advice from recent students
In searching for the ideal college or university, always remember to take into account what life is really about: challenging what we already know and understand, then synthesizing that with the extraordinarily mind-opening content absorbed during higher education. The end result, for many at least, is a totally new perspective on life. If I have already felt this after my first year here, it will be pretty amazing to see myself as I near graduation. It is true, Michigan offers this opportunity in so many different ways and for so many different types of people.”
—Christian Knudson, '05, Perrysburg, Ohio
Make sure you visit the campus first. See if the people there seem like the kind of people you want to spend four years with. See if the town is a place you'd want to spend a lot of time in.”
—Rebecca Parks, '04, Detroit, Mich.
Entering college and trying to decide what to do with the rest of your life is a huge decision; you're bound to change your mind three times before you settle on a career! Make sure your school has a lot of terrific options. And a good reputation doesn't hurt!”
—Jessica (no last name given), '04, Clinton Township, Mich.
Think about your learning style — if you prefer smaller, more personal learning you might want a smaller school. However, don't discount larger universities completely, because they often offer things such as specialized residential programs and smaller discussion sections that make a large school seem much smaller and more personal.”
—Deepa Kamath, '01, MPH'03, Bloomfield Hills, Mich.
Look at the students on the campus. Can you imagine having a conversation or sitting down for dinner with them? Students on college campuses make the college experience what it is, so getting a feel for how you'd fit in with the student body is very important.”
—Pamela Baskies, '04, Cherry Hill, NJ
One of the most important things you can do to help yourself have an enjoyable college experience is to actually go see what college is like for yourself before you get here. One of the biggest mistakes people make is to simply make a choice based upon academic rankings and reputations.”
—Charles Grumbine, '04, Grand Rapids, Mich.
Look for a place at which you really see yourself feeling comfortable. It's your decision where you go to school — don't let anyone influence you in any ways you don't want.
—Gretchen Hilburger, '03, Niantic, Conn.
If you already know what you're interested in, look for specific programs. If you are undecided, look for someplace with lots of options or with all of your interests ...usually somewhere big.”
—Katie Rehrauer, '03, Kalamazoo, Mich.