Aaron
The best thing to me about Western is for those that want to learn, there are ample opprotunities and resources available to do so. One thing I would change is the minnimum requirements to remain a student. I would say for the setting the school is a perfect size. Most people say things like, "Oh, I went to a killer party there." and "WESTERN RULES!" I spend most of my time on campus in Schneider hall because I am a pre-business student. I would say it is a decent college town. There are things here to do for students. I would say the administration here is fantastic. I can't think of any recent controversies. There is a definetly a lot of school pride here. People are proud to be Broncos.
Tobias
WMU campus has some of the best local food around. Transportation has been easy both by Bronco Transit with their brown and gold campus routes connecting to the city's Metro Transit lines, making it easy to get to near by shopping mall, movie theaters, etc. Class are not too big and there is still student teacher interaction in larger class sizes.
Margaret
The best thing about the school is the friendly atmosphere. Being a freshman at a large state school can be intimidating but everyone does their best to make sure you're comfortable. All the freshman in the school are on the same page, they're there to get their money's worth in education as well as a good time and both have been fulfilled since I arrived. I'd probably change the checking in to the dorms after 9:00 pm. They have us give them our I.D.'s when we walk in and they check to see if we live there and if you have a guest they write down all of your and your guests information. I realize it's for our safety so I'm understanding but honestly it's just a pain. My personal preference of the size of the school is that it's perfect but different people prefer different size schools so choosing what's right for you individually is important. I see people I know on campus all the time but I also see a new person everyday so it's kind of the best of both worlds in a sense. When I tell people I go to Western I usually get an indifferent response. It's a credible university and people can't deny that but it's not an Ivy League school so people aren't always overly impressed. Most people respond well though also because of the area it's in. Kalamazoo is a great town and a lot of people admire the location. I spend most of my time in the dorms, either my room or a friends just because I don't have a car and transportation is limited after 10:00 pm. I also enjoy studying in the Bernard Center which is the student center at Western. It can be too quiet in the library for me and the Bernard Center offers a more relaxed area with a Bigby Coffee, a Subway and an ice cream shop. Kalamazoo is definitely a college town with things to do for young people and plenty of bars for those over twenty one. Downtown provides restaurants and live music in multiple locations for students to spend their time. There's also a large amount of student housing all around the city surrounding campus making for a college town feel. The administration provides many ways for students to get involved and multiple ways for contact if need be. The biggest recent controversy on campus would probably be someone breaking the picnic table outside the dorms. Honestly I haven't heard much controversy regarding large issues, I'm not sure if that's because I haven't looked or if nothing's happened. There's some school pride definitely. A lot of people tailgate before the football games and sometimes the marching band will march around campus the Friday before a game to get the students ready. Many people also attend the hockey and basketball games to show their support. As far as unusual goes I'd say nothing really. There's a lot of different types of people at Western and everyone has a place somewhere you just have to find yours. What I mean is that to some people the students might be unusual but they are themselves. I'll always remember the dorm experience. Having to live with someone you've never met before or someone you've known your whole life is difficult. Everyone should experience it, it shows you a lot about yourself and some great life lessons like understanding others, patience and priorities. The most frequent student complaints would have to be the checking in to the dorms every night, the cafeteria food, money, and just basic dorm issues such as roommate troubles, and living in a tight space.
Elizabeth
I am in love with my school! The campus is the perfect size. It's not too huge and overwhelming, or too small to where you don't get that "college atmosphere." The campus is beautiful during all the seasons. The academic buildings are up to date with the best equipment and technology. Western is currently working on updating one of the large buildings that holds the college of education.
Western leads by example when it comes to being handicapped accessible. My school has done everything possible to make it easy for all students to get around independently. Another great thing about Western is how "green" it is. Western has received nationwide recognition for their efforts to create a sustainable campus.
Western also supplies students with resources for every step of their way through their college career. Whether it be finding a major, creating a resume, or searching for jobs after graduation, Western has a department there to help.
Alyssa
I love WMU because it is a division one university that is very diverse. There are all types of people that attend WMU.There is a good balance between males and females, a good balance between race and religion, and there are all different types of clubs and activities as well. Also, WMU is located in a fairly large city with a lot of little towns surrounding it, giving you a lot of opportunity for things to do. Downtown Kalamazoo has countless restaurants and stores for your convenience and lots of nice parks. Another cool thing about WMU, is that they try to give every student the feeling of school spirit! I still remember my freshmen orientation when all the orientation leaders were so excited and enthusiastic to be there and welcome you to the school. It really made an impact on how comfortable I felt as an incoming student. Lastly, even though Western's Greek life isn't very large, it's nice because you know everyone and it is like a little community! I enjoy going to WMU because even though it is a fairly large school in a pretty large town, it still has that "small town" feel.
Remy
Excellent school with and only getting better with the addition of a medical school
Nick
My overall opinion of Western Michigan University has improved since I began as a freshman and became more comfortable in a university setting. I feel I am getting a solid education for my tuition, especially compared to some other schools in the state. The best thing about being a Bronco is the small community feel you get, but the convenience of a large university with an attractive campus. Professionals and future employers are always familiar with Western Michigan University when I mention I'm a Bronco and I have noticed a large amount of recruitment from many national companies. The surrounding campus area has all the shops, restaurants, and residential options a college student could need. Bronco hockey is a wintertime favorite among students and the Lawson Lunatics (the hockey student section) are some of the rowdiest hockey fans you'll come across. My only complaint is the disconnect between downtown Kalamazoo and the campus area. Public transportation is available and widely used by students, but compared to U of M's campus or MSU's Grand River Ave, it doesn't compete.
Nick
My overall opinion of Western Michigan University has improved since I began as a freshman. I feel I am getting a solid education for my tuition, especially compared to some other schools in the state. The best thing about being a Bronco is the small community feel you get, but the convenience of a large university with an attractive campus. Professionals and future employers are always familiar with Western Michigan University and I have noticed a large amount of recruitment from many national companies. Most academic buildings have unique study lounges, and Waldo Library is right in the center of campus - the place where I probably spend most of my time. As for Kalamazoo, it's a great college town. The surrounding campus area has all the shops, restaurants, and residential options a college student could need. Bronco hockey is a wintertime favorite among students and the Lawson Lunatics (the hockey student section) are some of the rowdiest hockey fans. My only complaint is the disconnect between downtown Kalamazoo and the campus area. Public transportation is available and widely used by students, but compared to U of M's campus or MSU's Grand River Ave, it doesn't compete.
Nick
My overall opinion of Western Michigan University has improved since I began as a freshman. I feel I am getting a solid education for my tuition, especially compared to some other schools in the state. The blend of a large school with a sprawling campus, but small community feel is what attracts many students to Western. Long story short, upon graduation I will be confident in my abilities to enter the professional arena, but I'll be sad to leave.
Kayla
I love Western, The campus is big, but small enough to still feel community. I knew that I wanted to go here immediately after I had a tour of the campus. There is so much to do and many activities to be a part of. There is always something going on, on campus. This college town is located near tons of great restaurants and lots of bars for an exciting social life.