Northern Michigan University
Marquette, MI, USA

Reviews

Northern Michigan University

Bryanne from Canton, MI

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
The teachers are so helpful. They will come in early or stay late in their office if you can't make their hours. When you ask a question they do their best to answer it. I even had teachers who would look it up and the answer it the next class. Some teachers even remember all their students names and faces, even in the 300+ lectures. The class sizes are perfect. They're just small enough that you still can get that one on one help unlike at huge colleges. The teachers do a great job keeping students attentions, like a chemistry teacher doing live demos in lecture class.
Am enjoying being here
I love it here. I don't know of any other college where you can go to class and in that same day go hiking, or biking, or swimming, or cliff jumping, or sledding, or snowboarding/skiing. There all sorts of clubs from government and art to sports. You can even go see a movie on campus for free and they are even recent ones. If you're looking for a college where you spend every hour of every day either in class or studying then Northern isn't for you. If you want to balance your day with your studies and some fun then get on Northern's website and apply. Do it now! What are you waiting for?
Bang for the buck
College isn't cheap, everyone who's heading there or has been there knows that. At Northern though it's completely worth it. You have school where some classes are challenging and some classes are fun and then you have classes that are both which is a bonus. The teachers will do whatever they can to help you out if you're struggling with a class or just have a question. The environment is great. The campus has that laid back feeling with just enough seriousness to keep you on your academic track. Dorm life was so different for me, but I loved it. All of my friends were just a walk away and up to do something when a test wasn't looming near. There is always something to do one campus, or if you feel the need to just get off campus for a bit you could walk over to the beach or take a quick drive to Marquette Mountain.
Tips for prospective students
Let's see some tips for you. FYI Northern is in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It snows a bit and can pretty cold. Now don't freak out, it's not like arctic weather or anything, it's not the bad no matter what stories you hear. You should bring a very warm, heavy winter coat though and boots made to take the snow. A snowboard and skis for those who like their winter sports. Marquette Mountain is about a mile or two from campus. Now we do have nice days up here too, so bring your swim wear because Lake Superior is about a mile or two as well from campus. If your home is a long ways away from home don't worry, Northern will feel like your second home in no time. Just do something here. Join an interesting club, try-out for your favorite sport, and make friends. Good luck.
Great for these types of students
Want an adventure? Go hiking on one of two mountains near Marquette. Need an adrenalin rush every once in a while? Go jump off Black Rocks or take a trip to Marquette Mountain for some boarding/skiing. Want to get a serious education after high school? The teachers are so into their field of study they're actually excited to teacher their subject to us. Want to just make some new friends and hang out? Go to the Market Place and grab something to eat or watch a movie on campus. This is probably the one school where you will find everything you want to do and a few other things you would like to try.

Andrea from Oakdale, MN

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
My classes last year were great. The professors are all really nice and willing to help. They all have posted office hours that they never miss. Classes move quickly in most cases, but professors adapt each one to fit the students in it.
Am enjoying being here
Marquette is gorgeous. It's an easy walk to Superior from campus. Curving sidewalks and a lot of trees keep the campus feeling natural. Students are friendly and open-minded. Plus, the food is awesome!
Bang for the buck
Out of state tuition is a little expensive and the books cost quite a bit, but there are also a lot of scholarships and financial aide available.
Tips for prospective students
Be prepared for a ton of snow. Being near lake Superior keeps Marquette from getting as cold as other parts of the upper midwest, but it also means it's much wetter year round.
Great for these types of students
NMU has all kinds of students. Have an open mind and look into the almost 300 different student clubs and organizations on campus.

Joe from lowell, MI

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
teachers are helpful and personable they are completely willing to help those who help themselves.
Am enjoying being here
northern is a school for those who like to make their own fun. In Marquette and the sorrounding area there is so much to do you should never get bored.
Tips for prospective students
going to northern is a great experience and a great time, but every student must com equipped with the proper gear or you wont fully be able to enjoy your time there. As a start bring hiking boot, swimtrunks, sleds, snowgear, everything you think you need, and some of the things your grandparents recomend
Great for these types of students
northern truly has everything from L.A.R.P. to lacrosse. everyone will find a place where they will feel at home

Kaitlin from Skokie, IL

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
A friendly, fun environment. The School is really involved with the Community and vise verse. A great size and good pricing, I'm paying the same or less than I would have to go to some of my in-state School
Tips for prospective students
Don't let distance scare you. its a long way from me and I almost overlooked it. I'm so glad I didn't. Everyone is so friendly nd the people are great although you miss people back home, you meet a whole new set of great people
Academic Rigor
The academics are very good and the teachers really like to help you when in need. There are great opportunities for tutoring and most classes have TAs along with them to help with study sessions if you need it.
Dorm Life
Suite style :) there are bathrooms for every two rooms. It's so nice not to have to share a bathroom with the whole floor. The halls have great atmospheres and they all do activities to help you get involved.
Food and Dining
I'm not going to lie, the food is average. It really depends on the day if its good or not. Some of the options are great and others are ehh. Most schools are like that though but I would say its still good quality food. Also there are food places on campus that you can use campus dining dollars on like Fieras, Melted Grilled Cheese, Temaki and Tea, Smoothie King, Starbucks etc.
What to do for fun
Its right on the lake, Swimming, Cliff jumping. There is also hiking on the ever beautiful Sugar loaf. The nature is breathtaking around here and you won't want to miss it. It is however Winter for most of the year and there is a lot of snow. This is good though because you can go skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, there are always groups building snow people and other winter related activities.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
On the first snowfall that sticks, one of the all boys houses, the Brule house goes on the brule run. This means they streak in the courtyard. it sounds weird but its a great time and hilarious to watch especially with fresh hot cocoa to keep you warm.
Great for these types of students
It is a small town so there isn't much mainstream places around but we have some. The big thing is nature so if you love nature, and the outdoors come here you wont regret it. Also our hockey is the best so hockey fans... This is your home!
Clubs and Activities
We have so many clubs and what ever we don't have, its super easy to start one. We have athletics, greek life, club athletics, intramurals, academic clubs, volunteer organizations. I cant even think of all we have because there are so many options.
Greek Life
Greek life is kind of small. We have four sororities and 2 fraternities. Then we also some fine arts fraternities and academic fraternities. Don't let that steer you away though its a great time and you make tons of cool people. I'm in a sorority here and its the best decision i have made since coming up here. We are involved on campus and we volunteer too.
Campus Safety
Not only is the campus super safe, so it the general community. The area is a great small town. On campus we have Public Safety watching over things and making sure everything goes smoothly. Coming here you will feel really safe and have nothing to worry about.

Amanda from Sterling Heights, MI

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
NMU is a rather small, yet comfortable campus. It appeals to those who enjoy outdoors and athletics, as well as those that prefer shopping, clubs, and other city-like things. The campus has lots and lots of physical resources as well as a staff that will do anything they can to make your college experience the best it can be.
Tips for prospective students
Get Skype. A lot of people who go to NMU are from far away, and it's easy to miss your family and friends. Video chatting can make things transition more smoothly. Also, bring decorations to make your room feel like home instead of an empty white box. Don't be afraid to change your major, be undeclared, or ask for help. You have time, might as well use it.
Academic Rigor
NMU professors are rather fair when it comes to testing and homework. As long as you do the work assigned, you should be prepared for anything they want to test you on. Show up to class, pay attention, and put in some effort and you'll be golden.
Dorm Life
Many of the dorms are recently renovated and just lovely. The furniture is new and the buildings are kept up very nicely by the building and grounds staff. Students can also be as involved as they want to be. Go to every fun occasion or go to none, it's up to you. No pressure.
Food and Dining
For such a small (or medium size, as they say) campus, there are a lot of choices for food. Sandwich station, pastas, soups, salads, pizza, hamburger/chicken/fries, and a Mongo grill are some options any time. There's also a hot food line that changes every meal. The other, smaller cafe option has soup, salad, sandwiches, a grill (for burgers and other sandwiches, pizza, and another alternating hot food line. Both places also have a selection of fruit, veggies, drinks, desserts, and other random deliciousness.
What to do for fun
There are a lot of clubs available, including sport clubs, clubs relating to a major, religion (or lack thereof), or other hobby-related clubs. Every year there is a Zombie chase involving shooting participants with marshmallows. The campus housing often do their own parties or events that are often free or super cheap to get involved in. Throughout the city restaurants and event spaces often have discounts for students when they show their ID. Free taco at Taco Bell.
There's also a TON of places to explore throughout the Upper Peninsula of beautiful Michigan. There's the Picture Rock boat tour, there are waterfalls, and cliffs (Perfect for diving off of...for fun), that big lake (ya know...Superior), and countless hiking trails. Lots of shopping and restaurants, and concerts throughout the year. There's really something for everyone.
Bang for the buck
NMU is one of the cheapest universities in the state and is recognized around the world for being a great school. People come from across the world to join us! No matter where you go, your wallet it going to suffer, but at least at Northern the blow if manageable and worth it.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The annual Zombie Chase is amazing. Students zombie hunting across campus throwing marshmallows and chasing each other. It's a sight to see. There's the Nearly Naked Mile where people run and take off certain clothes for charity. There's also the Polar Plunge, where students dive into Lake Superior in the Winter.
Great for these types of students
There's a little bit of something for everyone here. Sports, education, shopping, crafts, nature. Whatever your little heart desires can probably be found.
Clubs and Activities
Lots and lots of choices. Zombies, crafts, sports, religion, aliens, movies, majors, and more.
Greek Life
The Greek life on campus isn't as prominent as at other bigger schools, but it exists here and those that partake love it.
Campus Safety
There are safety poles with phones and emergency buttons scattered throughout the campus, as well as Public Safety making rounds. The campus is well lit with plenty of security. President Barack Obama didn't seem to have a problem visiting our campus.

Cindy from Delano, MN

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
I love Northern Michigan University. The campus is beautiful, and right near the great Lake Superior! The professors are always willing to help you, they have ample office hours where you can talk to the professor one-on-one.
Tips for prospective students
There are many trails to hike and explore right near the water. So remember to bring lots of outdoor gear!
Academic Rigor
I am applying for the Nursing Program. It is very difficult to get in. I had to keep my GPA around a 3.8 to compete with other student who are also applying.
Dorm Life
There are many activities that go on in the dorm which are fun to meet other students at.
Food and Dining
I enjoy most of the meals. I was lucky enough to have a dorm right near the cafeteria
What to do for fun
Whenever I have any free time I go out exploring with my friends! There are many trails to explore on but I also like to go off on my own to find never seen before spots. In the winter I enjoy going to the hockey games. Norther's team is ranked in Division 1, and they are really good!

Shellie from Reese, MI

accepted here and planning to attend soon
Categories Comments
In three sentences
Northern Michigan is a great college for my degree that I am interested in. The classes are small. You make tons of friends within the first few weeks of school.
Tips for prospective students
Visit the campus and ask professors about different courses they have. Ask former students about their experiences that they had through their years at Northern.
Academic Rigor
Your teachers help you when you need it. Your friends also help you with your classes.
Food and Dining
You can get on a plan where you can get food all day.
What to do for fun
Hiking, fishing, off-roading, shopping, visiting animal shelters
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
When the first snow sticks for 24 hours, you go out in shorts and t-shirts and run around in the snow.
Great for these types of students
Yes

Mackenzie from Traverse City, MI

accepted here and planning to attend soon
Categories Comments
Will learn a lot
My best friend I are going to be freshmen fall of 2012 at NMU! Couldnt be more excited to be attending such an amazing school with such great programs are professors!
Will enjoy being here
We are planning on being in either Payne or Gant hall, love love love it. The people up north are just too kind. The community and student body both really respect each other.
Bang for the buck
Can you say 2nd cheapest public university in Michigan? Location alone is worth the price, then add in awesome people, staff and dinning...bang for the buck is an understatement!
Tips for prospective students
Visit before you get your heart set on a school. I had originally wanted to attend MSU or CMU; but after one day at Northern my mind was completely changed. You have the opportunity to become a Big fish in a small sea up here, unlike MSU where you are the small fish in the big sea.
Great for these types of students
If you want to make college, truly, the best days of your life.

Jamie from Wyoming, MI

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
Northern Michigan University is one of best decisions I have made in my entire life. It has tons of majors and organizations to offer and the people here are extremely friendly.
Tips for prospective students
If you do not like snow, do not come to Northern.
Academic Rigor
It's a joke at Northern that the 'n' stands for knowledge. However, I have had amazing professors and a great time learning. It's not pull you hair out difficult, but there is a challenge.
Dorm Life
Fun!!! NMU really strives for the dorms to have a family feeling to them. There is also on-campus apartments.
Food and Dining
The food on campus is good but it gets old fast. However, we do have a Starbucks, a grilled cheese restaurant, and a Mexican restaurant on-campus. Other than this, all off-campus dining is delicious
What to do for fun
There has never been a day where I have been bored. I have gone swimming, cliff jumping, hiking, biking, to the movie theater, sledding, to the ice caves, and seen the Northern Lights.
Bang for the buck
Northern Michigan University is the second cheapest 4-year university in the state of Michigan. Each student is supplied with a laptop, which is included in tuition. You'll also see a lot of students from nearby states because it is still cheaper with out of state tuition than to attend a university in state.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The Brule Run is AMAZING! After the first snowfall sticks for 24 hours, a certain male dorm strips and runs across campus for all the spectators to see.
Great for these types of students
Students who love the outdoors, exploring, and are down to earth would love NMU.
Clubs and Activities
NMU boasts over 300 different organizations across campus. There is everything for a dog walking program, to a fishing club.
Greek Life
The greek life here is minimal. There are a few, however, they do not live in houses together.
Campus Safety
Marquette, is one of the nicest cities I have ever lived in. The campus itself is patrolled by real officers, not security guards, and there are emergency blue oles everywhere around campus.

Jennifer from Marquette, MI

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
Northern Michigan is the perfect place for me. It's located in a small town providing comfort and a community feeling in whatever you choose to do at the school. The dorms are comfortable and the people are wonderful.
Tips for prospective students
Be sure to study and go to class. It seems silly, but skipping class is the quickest way to guarantee failure in classes. Take good notes and have friends over to help you study.
Academic Rigor
The classes are challenging but not impossible. Study a lot and work hard. Your grade will reflect the work you put in.
Dorm Life
I love dorm life. It's comfortable and the people living here are respectable and kind.
Food and Dining
The only problem about the food is that the Den closes early. The Market Place is open late, but for the students living up campus, it's not easy to make the journey through snow.
What to do for fun
Downtown is a good place to start. There's a pottery shop, book store, and many shops. You could also go hiking, canoeing, ice fishing, snowboarding, swimming, and even see the Northern Lights!