University of Michigan-Flint (UM-Flint)

University of Michigan – Flint allows students to pursue higher education at a “reputable” school armed with an “affordable” price tag. Undergrads greatly appreciate the “flexibility of class hours” which certainly “suits [a] work schedule.” Indeed, with its myriad of online courses and an “excellent child-care program” to boot, the “convenience” UM-Flint offers is a dream for non-traditional students. Academically, students are thrilled with their professors. A “real asset,” educators here are “accommodating, accessible, and seek to build rewarding relationships with their students.” And while “they expect a lot from you,” they also “go out of their way…to help you out in whatever way possible.” Undoubtedly, UM-Flint professors “want you to succeed” and are “very encouraging.” What’s more, they are “very knowledgeable about their [chosen] subjects” and they have “a lot of [professional] experience [upon which] to draw anecdotes.” Overall, University of Michigan Flint is an institution that “motiv[ates] and inspires [its students] to reach greater academic heights.”

It’s a point of pride for UM-Flint students that there’s “no typical” student. Indeed, the undergrad population is fairly “diverse, especially in age and life experience.” As one pleased student elaborates, “All walks, cultures, sexual orientations, etc. interact and learn together and from each other.” Another undergrad continues, “There is a mixture of students. Some are freshmen right out of high school. Others are middle-aged and looking to improve on the life they’ve already built for themselves. Still others are young adults who have tried some other fields and are looking for a better fit. I love the diversity in terms of background. I believe there is a place for everyone here.” Beyond age and ethnicity, students at UM-Flint find their peers to be “friendly,” “reserved” and “busy balancing work and school.” Finally, “a small campus means everyone knows everyone. You’re always waving to or holding the door for someone you know.”

Given the high percentage of non-traditional and commuter students, some undergrads complain that “life at UM-Flint can [feel] a little stifled.” However, others argue just as fervently that “school life is what you want to make for yourself” and quickly point out that “the university has many club and organizations.” Certainly, “there is usually something happening at least every other week like movies in the Kiva, or free food somewhere.” Another student makes mention of the fact that “the dorms have brought a social life to campus” and specifically calls out the Greek community for all the events they sponsor. And, of course, there are the social staples of “hang[ing] out, go[ing] to the mall, study[ing], work[ing] out, party[ing], bowling, throw[ing] darts, play[ing] cards and play[ing] video games.” When undergrads tire of campus life, they can head into town. Though some claim the area is “sketchy,” others counter that downtown Flint offers “a number of eateries, bars, art galleries, and events.” In addition, “the farmer’s market and cultural center are both walkable from campus.” What more could a college student ask for?