Michigan State University

Michigan State University is a member of the Public Ivies, as well as the Association of American Universities. Being a member of both of these associations, Michigan State University demonstrates its academic excellence in many fields of study and research. As an engineering major, I can tell you that my professors are extremely well-qualified in their respective areas of study. They are approachable and fair, but they will push you to your fullest potential. Michigan State University will challenge you, but in doing so, you will be prepared for any facet in life.

3rd Year Male -- Class 2010

Innovation: A+, Useful Schoolwork: A-

First and foremost, let me state that I will try to put more weight on the university versus the general college experience and my own anecdotes surrounding my personal experiences. With this, you can judge the actual university instead of hearing what you "want" to hear.

I was never really into the "college experience." I am quite introverted and never got the thrill of partying and clubbing. Now a prospective student or those curious of Michigan State may be tempted to ask right off the bat: "Why did/would you attend Michigan State University? It is known as a party school! You may as well add in a little more effort in high school to go to (Insert U of M, Notre Dame, Chicago, or an Ivy League like school here)." Let me state that Michigan State is quite possibly on the same level as the top schools in the country and it has earned its title as a "Public Ivy" for good reason. Contrary to what some people, especially those who live in the state of Michigan, tell you... Michigan State is not just a regional university but a global university.

While a great number of students do worry about what to do on the weekends (even though East Lansing is an average college town at best), Michigan State itself has TREMENDOUS resources that most students do not fully take advantage of. If you REALLY want to learn and not just get stuck in the diploma mill that the college experience has turned into, take advantage of the facilities such as the library, the career services building, and a bunch of other entities that I regret not taking advantage of. Essentially, MSU is very well equipped for those that want to learn (and all you need to do is seek it rather than wait for it).

The faculty is friendly for the most part. You are going to need to do your homework on your professors, but they do care about your learning (at least relative to other professors in other schools). Go to their office hours and try to expand on the topics that you have learned in their respective classes. When a professor knows that you are interested in their classes and topics, they will really try to get to know you and you can expect great recommendation letters later. The History department (I took quite a bit of history classes at MSU despite being a Biology major) is a hidden gem, especially in regards to what I just talked about. You may have heard of the number of TAs and instructors being internationals. But fear not, they are quite good at what they do. I never had any major problems trying to understand them (their English is fluent enough).

Alumnus Male -- Class 2000

I can't say anything bad about MSU. The people are so friendly, especially if you're a freshman. Everyone's looking to meet new friends. Living in the dorms your first year helps a lot with making friends. I suggest using Room Sync to find your roommate. That's what I did and she's one of my best friends now. If you put yourself out there, you'll make friends just fine. People that you sit next to in class will become friends, people down your hall, in your building, people who are in the same clubs as you are. I personally didn't do greek life and I met a ton of people so if you want to join a frat or sorority it I'm sure you'd meet even more people.

Classes are extremely difficult but profs are helpful. I suggest going to office hours and actually paying attention in class. I had a few profs who new my name by the end of the semester. You just have to remember that you're paying for their time and to use it! Ask questions, sit in the front, go to office hours.

Most of my profs spoke english but the math department has a lot of profs that are foreign and most of the TAs in math and science are foreign too but just because they have broken english doesn't mean they don't care about you as a student.

I had basketball and football tickets and i suggest everyone do the same even if it's not your thing. Going to the sports games in probably where you feel the most proud to be a spartan. Everything is green and white and everyone comes together. MSU is a great school and anyone who wants to leave probably partied too much and didn't take advantage of the resources MSU has. Don't skip classes and you'll do fine. Take time to study but work hard and play hard!

1st Year Female -- Class 2018

Useful Schoolwork: A+, Collaboration/Competitive: C+