The University of Michigan is truly an incredible place with incredible people. There is a lot of school pride about both academics and athletics, and although the academics are challenging, there is a good combination of studying and fun. I would recommend U of M to anyone.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
You need to keep your GPA high and get involved at school. Michigan is big on being involved: everyone I've ever met here is in at least one student organization trying to accomplish something. If the university can see that you're a go-getter, they are more likely to let you in even if your grades are not quite as high as they should be.
Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?
The academics are definitely challenging at Michigan. Obviously it depends on what you study, but I would say that overall you are going to have to adjust your study habits if you don't already have them, and you're going to need to study A LOT. The math and science classes are especially rigorous, as well as the engineering classes.
Describe the dorm life at your college.
My dorm experience was very positive. I lived on North Campus as a freshman, which actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Yes, riding a bus to class every day wasn't great, but I got used to it quickly and the fact that there isn't much going on on North Campus brought my hall closer. I am still close with many of the people I met in the dorms, and it is an experience I wouldn't trade for anything.
Describe the food and dining at your college.
The food at Michigan really depends on which dining hall you go to. Overall, it is decent, but for example North Quad has much better food than Bursley does. There are lots of options for vegetarians, healthy choices, and lots of variety, however. As far as off campus eating, there are many different choices. On State Street there is more affordable food, and on Main there are nicer restaurants. Overall Ann Arbor has many different types of food, and it would take forever to try them all!
What’s there to do for fun at your college?
Of course there is a decent amount of partying, not just in Greek life but most places on campus. However, there are definitely people who don't drink, smoke, or party too. It is not hard to find people who like the same things as you in a school as big as Michigan. Sporting events are always fun (football, basketball, hockey, etc.), as well as walking around to shop on State Street, going to a movie, etc.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
Michigan is definitely expensive. Although it is worth it to me, and I am in state, you have to be sure that this school is where you want to be. As far as public schools go, Michigan is one of the most expensive.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Michigan is full of tradition. For example, legend goes that if you step on the M on the middle of the Diag (the center of campus) before your first Blue Book exam, you will fail it. Even students who have already taken Blue Book exams avoid stepping on it out of fear. I know I definitely don't step on it! There are many other examples of these sorts of traditions.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
You have to be willing to put in the effort and really take advantage of the situation you're put in and the opportunities you've been given. Michigan can be the best thing that ever happened to you, but you have to work hard for it.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
There is a ridiculous number of clubs and organizations at Michigan. Take advantage of it! They are a great way to meet people, get involved, find something you're passionate about, and build a resume. One of the things I love most about U of M's campus is that it is constantly alive: there is an energy around campus of things getting accomplished, changes being made.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
Greek life plays a significant role on campus, but not a huge one. I have friends in Greek life and friends not in Greek life, and it doesn't really make a difference. It is all just about common interests. Personally, Greek life wasn't for me, but this is a personal choice. There are many opportunities for socializing in and outside of Greek life.
How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?
I never feel unsafe on campus. Most areas are well lit. Obviously you should avoid walking alone at night, but I would say that's true of most places. Of course crimes do occur, and it is helpful to travel in a group.
The University of Michigan is truly an incredible place with incredible people. There is a lot of school pride about both academics and athletics, and although the academics are challenging, there is a good combination of studying and fun. I would recommend U of M to anyone.
You need to keep your GPA high and get involved at school. Michigan is big on being involved: everyone I've ever met here is in at least one student organization trying to accomplish something. If the university can see that you're a go-getter, they are more likely to let you in even if your grades are not quite as high as they should be.
The academics are definitely challenging at Michigan. Obviously it depends on what you study, but I would say that overall you are going to have to adjust your study habits if you don't already have them, and you're going to need to study A LOT. The math and science classes are especially rigorous, as well as the engineering classes.
My dorm experience was very positive. I lived on North Campus as a freshman, which actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Yes, riding a bus to class every day wasn't great, but I got used to it quickly and the fact that there isn't much going on on North Campus brought my hall closer. I am still close with many of the people I met in the dorms, and it is an experience I wouldn't trade for anything.
The food at Michigan really depends on which dining hall you go to. Overall, it is decent, but for example North Quad has much better food than Bursley does. There are lots of options for vegetarians, healthy choices, and lots of variety, however. As far as off campus eating, there are many different choices. On State Street there is more affordable food, and on Main there are nicer restaurants. Overall Ann Arbor has many different types of food, and it would take forever to try them all!
Of course there is a decent amount of partying, not just in Greek life but most places on campus. However, there are definitely people who don't drink, smoke, or party too. It is not hard to find people who like the same things as you in a school as big as Michigan. Sporting events are always fun (football, basketball, hockey, etc.), as well as walking around to shop on State Street, going to a movie, etc.
Michigan is definitely expensive. Although it is worth it to me, and I am in state, you have to be sure that this school is where you want to be. As far as public schools go, Michigan is one of the most expensive.
Michigan is full of tradition. For example, legend goes that if you step on the M on the middle of the Diag (the center of campus) before your first Blue Book exam, you will fail it. Even students who have already taken Blue Book exams avoid stepping on it out of fear. I know I definitely don't step on it! There are many other examples of these sorts of traditions.
You have to be willing to put in the effort and really take advantage of the situation you're put in and the opportunities you've been given. Michigan can be the best thing that ever happened to you, but you have to work hard for it.
There is a ridiculous number of clubs and organizations at Michigan. Take advantage of it! They are a great way to meet people, get involved, find something you're passionate about, and build a resume. One of the things I love most about U of M's campus is that it is constantly alive: there is an energy around campus of things getting accomplished, changes being made.
Greek life plays a significant role on campus, but not a huge one. I have friends in Greek life and friends not in Greek life, and it doesn't really make a difference. It is all just about common interests. Personally, Greek life wasn't for me, but this is a personal choice. There are many opportunities for socializing in and outside of Greek life.
I never feel unsafe on campus. Most areas are well lit. Obviously you should avoid walking alone at night, but I would say that's true of most places. Of course crimes do occur, and it is helpful to travel in a group.