- DeKalb is located just 65 miles east of Chicago and is just a 25-minute ride from the Western suburbs of the city, putting the entire Chicagoland area and all it offers within reach of Northern Illinois students.

- NIU's proximity to the third-largest media market in the country gives Huskie student-athletes access to a national stage.

- Chicago is home to five franchises representing the four major professional sports leagues, including the Chicago Bears of the National Football League.

- Chicago offers every amenity and activity, from access to the best sports, music, arts and shopping in the country to post-graduate internships and job opportunities.

- Music lovers will enjoy the constant influx of different artists at venues of all sizes that make Chicago a regular stop on their concert tours.