Michael Berns - MCHS Class of 2007
Currently Attends the University of Illinois

I attend the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a large university (approximately 42,000 students). Already the relationships I have formed in central Illinois are great in number and in quality. My best friends are my roommates, Matt from Highland Park, IL, Stephen from Northbrook, IL, and Howie from Lower Merion, PA.

One of my main reasons for coming to U of I was to have a chance to participate in a thriving Greek community while enjoying a world class academic reputation and a spirited student body. I have joined a Jewish fraternity house, Alpha Epsilon Pi, and have met people from all around the world. I am taking classes in English, geology, history, religion, and even law. Classes are big-anywhere from 45 to 275 students.

While much larger than Milken, the level of anonymity I have within these classes is refreshing. While there is clearly much more responsibility put on the student, the pressure comes from me, rather than from the institution itself. I am truly happy with my decision to attend U of I. I made a decision to go to a school not knowing anyone, and I have no regrets. Creating new friendships and building new relationships with people, as well as with a new town, has been rewarding and powerfully fullfilling. While the weather here is similar to a hot Southern Californian summer, I know it won't last long. But like everything else I've dealt with since arriving here, It's a challenge I welcome with open arms and an open mind. The door is always open here at U of I to come and visit, and I look forward to staying in touch with you all as the seasons roll on.