Experience in University of Michigan, United States by William

Generally, what is University of Michigan like?

Michigan is an excellent academic institution with a great college culture. It has a history of dominance in American collegiate sports (for non-Americans, this is a HUGE part of American university life), it has excellent resources (17 libraries, almost all are now available online), and a little something for everyone. All of this comes at a price though - $13,000 for State of Michigan residents but $40,000 for anyone else.

What are the facilities like?

World class. It's one of the reasons why tuition is so damn high. UM spends literally tens of millions on renovation and construction. Expect the latest in hardware and software, cutting-edge research facilities (this is where the lion's share of the money goes), and an absolutely vast library database (something like 5.4 million volumes).

What are the tutors like?

Much of the faculty is world-reknown in their respective fields. They focus their time on advanced classes and research, for the most part. Underclassmen will usually have to get by with associate professors and TAs. Even in upperclassmen classes you will have to make the extra effort to make yourself known to your teachers, they will not come to you. All of this is rewarded, though, when you get one-on-one teaching from some of the leading contemporary academics.

Are the lessons easy in University of Michigan?

It depends. You can graduate from Michigan without too much academic work. That being said, if you apply yourself and take the opportunities presented, then your experience at Michigan can be very grueling (but rewarding). Expect many late nights, occasionally skipping weekend partying, and next-to-no sleep during finals.

Does the University organise activities? If so, what are they like?

Yes. There are many social events organized through UM. There are scores of student groups that receive University funding, everything from Polish Club to DORAK (Do Random Acts Of Kindness). As a competitor in NCAA sports, UM has varsity sports teams as well as clubs. The co-curriculars tend to be a lot of fun, and you'll find that most people are involved in at least a few.

Do you think there is a good quality of teaching?

Yes, but it depends on the level of the courses your taking. First year classes are definitely a mixed bag - you can have good professors, bad TAs, and everything in between. Second year classes are definitely competent. Third and fourth year classes are excellent.

Are there any stories you can share?

I took several second and third year classes with a Political Science professor named Ronald Suny. After I went to several of his office hours, we became friends, and taking his fourth year-level classes in nationalism was excellent.