The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Date: Nov 18 2001
Major: Political Science (This Major's Salary over time)
Ultimately, the best education I received at the University of Michigan was cultural, with a very expansive group of entering Freshmen. Since my background was not very similar to those of most other students, I learned more here than I ever could of at a local or less "international" college or university. I don't think the college experience should be homogeneous. Some small colleges do a fine job of offering small class sizes (always appreciated) but they tend to admit like-minded students. Education is all about tolerance. The more people and things one is exposed to at a young age the more the world opens up to you. It is your own personal drive to succeed and learn which will propel you in life and in your career. I gained confidence in my abilities and in myself while an undergraduate here. Even though my high school did not academically prepare me, I did catch up with my classmates, some of whom were light years ahead of me, culturally and educationally. Michigan is not an Ivy League school in the sense that it will try to assist you in succeeding on a personal basis. The Ivy Leagues will tutor you and advise you to death to prove they have never made an incorrect admissions decision. Unfortunately, Michigan does believe it can make mistakes. If you do not work hard (for most of you) and organize your time well, you will not stay here for long. You will need to work hard or truly be the "creme of the crop".

My undergraduate major, Political Science, prepared me well to theorize abstract ideas, form opinions, and write well. I believe this major is still ranked #1, undergraduate and graduate, in the U.S. The professors were from a wide spectrum of political opinion, and for the most part, brilliant. It is true that your first two years are made more difficult by huge lecture halls and graduate student assistants that truly do not speak English. Once again, it is your ability to transcend the obstacles that teaches you something instructive in life. If you are bright and resourceful, you will get through the hoops with grace and succeed. If you require much hand-holding, the University of Michigan is definitely not for you. Your fellow students are quite competitive with each other.

All told, eight years after my graduation, I can say I fiercely support and believe in my education at U-M. I think the arrogance is acknowledged in some people and the university is trying to improve the student body and reputation of the athletic teams as a more humble, sportsman-like school. If I had to compare Michigan to what I have heard about Princeton, I would say the arrogance at Michigan is negligible. Remember, Michigan is by and large a upper, upper middle-class school. You are competing with students who want to get ahead in life.

In my many career positions, I have always interviewed with a perceived advantage. People will want to give you a chance because you are a Michigan grad. Although you have to prove yourself and work hard, that halo has not dissappeared and in every part of life the degree has assisted me. Unless you get admitted to a blue-chip school that is diverse and smaller, you could not go wrong with an undergraduate degree from Michigan. Just ignore the administration and the bureaucracy and you will do well.