University of Michigan vs Michigan State: What's the lowdown?

Hi all, I'm caught in a dilemma between University of Michigan and Michigan State. Anyone mind sharing their thoughts or experiences that might help me decide between these two? Any insight would be helpful.

Sure, happy to help break down the key differences between the two:

1. Academic Reputation: On a national and international level, University of Michigan (U-M) has a higher academic reputation and is regarded among the top public universities in the U.S. If prestige and academic rigor are important to you, U-M might be a better fit.

2. Program Strength: Each university has its own strengths in specific programs. For example, U-M is known for its engineering, business, and med schools, while Michigan State (MSU) is known for its packaging, hospitality, and communication programs. Your choice might depend on your desired major and career goals.

3. Community and Campus Life: U-M is located in Ann Arbor which has a more urban feel and a vibrant culture, while MSU, located in East Lansing, has a more typical college town environment. MSU has a much larger campus and offers a more traditional college experience with larger green spaces. Remember, you'll be spending a lot of time there, so consider the campus atmosphere that suits you more.

4. Class Size: University of Michigan tends to have larger class sizes, especially for general education and introductory courses. If you prefer smaller classes where you might have more personal contact with professors, MSU could be a better choice.

5. Athletics: U-M is part of the Big Ten Conference, as is MSU. Both have strong sports cultures, so if that's something you enjoy, you'd find plenty of spirit at either school.

6. Cost: U-M is generally more expensive than MSU, but remember that financial aid can make a big difference. Use their net price calculators to estimate the cost for you specifically.

Remember to visit both campuses (COVID permitting) to see which feels more comfortable for you. Ultimately, you want to choose a place where you feel you can thrive both acadically and socially.