University of Iowa

The University of Iowa turns the ideal Midwestern college town into a vibrant intellectual and creative powerhouse. Anchored in Iowa City—one of the few designated UNESCO Cities of Literature in the world—Iowa seamlessly blends literary heritage with heavy-hitting research. It's home to the world-famous Iowa Writers' Workshop, the Carver College of Medicine, and elite pre-health, nursing, and creative writing programs. Campus life merges directly into downtown Iowa City, where students step off the green lawns of the Pentacrest straight onto the Pedestrian Mall (Ped Mall) for local coffee, indie books, and lively music venues. On Saturdays, the energy flips to electric Big Ten athletic pride, highlighted by the heart-warming Hawkeye Wave toward the Stead Family Children's Hospital at Kinnick Stadium. However, living the Hawkeye experience comes with clear trade-offs. Upstate Midwestern winters are notoriously long, freezing, and grey. Furthermore, Iowa’s historic reputation as a premier party school still rings true; booze-heavy Greek life and downtown bar culture dominate weekends, which can feel overwhelming if you aren't into that scene. Add in a remote geographic setting surrounded by rural farmland, and self-direction is key. It’s a remarkable launchpad for creative minds and future clinicians, but you’ll definitely want to ask a current Hawkeye how they navigate the intense party reputation and harsh winters.