Michigan State University

State likes to brag about the study abroad program, I haven't had a chance to be a part it of yet, but from hearsay I believe is quite excellent. What I do know a bit about is their physics and astronomy department. I don't knowledge to compare it with other schools, but it is a fantastic program.

READ THIS IF YOU WANT To KNOW ABOUT PHYSICS
The physics department is bolstered by the presence of the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory, a premier facility for the research of rare isotopes (for studying questions like the origin of the heavy elements). What's more, it is possible for undergraduate students to get involved with research. The department is large but it has fantastic professors. Students seem friendly, from what I hear from the upperclassmen that I know there is much working together so it's not likely to be cut-throat. Moreover, I believe the program commands a bit of respect; if you do well, get involved and establish relationships with some professors you will have a solid application if you wish apply to grad school-so don't over look this place because it is not one of the "big name" universities.

READ THIS IF YOU DON'T CARE TO KNOW ABOUT PHYSICS OR IF YOU ARE READING IT ALL
State has a beautiful campus, many gardens, innumerable trees, and varying architecture. It's got a planetarium-how cool is that?-which is pretty neat, I've gone there so I know. The school of music has concerts which are most often free too. Those are some things you don't really hear about- intrinsic benefits of going there.

The Lyman Briggs School of Science is a good program for those interested in science, especially pre-professional paths. Classes are in the dorm in which you'll probably live as part of the program, and it is quite convenient to be a flight of stairs away from the chem lab...if the lab is at 8AM. In sum, don't sell this school short, its worth a good look and so far I'm quite happy I went there.

1st Year Male -- Class 2009

Education Quality: A+, Scholastic Success: F

Alumnus Male -- Class 2000

First of all, most of my comments are really for kids that are considering MSU's Honors College. I think that my experience would be much different if I wasn't in the Honors program. Being a part of the HC allows you to take any classes (with no prerequisites) and schedule before basically everyone else. If your test scores are just below HC level (30 ACT), it is well worth it to retake them. Several scholarships/programs are available only to those with a 33+ ACT. It's a big university here; you are free to do pretty much anything. You can challenge yourself with a difficult major and classes, or cruise through easy classes and an obscure major. I enjoy the Big Ten atmosphere immensely; the football and basketball student sections are tons of fun. There are plenty of IM sport opportunities and numerous clubs to join. I don't personally know much about the Greek system, but there are always frat/sorority events going on, if you're interested. There isn't overwhelming pressure to be a Greek, that's for sure. The residential colleges can be a good experience as well, with Lyman Briggs for the science majors and James Madison for the pre-law and political science people. As far as academics, I've had a solid experience here. My easiest classes still required me to put in time studying or doing problems. I've come away from all of my classes feeling like I learned something useful. Learn to love reading... it'll make college life much easier. My first two years here have been great; I'm involved in several engineering clubs, the campus band, and undergraduate research. The resources are here for those who want to use them. I have met all kinds of people here, too. There are idiots and geniuses at MSU; choose your friends carefully. The campus is large and beautiful. One can easily walk across campus in 15 minutes, but I prefer to bike everywhere. MSU is an excellent undergraduate institution. Expect to get crap from your friends at U-M... they'll appear in the fall for football smack talk, disappear during basketball season, and blame their low grades on the difficulty of their program. Don't take them too seriously. Overall, I have had a great time at Michigan State. I've met some great people, done interesting research, had fun cheering on the sports teams, and obtained two fantastic internships for the summer months. Do your homework when researching your college choices, and don't hesitate to e-mail me if you have any questions about the Honors College or engineering at MSU.

2nd Year Male -- Class 2007

Education Quality: A+, Individual Value: B+