7 answers
Elise
Student
Great Barrington, Massachusetts
3
Questions
Updated
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What College Would Be Best For Me?
I was wondering what college might be best for me. I am a very hard worker and believe that I would be capable of getting into a tough to get into school. I am very interested in going to a school in Chicago and I would really love to go to the University of Chicago. The only problem is that I don't know if the classes that are in the area of Law enforcement and Phycology are the best that I can receive. I was wondering if anyone had recommendations or ideas on what college might cover areas that have to deal with law and criminal justice the best. My ideal school as I said before would be somewhere in Chicago with a good cross country or track team, and have a low-ish acceptance rate.
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7 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Elise !
I see by your tags that you have Law and Law Enforcement as two careers that you have in mind, the two being very different and would need specific majors. Your first step in choosing a College is to be sure of a Major and then you can ascertain which actual college has the program for your career.
If you want to have a career as a Lawyer, you would Major in Political Science or Government for your Bachelors Degree. While you are majoring in it, you can take a psychology course which very well may fulfill the General Education requirements. You do not need to major in Psychology in order to be a Lawyer but you can take some courses while in college.
Your inquiry indicates that you are asking about Law Enforcements and that would mean you'd major in Administration of Justice, again, you can take courses in psychology while at college. You've also mentioned Psychology and if you want to be a Psychologist, you would get your Bachelors Degree in Psychology before going on for your Masters Degree. So which career do you want ? They are all awesome career choices, but the education has to be focused to qualify you for one career. I advise against double majoring and would recommend not minoring in anything because there is a lot to learn for these particular careers and you should gear your studies to the specific career. You do not need to Minor. Your first step with choosing a college is to choose one career.
You will need to go to the University of Chicago's website and read about the Programs for Administration of Justice, Government, Political Science and if you want to be a Psychologist, the Psychology Program. A stranger CAN NOT choose a college for you, unfortunately.
Since you've asked for information about hard to get into colleges in Chicago, you'll need to review the different colleges' acceptance rates. You want one that takes the least students, you've said. Well, the University of Chicago has the one of the lowest acceptance rates I have ever seen - very, very competitive to get into with an acceptance rate of 4.48% . That means that out of thousands of applications, only 4.48% are accepted. So you may want to explore U of C more. All universities are good, by the way. You won't know if you'll like a college until you explore it. The other universities in Chicago have a high acceptance rate and are easy to get into.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has an acceptance rate of 42%, Northwestern University is 9%, Judson University is 38%, Benedictine University is 41%, the University of Saint Francis is 45% and the other colleges have a higher acceptance rate.
So choose the college based on a geared major for the career you want to do. You can return here when you pinpoint a career and perhaps get pertinent advice. Remember that you can read the colleges' major programs on their website and view the campuses on You Tube videos if they have a channel, which most colleges do. The elements that make a college "good" is based on your own preferences and circumstances, but they all have accreditation, credentialed professors, lots of supports on campus and professors that have been professionals in their field and subject they teach. You will need to determine if the college is "good" for you.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
I see by your tags that you have Law and Law Enforcement as two careers that you have in mind, the two being very different and would need specific majors. Your first step in choosing a College is to be sure of a Major and then you can ascertain which actual college has the program for your career.
If you want to have a career as a Lawyer, you would Major in Political Science or Government for your Bachelors Degree. While you are majoring in it, you can take a psychology course which very well may fulfill the General Education requirements. You do not need to major in Psychology in order to be a Lawyer but you can take some courses while in college.
Your inquiry indicates that you are asking about Law Enforcements and that would mean you'd major in Administration of Justice, again, you can take courses in psychology while at college. You've also mentioned Psychology and if you want to be a Psychologist, you would get your Bachelors Degree in Psychology before going on for your Masters Degree. So which career do you want ? They are all awesome career choices, but the education has to be focused to qualify you for one career. I advise against double majoring and would recommend not minoring in anything because there is a lot to learn for these particular careers and you should gear your studies to the specific career. You do not need to Minor. Your first step with choosing a college is to choose one career.
You will need to go to the University of Chicago's website and read about the Programs for Administration of Justice, Government, Political Science and if you want to be a Psychologist, the Psychology Program. A stranger CAN NOT choose a college for you, unfortunately.
Since you've asked for information about hard to get into colleges in Chicago, you'll need to review the different colleges' acceptance rates. You want one that takes the least students, you've said. Well, the University of Chicago has the one of the lowest acceptance rates I have ever seen - very, very competitive to get into with an acceptance rate of 4.48% . That means that out of thousands of applications, only 4.48% are accepted. So you may want to explore U of C more. All universities are good, by the way. You won't know if you'll like a college until you explore it. The other universities in Chicago have a high acceptance rate and are easy to get into.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has an acceptance rate of 42%, Northwestern University is 9%, Judson University is 38%, Benedictine University is 41%, the University of Saint Francis is 45% and the other colleges have a higher acceptance rate.
So choose the college based on a geared major for the career you want to do. You can return here when you pinpoint a career and perhaps get pertinent advice. Remember that you can read the colleges' major programs on their website and view the campuses on You Tube videos if they have a channel, which most colleges do. The elements that make a college "good" is based on your own preferences and circumstances, but they all have accreditation, credentialed professors, lots of supports on campus and professors that have been professionals in their field and subject they teach. You will need to determine if the college is "good" for you.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1060
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hi Elise:
As far as your athletic goals and endeavors (Cross Country and Track and Field), I recommend doing the following:
Create what is called an Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, to send to the various coaches, at the campuses you are interested in attending.
It is exactly like a Job Resume , except with a Job Resume and Cover Letter, you will be outlining your skills, abilities and education and trying out for a job. With the Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, you will be applying and trying our for the college or university sports team.
There are many examples of these Athletic Resume's and Cover Letters found online. Basically you will be emphasizing to the coach all about your athletic abilities, strengths, positions you played, school and state accomplishments and successes, athletic awards, future goals, and your future academic plans. Introduce the resume, and yourself, to the coach by utilizing the cover letter.
When you complete the Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, send it to the various coaches, via postal service letter, directly to their on campus office at the athletic facilities. You see they literally receive thousands of emails each week, but if you contact them via a written letter, it will land directly on their desk, and they are most likely going to respond and send you information on their program and about academic possibilities on their campus.
I did this with many of my advisee, over the years, with a great amount of success. College coaches do seem to enjoy getting a personal letter in the regular mail, than getting an email. It shows you are serious and are willing to make an effort in continuing your athletic career. I hope this has been helpful, Good luck in achieving your future athletic and academic goals.
As far as your athletic goals and endeavors (Cross Country and Track and Field), I recommend doing the following:
Create what is called an Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, to send to the various coaches, at the campuses you are interested in attending.
It is exactly like a Job Resume , except with a Job Resume and Cover Letter, you will be outlining your skills, abilities and education and trying out for a job. With the Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, you will be applying and trying our for the college or university sports team.
There are many examples of these Athletic Resume's and Cover Letters found online. Basically you will be emphasizing to the coach all about your athletic abilities, strengths, positions you played, school and state accomplishments and successes, athletic awards, future goals, and your future academic plans. Introduce the resume, and yourself, to the coach by utilizing the cover letter.
When you complete the Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, send it to the various coaches, via postal service letter, directly to their on campus office at the athletic facilities. You see they literally receive thousands of emails each week, but if you contact them via a written letter, it will land directly on their desk, and they are most likely going to respond and send you information on their program and about academic possibilities on their campus.
I did this with many of my advisee, over the years, with a great amount of success. College coaches do seem to enjoy getting a personal letter in the regular mail, than getting an email. It shows you are serious and are willing to make an effort in continuing your athletic career. I hope this has been helpful, Good luck in achieving your future athletic and academic goals.
DENNIS BREEN
Lawyer
228
Answers
Cary, North Carolina
Updated
DENNIS’s Answer
Hi Elise:
Both answers above are excellent. I am a lawyer for over 40 years and teach part time at a community college - which are great values. However....I am also a parent who put 2 kids through college. My advice to you is go visit any and all schools you might be interested in. Schools are somewhat like clothes - they need to fit! Sounds strange but every kid I know - not just my own - just knew when they got there. It's weird! However, when you walk around on campus you'll know.
All the schools listed by Michelle are great schools. John Jay in New York is a great criminal justice school. However, I'd strongly suggest you and your parents take road trips and visit. The trips are great fun and eye opening. As a track star you'll also want to find a place you can run.
Now pack your family car and head out on a road trip - you'll have a great time and know which school is right for you!
Both answers above are excellent. I am a lawyer for over 40 years and teach part time at a community college - which are great values. However....I am also a parent who put 2 kids through college. My advice to you is go visit any and all schools you might be interested in. Schools are somewhat like clothes - they need to fit! Sounds strange but every kid I know - not just my own - just knew when they got there. It's weird! However, when you walk around on campus you'll know.
All the schools listed by Michelle are great schools. John Jay in New York is a great criminal justice school. However, I'd strongly suggest you and your parents take road trips and visit. The trips are great fun and eye opening. As a track star you'll also want to find a place you can run.
Now pack your family car and head out on a road trip - you'll have a great time and know which school is right for you!
Rita Webber
1
Answer
Burbank, California
Updated
Rita’s Answer
I suggest visiting the University of Chicago website to explore their law and law enforcement degrees. Being from Chicago, I can tell you it's a fantastic school. Reach out to them via email to get all the details you need.
David Padilla
ABA
20
Answers
Santa Ana, California
Updated
David’s Answer
Hello,
Do research online. When I joined GCU, I researched for psychology majors accredited schools. It was the best decision I made. Look within yourself and decide what branch of psychology you want to focus on.
Best,
David Padilla
Do research online. When I joined GCU, I researched for psychology majors accredited schools. It was the best decision I made. Look within yourself and decide what branch of psychology you want to focus on.
Best,
David Padilla
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1207
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Elise,
That you're planning ahead and using your interests and strengths to help you focus your college search already, is commendable. You have an excellent attitude, you work hard and push for a demanding, well-rounded learning environment. A top academic option, the University of Chicago is recognized for its demanding core curriculum, top-notch faculty, and great reputation, particularly in the fields of law, philosophy, and social sciences.
However, compared to applied criminal justice or law enforcement tracks, UChicago is geared toward academic and theoretical psychology. Here are some other great schools in or close to Chicago to take into consideration if you're searching for practical or pre-professional programs in criminal justice, forensic psychology, or law enforcement:
-Top Schools in Chicago to Explore
1. Loyola University Chicago
-Strengths: Criminal justice, forensic science, psychology, and pre-law programs.
-Why it stands out: Loyola offers internships with the Chicago Police Department and local law firms. Their psychology department has a strong emphasis on social justice, which might align well with your law enforcement interest.
-Athletics: Division I sports with a solid cross-country/track program.
2. DePaul University
-Strengths: One of the most respected programs in law enforcement and public service in the region.
-Why it stands out: DePaul partners with local agencies and offers hands-on experience. Their psychology and criminology majors are also strong.
-Athletics: NCAA Division I, urban campus with strong student life.
3. University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)
-Strengths: Offers strong programs in criminology, law, and psychology.
-Why it stands out: Public research university with great opportunities for internships and research in the city.
-Athletics: Competitive sports teams and more affordable tuition as a public institution.
Considering Law School or Legal Careers?
If you’re already thinking about law school down the line, focus on schools that provide:
-Strong pre-law advising
-Mock trial or debate clubs
-Internships with courts, law firms, or police departments
Schools like UChicago do prepare students well for top-tier law schools, even if they don’t offer “criminal justice” as a major. You can major in psychology, political science, sociology, or public policy and still go into law enforcement or criminal law afterward.
Track & Cross Country
Competitive running programs are offered by all of the listed schools. To learn more about each school's team rankings, training plans, and athlete support, visit websites like NCAA.org or Niche.com.
Think about double majoring or selecting electives that combine psychology and law enforcement if you want the academic renown of UChicago and good support in both fields. Or think about enrolling in a university that offers both applied career preparation and strong academics, such as Loyola or DePaul.
Whatever you choose, you will succeed since you are obviously driven and dedicated. Continue your study, make campus visits if you can, and get in touch with existing students and admissions counselors. In the classroom and on the track, the ideal school will push and encourage you.
Best wishes!
That you're planning ahead and using your interests and strengths to help you focus your college search already, is commendable. You have an excellent attitude, you work hard and push for a demanding, well-rounded learning environment. A top academic option, the University of Chicago is recognized for its demanding core curriculum, top-notch faculty, and great reputation, particularly in the fields of law, philosophy, and social sciences.
However, compared to applied criminal justice or law enforcement tracks, UChicago is geared toward academic and theoretical psychology. Here are some other great schools in or close to Chicago to take into consideration if you're searching for practical or pre-professional programs in criminal justice, forensic psychology, or law enforcement:
-Top Schools in Chicago to Explore
1. Loyola University Chicago
-Strengths: Criminal justice, forensic science, psychology, and pre-law programs.
-Why it stands out: Loyola offers internships with the Chicago Police Department and local law firms. Their psychology department has a strong emphasis on social justice, which might align well with your law enforcement interest.
-Athletics: Division I sports with a solid cross-country/track program.
2. DePaul University
-Strengths: One of the most respected programs in law enforcement and public service in the region.
-Why it stands out: DePaul partners with local agencies and offers hands-on experience. Their psychology and criminology majors are also strong.
-Athletics: NCAA Division I, urban campus with strong student life.
3. University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)
-Strengths: Offers strong programs in criminology, law, and psychology.
-Why it stands out: Public research university with great opportunities for internships and research in the city.
-Athletics: Competitive sports teams and more affordable tuition as a public institution.
Considering Law School or Legal Careers?
If you’re already thinking about law school down the line, focus on schools that provide:
-Strong pre-law advising
-Mock trial or debate clubs
-Internships with courts, law firms, or police departments
Schools like UChicago do prepare students well for top-tier law schools, even if they don’t offer “criminal justice” as a major. You can major in psychology, political science, sociology, or public policy and still go into law enforcement or criminal law afterward.
Track & Cross Country
Competitive running programs are offered by all of the listed schools. To learn more about each school's team rankings, training plans, and athlete support, visit websites like NCAA.org or Niche.com.
Think about double majoring or selecting electives that combine psychology and law enforcement if you want the academic renown of UChicago and good support in both fields. Or think about enrolling in a university that offers both applied career preparation and strong academics, such as Loyola or DePaul.
Whatever you choose, you will succeed since you are obviously driven and dedicated. Continue your study, make campus visits if you can, and get in touch with existing students and admissions counselors. In the classroom and on the track, the ideal school will push and encourage you.
Best wishes!
Blaine Holsonbake
Retired/Special Education Career assistant
11
Answers
Bakersfield, California
Updated
Blaine’s Answer
You’d probably be best served by attending a junior college before entering a four year university. JC’s are less expensive and most law enforcement careers only require a two year degree-something you can attain at a JC. Take a criminal justice course and see how you like it before you invest your money into a university. Good luck!
I agree, especially since Elise seems geographically bound.
Kellee Scott