International House at the University of Chicago

I braved the elements, including a rogue Metra train that suddenly went express, to see an author here last night. I had not been to the International House before, so welcomed the opportunity to experience the location firsthand, and hopefully hear an engaging speaker. As a side note, this author was on tour promoting his book, in St. Louis the previous night, before gracing our fair city. I had heard good things, so made the trip out here from downtown.
Fortunately for me, the International House had a good web site, which featured comprehensive directions to campus. That put a good taste in my mouth right away, as so many businesses/​venues these days seem to be rather lax in this department. I was able to take the Metra directly to campus, and just had to walk a little ways to get to the building. With its Gothic influences, the interior is striking. The building also has a fascinating backstory, as it was established by John D. Rockefeller in 1931. I saw only a selected portion on this visit, as the event that I attended took place on the second floor. Since I do not have any ties to the University of Chicago, I give this institution kudos for hosting such events free of charge and opening to the broader community. Now that I know that so much is going on here– speakers, performances, lectures– I will make it a point to keep an eye on their calendar and avail myself of the quality programming right in my backyard.

The lineup of events and guest speakers is a interesting. One is afforded the opportunity to interact with very bright, successful characters who are sometimes reviled in the popular media.
–the exterior is gothic. Or Neogothic. So is the interior, but that’s not necessarily «a good thing», as Martha Stewart would say.
–University of Chicago students are known for many things, but being good looking isn’t one of them. This has recently been documented in a college guide or two. Somehow being sloppy is supposed to make you better at the special «Chicago Math» or something.
–billing only by the Uchicago term, which is ridiculous since this already-​peculiar organization does not just cater to UChicago students, and problematic when you are a low paid (but paid) intern, as I was.
–refrigeration system is problematic in that mold, like the residents, has a tendency to travel enthusiastically between compartments.
— a small and overpriced café. Why not make a capital investment which would bring this dining hall in line wth those in the other dorms? Perhaps this doesn’t mesh with Milton Friedman’s economic theories, so it will never happen.
— Overpriced. Studios in Chicago, with bathroom and kitchen, rent for $ 800 a month. At the end of the day — what are you paying for? The UChicago brand, I guess.
–A tendency to collect and retain data on residents and alumni, without [time duration indeterminate ] releasing it, almost like a government agency.

I called Bill M., International House housekeeping manager, and Katie C.-R., general manager, on my first full business day living at the International House. Despite my detailed messages and specific request for a call back, neither of them bothered to return my call. This is even despite the messages I left with the front desk.
They obviously don’t respect or value International House guests — so why should I (or anyone else) hand over our hard-​earned money for the privilege of freezing rooms, and urine-​caked as well as feces-​streaked toilets?

This International House is located on U of Chicago campus and stands at the East end of the Midway Plaissance. beautiful location. It was just rehabbed 2 years ago and looks great. I work on campus and many of our students stay here (mostly foreign) — but staying here is the best deal in town. Very reasonable prices.
There is always something going on here– performances, speakers (from the arts, politics, history, current events, academia, business, you name it.)
If you are associated with the University– they also have guest rooms that you may pay for by the night or by the week. They are pretty much like hotel rooms. Some face the Plaissance, some are in the tower– they are nice, and a good option, as Hyde Park only has one official hotel– and it’s a little dumpy.
We have also held some seminars in I-House’s Assembly Hall– an auditorium. They’ve been very helpful although it’s a little pricey.

International House is a part of UofC and provides accommodation to international students who come to Chicago to pursue education. You do not have to attend Uof C to stay here.
I’ve never lived here but heard good things from people who live here. I go to the International House often to attend events and I can see why living here would be fun. It is a beautiful space along the midway plaisance. The neighborhood is beautiful in the summer. The theater is well maintained.
This is one of the few places in the city that have a constant showing of international arts and performances. An excellent locale for many performances.
Easily accessible by public transit and close to the Museum of Science and Industry.