盲人摸象's story applys here. I think the author is new to the states. I also believe he is just recording the truth based on HIS/HER OWN LIMITED experience. When I said the experience I meant both the experience in China and in US.
Nobody forced u to come, nobody begged u to stay. If you do not like it, go home then. BTW, UC or UIC are both in the very bad neighborhood, the real downtown is on the north side, along Michigan Ave and State St. Lincoln Park is another popular place for young professionals. U did not go to the right place... The public transportation in Chicago is not really bad, basically you can go anywhere by taking the train or bus - most of the trains and buses are really old though. Most of the middle-class live in the north side of the city, by the lake. Should see the mansions in the north suburbs, i,e, Winnetka.