There are three reasons I chose to go to University of Michigan. First was the fact that it had a great Urban Planning program, listed in the top 25 of the nation on major planning blogs. University of Michigan looks impressive on a resume, but even more impressive is the amount of opportunities it has delivered during my short stay here. I'm quite sure I've written about them before, but let me add that the professors I've had here have been completely solid, practical, thought-provoking, and dedicated. From countless people I have heard about the alumni network and its effectiveness in finding people jobs. As a 2009 Bachelor's degree graduate, this was key. The job market had completely deflated by the time I entered it. Fortunately, things have seemed to improve during my two years in school and I have many people on my side, willing to pass on information to me and recommend me to employers.
Second, it's close to home. I had applied to schools all over the country, though once I had sent the applications, I realized I had no interest in studying in another state. I wish I had realized it earlier, since I paid a lot of application fees! I was born and raised in Michigan, my family is here, and I plan on staying here to find a job. So why study elsewhere? Michigan has seen many of my generation leave for other states currently in better financial shape, but honestly, I think that is a fluke. How would a state lined with beaches and filled with beautiful farmland lose appeal to anyone? Maybe the winters would repel some people, but even they are beautiful.
The third reason was its proximity to Detroit, though I did not realize at first how important this was. Detroit is currently the most studied city in the world, and the opportunities I've had to be able to study and engage with the struggling city have been incredible. My colleagues' passion for this city is awe-inspiring as well. Last year I helped my good friend make a public comment to the Detroit Department of Transportation in the form of a music video (Bring the Trains Down the Middle) about the Woodward Light Rail, which is now slated to be Bus Rapid Transit (which, in my humble opinion, is a reasonable and affordable option that cuts many capital costs with similar benefits for the residents). Going into graduate school, I saw my colleagues as competition (for some odd reason), but now they are inspiration to me. I have never seen so much heart go into coursework and so much energy go into extracurricular activities.
It's comforting to know I will not regret my decision to attend University of Michigan for my Master's degree. I'm excited to graduate, but I am also savoring my last semester here, knowing that I won't have a time like this again in my life.
Published in: Student Voices