Michigan Technological University (MTU)

At Michigan Technological University, "engineering is a part of everybody's life" and students take pride in having a "really good reputation" and "very high standards" in that field. And while students, also known as Huskies, take the time to mention the "beautiful (often snowy) environment," they emphasize that the school's 140 degree programs are "serious study," with everything from STEM-focused subjects in polymer science, wildlife ecology and conservation, and cybersecurity, to jazz studies and writing. These "challenging" courses bring with them a strong emphasis on "pathways for career development and professional advancement," and popular class activities include things like building nanosatellites and making prosthetic limbs. Moreover, in addition to "lots of internship and co-op opportunities," Huskies have clocked more than 132,000 paid undergraduate research hours in recent years. With a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, "concentrated courses are great," though some say that general education courses can be "huge" and "impersonal." That said, students feel that "the more time you put into your program, the professors become more interactive, and the experience becomes more meaningful." And throughout, "the administration in every department works hard to answer questions and help out as much as possible." Ultimately, across all subjects, students feel that, "Michigan Tech provides an atmosphere that nurtures learning" and "pushes students to excel academically."

By and large, Huskies are "down-to-earth, friendly people," who "are looking to get a good education and are fairly laid-back." Students are up in the air about which takes precedence some suggest that "most people think about classes first, hanging out second," while others find them to be "great at balancing school and hanging out." Students do note that the student "ratio is a little guy-heavy," but overall, "the sense of community is remarkable," with one student noting that though there are nearly 6,000 undergraduates on campus, "you start to see people you know everywhere.... It is really easy to find a friend and talk to someone." That happens more often than not, as the typical Husky "is smart and a little more introspective than average." Above all, even when it's cold outside, it's warm among peers: "the atmosphere is very friendly."

Nestled "in a small town in the middle of the deep North woods," Michigan Tech attracts students who love the winter. "Winters are long and cold up here," explains one student, and there are plenty of "winter activities to be a part of." Students enjoy access to Mont Ripley, home of "hiking, biking, four-wheeling, skiing, [and] snowmobiling" and Husky pride is on display during Winter Carnival, "a long weekend off from classes where students build giant, impressive snow sculptures, play broomball, [and] stay out all night." Students also mention "house parties and moderate drinking/merrymaking [to] warm up the cold winters." Many stay warm by keeping active, and with "over 200 clubs," students say "there are a lot of opportunities to get involved." Student athletes compete across 14 NCAA sports, including seven men's teams and seven women's teams. The campus itself is "incredibly safe" and supports a "strong student community." With students who are both "outdoorsy" and like to "stay in and play video games," Huskies generally "work hard during the week and look forward to relaxing and having fun on the weekends."