The best thing about the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is the student body. We are diverse not only in culture, but also in personal interests. Everyone is united by their passion for their chosen field, but all fields are so different. The student body is talented in every program – humanities, natural and social sciences, engineering and technology, and fine arts are all exceptional programs here at Michigan. Therefore, the students succeeding in these programs are exceptional as well. However, we are not limited to our own field, but can branch out to other interests through our hundreds of diversified clubs.
I would change the location of the union. I wish it was more centralized on campus, it is a little far to walk to for some students.
Michigan is a very large school, but I do not think it is too big. Students may have to put in extra effort for a professor to know their name, but the reward is usually worth the fight: attending office hours and asking questions in class often equate with higher grades. A campus this sides provides an endless interest of activities, as well as the mobility to explore other departments before declaring a major.
When I tell people I go to the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, people often say, “That’s a great school!” or, “Oh, you’re smart!” This is a well-known school for it’s overall achievements, but few people know of the individual, daily successes of the students and faculty. People also tell me, “That sounds cold!” and to that, I just laugh. The weather can sometimes be undesirable, but I think it gives the campus a little more personality. I spend most of my time in friend’s rooms or apartments, at local restaurants, theatres, or the library. Ann Arbor is the ideal college town. It’s a hub for the arts, resulting in interesting people and delicious restaurants. There are lots of theatrical events, and if you still can’t find something to do, simply walking around downtown is always an adventure.
The administration I believe really cares that the students receive an excellent education. Recently, our president convinced President Obama to come here to speak to the student body. A recent controversy on campus was by an organization called Students For Life. This pro-life student group brought large signs and posters in the center of the university with images of aborted fetuses and comparing them to genocide victims. Many students were outraged and disgusted by these posters while others supported their beliefs.
There is school pride to the nth degree. Everyone owns many articles of clothing that say “Michigan” on it and will defend our school in any argument.
I’ll always remember when President Obama spoke to the student body, especially after waiting nine hours (1 AM to 10 AM) in the freezing cold, sleeping on the sidewalk. I’ll also never forget the feeling after completing my freshman year, when I realized I was well on my way to becoming a mature adult with a legitimate education.