The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Date: Jul 11 2008
Major: Undecided (This Major's Salary over time)
Coming from a small town instate, I wasn't sure what to expect. I knew I would have to work hard to succeed, but this university overdoes it.

I didn't know anyone coming in, but I did have expectations of making good friends, if not right away, then eventually. However, in a place so big, it's hard not to feel like just a number. It seemed like everyone already knew everybody else, and in general I think the people were just not warm or friendly. Second semester I finally did meet some good people who became my friends but honestly the experience here wasn't what I expected.

It really is all about the Michigan name. Ask any student why they're here, and 90% will say to get a great job or make a lot of money. There is nothing wrong with that, but really is that the only purpose of college? I see it as more of an experience that we can take with us in life.

During the week, all you do is study. During the weekends, all you do is study and go to football games. The school markets itself in being the best, which leads to some pretty arrogant and prideful people who have no humbleness or humility. People are here in order to make a lot of money. There is more to life than just studying in order to make a lot of money later on.

There academic advisers are terrible. They gave me no advice at all. I ended up freaking out at my orientation when I didn't know what classes to take, and all they did was talk on their cell phone and tell me to hurry up. Is that the way to treat a new student?

I also had a few huge classes which didn't bother me, but the professors did. They do not know how to teach effectively. I didn't learn anything at all, but rather did rote memorization in order to pass my classes. I do commend my English 125 class though as the only good class I had, which got me interested in English.

Just be warned, that at this school, you are a no one. Be aware that if you are coming from a low caliber high school, all you will do here is study. This is a very challenging school. I also felt unwelcome as a Christian. This is a very liberal school, and Christianity is not welcomed. I used to have dreams of coming to this school, and living in the city. However, it's just not what you expect. Even with a full ride to here, I am transferring out.