time you are invited to
an interview with DHS. They will ask questions regarding you and your partner’s income, and
ask for supporting documentation (what documents are required will be stated in the letter). You
are told during your interview whether you are approved or whether additional documentation is
needed.
Within two weeks following your interview, you will get a letter with your insurance number.
Once you are approved for All Kids, you need to choose a health care plan and primary health
care provider. You can search online for doctors and hospitals in your neighborhood that accept
All Kids.
Medical recommendations for specific physicians can be found on the POLO Yahoo Group website under
the “Links” tab. Most parents choose pediatricians associated with Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
Popular choices include Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group and Town and Country (both in
Lincoln Park). There are limited options in Hyde Park (except for specialists at Comer).
2. Families expecting - All Kids has two programs for pregnant women with low
income:
•
•
Medicaid Presumptive Eligibility (MPE) offers immediate, temporary coverage for outpatient
healthcare for pregnant women.
Moms & Babies covers healthcare for women while they are pregnant and for 60 days after the
baby is born. Moms & Babies covers both outpatient healthcare and inpatient hospital care,
including delivery.
These two programs give pregnant women the care they need to keep their babies healthy. You can apply
for both programs at the same time. If you are eligible, MPE will cover you for pregnancy care starting
the day you apply until your Moms & Babies application is reviewed.
You may apply online at https://secure.myhfs.illinois.gov/allkidsapplicant/index.jsp?lang=en,
39
OR,
You can go to the Department of Human Services (DHS) Family Community Resource Center,
located in the South Loop at 1112 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605 and apply in person. Go early as it
will be busy, hours are 8:30am-5:00pm M-F, telephone number 312-793-7500. They are able to answer
any questions you might have during the application process and you submit your completed application
to them.
You will need “proof of pregnancy” in the form of a signed statement from a doctor or health clinic with
the expected date of delivery and the number of the babies expected to submit with your application. A
couple of options for obtaining this verification are:
a. private doctor, cost paid by you or submitted to your insurance.
b. Clinics or other organizations (non-profit or for profit) that perform pregnancy tests and provide
acceptable verification statements for free, a few facilities are listed below:
Caris, for information visit http://www.caris.org
Planned Parenthood of Illinois, for information visit http://www.plannedparenthood.org/illinois/
Family Planning Associates Medical Group, for information visit
http://fpachicago.com/index.php
After submitting your application either online or in person to the DHS Family Community Resource
Center:
• Within two weeks, you should get a letter in the mail that states what day/time you are invited to
an interview with DHS. They will ask questions regarding you and your partner’s income, and
ask for supporting documentation (what documents are required will be stated in the letter). You
are told during your interview whether you are approved or whether additional documentation is
needed.
• Within two weeks following your interview, you will get a letter with your insurance number.
Once you are approved for All Kids, you need to choose a health care plan and primary health
care provider. You will be provided with the list of clinics that accept Moms & Babies Insurance.
• The process could take up to 6 weeks. During this period you will not have an assigned clinic or
doctor that is why partners strongly recommended applying for Moms & Babies Insurance
through a non-profit clinic. See detailed instructions below:
ALTERNATIVE APPLICATION OPTION for Families expecting, pregnant women:
There is another option to apply to the All Kids/Moms & Babies program that some partners have used.
There are certain non-profit organizations that complete the paperwork for you and you finish the
application process in one visit. One such organization is the Erie Family Health Center (established as a
volunteer clinic by doctors from Northwestern Memorial Hospital); closest location to downtown/loop is
1701 West Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60622, telephone number 312-666-3494.
The first visit will consist of having a free pregnancy test, obtaining the pregnancy verification statement,
and completing the All Kids application. They will then schedule an appointment for you with a doctor.
40
A suggested advantage to going to the Erie Family Health Center is that they coordinate everything in one
location, the application to All Kids, interview, negotiation with the hospital you choose for delivery, etc.
It is much more complicated when you do it yourself. And what is more important, you have your doctor
once you applied through temporary MPE program. Once approved by DHS, you will be enrolled into
Moms & Babies Program.
At the first doctor's appointment, they will give you instructions on how the process will work and you
are assigned your own doctor in that location of the Erie Family Health Center. If you choose the
insurance plan "Illinois Health Connect", all procedures including delivery, necessary ultrasound(s), and
other tests will be performed at Northwestern Prentice Women’s Hospital – most partners, no matter what
their insurance is, choose this hospital for delivery. The results are sent to your assigned doctor at Erie
Family Health Center.
Other great things about enrolling into Moms & Babies Program, as part of All Kids Insurance:
1) Prenatal Classes at Northwestern Memorial Hospital would cost only 10$ per class (instead of
50$ – 120$) if you are an Erie Family Health Center patient
2) Free Pediatric services during delivery
3) Free pregnancy belly bands and medicine provided
4) Free breastfeeding classes
5) You become eligible for WIC program that provides monthly free food and nutrition service
6) You become eligible for Chicago Family Case Management Program that provides CTA bus
cards for doctor’s appointments, referrals for education, counseling, car seats, home visitation
Important Note: If you have other insurance, you can still apply to the All Kids program and ask to use
it as secondary insurance. This way, some part or all of what your primary insurance will not cover,
may be covered by All Kids (in case your doctor/clinic accepts All Kids Insurance Program). Remember
to tell your doctor about two insurances. If you have any questions, call the All Kids Hotline 1-866-2555437.
ALL Kids as a SECONDARY INSURANCE
Some partners applied for All Kids and used it as a secondary insurance. In general, the main purpose of
the secondary insurance is to cover all costs that for some reason were not covered by the primary one
(deductibles, out-of-pocket payments, services that are not covered by policy). But there is a big IF - the
provider should accept the All Kids insurance. Whether All Kids is accepted or not you can find out by
making a call and asking them. U-SHIP insurance will pay for 90% of delivery expenses, the rest 10%
could be covered by All kids if you apply. For example, the doctor you chose for delivery does not accept
All Kids, but you can still use it to cover labor costs [Northwestern Memorial Hospital accepts All Kids].
41
During application to All Kids you should indicate you have a primary insurance and want to use All
Kids as a secondary one. Pick the plan according to requirements of the hospital where you chose to
deliver. During the labor registration you should tell them you have two insurances. The Hospital sends
the bill to primary insurance. If the primary didn't cover the bill entirely or partially, they return the bill or
its remainder to the Hospital. Then Hospital sends it again to the secondary insurance. If you still get a
bill and a suggestion to pay, it can happen if they submitted the supporting medical records in the
incorrect way. It will just require some your additional time to investigate, but they usually end up paying
your bills.
If you would like to speak to someone familiar with the process, please contact us at
[email protected] and we will put you in contact with someone who has gone through the
process.
Also, for recommendations for specific doctors for women’s services while pregnant and for children,
please reach out to the Parents of Little Ones (POLO) group at [email protected]
7.4 Taking care of your pet
If you have a dog or cat in your family, here are a few veterinarians and boarding/training facilities that
other partners have used:
Veterinarians
•
Burnham Park Animal Hospital: http://burnhamparkvet.com/
•
Cat Hospital of Chicago: http://www.cathospitalofchicago.com
•
Chicago Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Center:
http://www.chicagoveterinaryemergency.com/
•
Gold Coast Animal Hospital: 312-337-7387
•
South Loop Animal Hospital: http://www.mysouthloopvet.com
•
West Loop Veterinary Care: http://www.westloopvet.com
Boarding/Training
•
Citizen Canine: http://www.citizencaninechicago.com/
•
DoGone Fun: http://www.dogonefunchicago.com/index.php
•
Pooch Hotel: http://www.poochhotel.com/index.php (Daycare and Boarding only)
•
Tucker Pups: http://tuckerpups.com/
42
8. EXPLORING THE CITY
Chicago is a very beautiful city with lots to offer and plenty of things to do. Before you start exploring
the city, stop at the Visitor Center in the Chicago Cultural Center for information regarding what to do in
Chicago and for brochures or magazines with discounts. http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en.html
We cannot list everything to do in Chicago, you can easily search the internet or city guide. In the next
few pages, we highlight some of the most popular resources and events we have experienced.
8.1 Getting to know the City
Chicago Greeter, http://www.chicagogreeter.com
Explore Chicago with a friendly, knowledgeable local as your guide! This FREE service matches visitors
with enthusiastic, city-wise volunteers for 2-4 hour guided visits of Chicago.
Let a friendly, knowledgeable local give you an insider’s orientation to Chicago! Register 10 business
days in advance for a FREE 2-4 hour guided visit of Chicago. Greeter visits are customized based on your
choice of neighborhoods, language and interests. They have over 200 enthusiastic volunteers waiting to
share their expertise and passion about the city with you!
Looking for more flexibility, or making plans to visit Chicago at the last minute? Let InstaGreeter take
you on a FREE hour-long guided walk of Downtown or popular neighborhoods and attractions.
InstaGreeter is offered on Friday-Sundays, and registration is not required.
Free Museum days
Many of Chicago’s cultural institutions, historic sites and museums have “free days” throughout the year
for residents. In order to get a free pass, bring any letter stating your name and current address in Chicago
(lease agreement works too!) and your ID. Though they may not charge a general admission fee, some
places may charge a fee(s) to view certain/special exhibits. Free dates are subject to change without
notice, based upon individual museum schedules so you should check with each specific
museum/institution prior to going.
For a consolidated list of free days, visit: http://www.chicagohotblog.com/chicago-musuem-free-days
•
Adler Planetarium: http://www.adlerplanetarium.org/
•
Art Institute of Chicago: http://www.artic.edu/
•
Brookfield Zoo: http://www.brookfieldzoo.org
43
•
Chicago Children’s Museum: http://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org/
•
Chicago History Museum: http://www.chicagohs.org/
•
DuSable Museum of African American History: http://www.dusablemuseum.org/
•
Field Museum: http://fieldmuseum.org/
•
Garfield Park Conservatory: http://www.garfield-conservatory.org/
•
Lincoln Park Zoo: Free to the public 365 days per year, http://www.lpzoo.org/
•
Museum of Contemporary Art: http://www.mcachicago.org/
•
Museum of Contemporary Photography: http://www.mocp.org/
•
Museum of Science and Industry: http://www.msichicago.org/
•
National Museum of Mexican Art: http://www.nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org/
•
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: http://www.naturemuseum.org/
•
Shedd Aquarium: http://www.sheddaquarium.org/
•
Swedish American Museum: http://www.swedishamericanmuseum.org/
Some tips from partners with kids about favorite places to visit:
Lincoln Park Zoo. It is always free and offers a children’s zoo, a farm with petting zoo, and free sing
along times on Wednesday and Fridays. Look for free parking or metered parking just west of the zoo
instead of paying for the zoo lot.
Brookfield Zoo. It is not free but is much larger than Lincoln Zoo. And has a great children’s pavilion.
Also lots of indoor exhibits still open during winter when many of the extra exhibits are free.
Navy Pier. It is fun not only for tourists, but it is also home to the Chicago Children’s Museum, which is
awesome. They have free days but they are super crowded. Instead, look at Groupon for 10 visits for 50$
which is half off.
Museum of Science and Industry. It has the Idea Factory, which is hands-on for all ages, as well as trains,
planes, and baby chicks.
Museum Campus (Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium). All have special exhibits for
kids and have weekly story times. Adler has a neat kids area. Field Museum includes Crown Family
Playlab.
Art Institute of Chicago. It has always-free Ryan Education Center featuring a large playroom with books,
blocks and art supplies.
Hyde Park Art Center. It offers free second Sunday family events.
44
Chicago Restaurants
As you may or may not know, Chicago is known for having some of the best restaurants in the world, not
to mention almost the largest number than in any other city in the world.
Chicago Eater has lists of their “best” restaurants and commentary http://chicago.eater.com/
Open Table also has a great database at http://www.opentable.com/chicago-restaurants?mn=11
Chicago Restaurant and Chef Weeks
Chicago Restaurant Week, typically held in February, offers the opportunity to experience Chicago’s
world-class culinary scene at great prices, with special prix-fixe menus at over 150 participating
restaurants (3 course lunch for only 22$ and dinners for 33$-44$).
http://www.opentable.com/promo.aspx?pid=270&m=3
Chicago Chef Week, typically held in March, also offers prix-fixe menus at reduced prices at
participating restaurants. http://chicagochefweek.com/
Chicago Cultural Center, a great place to stop by, especially during the winter for a free weekly
building tour. They host different art exhibitions and also the Visitor Cultural Center where you can get
brochures of the city and events. They also offer free music and dance events.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade, one of THE most famous annual events in Chicago when the Chicago River is
dyed green. http://www.chicagostpatsparade.com/
8.2 Enjoying free events during the summer
For those of you that arrive into Chicago earlier, here are a few events that take place during the summer.
Grant Park Music Festival, http://www.grantparkmusicfestival.com/
The Grant Park Music Festival is the nation’s only free, outdoor classical music series of its kind. Each
summer, the Festival provides free classical music to all of Chicago in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in
Millennium Park. From June 12, – August 17, 2013
Millennium Park workouts, Participate in FREE workouts on the Great Lawn from 7am to 11am, from
June 8 till Sept 7, 2013. Workouts are 45 minutes long with classes in Tai Chi, Yoga, Pilates and Zumba.
http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/millennium_park4.html
45
Movies in the Park, The 12th annual Movies in the Parks series kicks off Monday, June 11 and will
feature 176 screenings of current and classic movies in 128 citywide parks through Oct. 26. Admission is
free, and all movies begin at dusk weather permitting. http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/movies/
Taste of Chicago, is the nation's premier outdoor food festival showcasing the diversity of Chicago's
dining community. The delicious array of food served at Taste of Chicago is complemented by music and
exciting activities for the entire family. Every summer since 1980, Chicago's beautiful Grant Park on the
city's magnificent lakefront has been home to the world's largest food festival. July 10 - 14, 2013,
Chicago, IL - Grant Park 11am - 9pm
http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/taste_of_chicago.html
44th Annual Chicago Pride Parade - 2013, http://www.chicagopridecalendar.org/
Every year in Chicago, June Pride Month features dozens of social, cultural, athletic and political events.
The parade is typically held each year the last Sunday in June, there are different events during the whole
month of June.
Navy Pier Fireworks http://www.navypier.com/things2do/fireworks.html
From May 29 to August 31, 2013 Navy Pier will be the destination for spectacular fireworks perfectly
synchronized to music on Lake Michigan. Every Wednesday at 9.30 pm and Saturday at 10.15 pm.
Chicago Air and Water Show
It is the largest FREE show of its kind in the United States. August 17 – 18, 2013 from 10 am to 3 pm.
http://www.choosechicago.com/articles/view/CHICAGO-AIR-AND-WATER-SHOW/274/
Chicago Jazz Festival
Free admission. August 29 – September 1, 2013. http://chicagojazzfestival.com
8.3 Finding good deals
If you are interested in finding good deals, you should subscribe to Groupon and Living Social if you
have not already.
•
Groupon: Subscribe by visiting http://www.groupon.com/chicago
•
Living Social: Sign up by visiting http://www.livingsocial.com
9. STAYING FIT AND FINDING A HAIR SALON
46
9.1 Staying Fit
Many of the apartment/condo buildings in downtown Chicago and Hyde Park will have a fitness center
and Chicago has great running and biking trails along Lake Michigan as well as in other city parks.
Membership to the University of Chicago Ratner Athletics Center is available to partners for a very
reasonable fee, (2012-13 effective July 1, 2012, $115 full year). For current fees and operating hours visit
http://athletics.uchicago.edu/facilities/facilities.htm
Some recommendations from partners for workout facilities are listed below. Many places will offer a
free trial period and/or a free workout class and new member discounts so ask!
•
Equinox: http://www.equinox.com/regions/chicago
•
Fitness Formula Clubs (FFC): http://ffc.com/
•
LA Fitness: http://www.lafitness.com/Pages/findclubresultszip.aspx?city=CHICAGO&state=IL
Tip: before signing in you can get a three-day pass online to try the different facilities. Make sure
you sign in online as they generally have better promotions (no sign in fee and 10$ per week).
•
Sixpax Core Studio: http://sixpaxchicago.com/
•
XSport Fitness: http://www.xsportfitness.com/locations/chicago_map.asp
9.2 Finding a place to get your haircut, “hair salon”
Finding a salon that you like can sometimes be a challenge. Here are recommendations of salons that
other partners have used.
•
Charles Ifergan Salon: ask for Jessica http://www.charlesifergan.com/
•
Kelly Cardenas Salon: All stylists are excellent http://kellycardenassalon.com/
•
Luisa Salon by Spa Di La Fronza: ask for Luisa http://www.luisa-salon.com/LS/Home.html
•
Maxine: ask for Michelle http://maxinesalon.com
•
Salon U: ask for Dalia or Stephani http://www.salonuchicago.com
•
Sassoon Academy: 181 N Clark St Chicago, IL 60601, 312-726-2279, haircuts take a longer than
usual amount of time as a student performs them, with an instructor checking each stage of the
process. The price is deeply discounted if you have the time and want to get a great price.
•
Sine Qua Non: ask for Summer or Sam http://sinequanonsalon.com
•
Spoil Me Hair Salon: ask for Adel http://www.spoilmehairsalon.com
•
Swerve Salon: ask for Megan http://swervesalon.com
10. BOOTH PARTNERS CLUB AND PARTNER FRIENDLY EVENTS
47
10.1 Joining the Booth Partners club
The first weeks/months in Chicago could be a little bit difficult – the Booth Partner Club offers you the
opportunity to build long lasting friendship very early!
Booth Partners is an official club of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business comprised of
spouses and significant others (all types are welcome) of Booth students. In addition to providing a
variety of special events throughout the school year, we also have a diverse range of special interest
groups that organize monthly social activities. Once you become a member, you are welcome to
participate in all special events and special interest group activities.
Membership fees are modest for the value, a lifetime membership is only $115 and a one-year
membership is only $80. Think of your dues as an evening out in Chicago. Joining the club is an
incredibly budget-friendly way to make some instant friends and have some fun in the city!
For more info or to join, please visit our website http://student.chicagobooth.edu/group/chipart/index.php
Join our Facebook Group “Chicago Booth Partners”.
10.2 Sub-clubs
The Booth Partners club responds to the needs of a diverse set of individuals by offering sub-clubs:
•
Arts & Dance: Gather with fellow partners to visit many of the great museums or attend one of
the many shows that Chicago has to offer, as well as other art and dance related activities.
•
Book & Movie: Enjoy reading? The book club selects one title per month to read. There is a
monthly discussion meeting to share your thoughts and views on the book. They also organize
movie outings.
•
Career Services: Are you looking for a job in Chicago? Booth Partners has created a career
services initiative to help members looking for a job. We offer resume review, mock interviews,
contact with important recruiters in Chicago, career oriented groups and job postings.
•
Community Service & Booth Support: What better way to use your time, volunteer around the
city at different organizations.
•
Donate your skills: Do you have a special talent that you would like to donate to our members?
In our donate your skills initiative, members of the club donate their skills to other members. As a
result, we offer cooking lessons, language lessons, arts lessons (drawing, painting, photography,
dancing), etc.
•
Explore Chicago: Come out and get to know the city you are living in! This club offers many
fun ways to learn about the city through walking and biking tours, scavenger hunts and more.
48
•
Health & Sports: Come join fellow partners in sports activities (running, biking, tennis, etc.) and
in health and nutrition discussions.
•
Martners (Male Partners): Booth Partners is not just for girls. We have a growing base of male
partners. They get together for drinks, game watching, sports and other activities.
•
POLO (Parents of Little Ones): If you have children, this will be a helpful resource. Events are
designed for both parents and children.
•
Wine & Dine: "The enjoyment of good food and comfort." Come attend a potluck! Come join
fellow partners for a wine tasting or sample the flavors of Chicago through various dining
experiences.
10.3 Parents of Little Ones (POLO) sub-club:
POLO is a network of parents that foster connections and friendships among Booth families by planning
weekly playgroups, hosting family parties and providing support to each other. POLO has an online
group where you can ask questions, find links and information specific to being a parent in Chicago.
There are playgroups, special events, parents’ nights in/out and parties for Valentine’s Day, a spring egg
Hunt and Halloween. Events are varied to accommodate as many family schedules as possible.
10.4 Other “Partner” friendly events
Booth has many events that are open to partners/where partners are welcome, see the list below.
The Partners club will try to keep you up to date on the events open to partners and ask your student!
Golden Gargoyles: A theme party typically held in November.
Halloween party: A Halloween party held near Oct 31st each year hosted by the Belgian club.
LPF: Liquidity preference functions with snacks and beverages; held many Friday afternoons from
4:30-6:00pm in the winter garden at Harper Center.
Pink party: A party hosted by the OUTreach club, typically held in the beginning of March.
Semi-formal: A party for first year Boothies, typically held at Navy Pier in mid-late September.
Spring Fling: A semi-formal party held on a boat departing from Navy Pier, typically held in March.
TNDC: Thursday night drinking club, every Thursday night hosted at a different location.
Winter formal: A party in formal attire, typically held in mid-late February each year.
49