I chose to live on campus mainly for the convenience. I also get the full-college experience. I have a great roommate, I eat at the dining halls, and I am only feet away from class and events going on. I have been to comedy shows, talent shows, and casino nights. I like the independent feeling that living on campus gives.
–Lori A.
What activities or groups are you apart of on campus?
As a transfer student to UDM going into my sophomore year, one of my goals was to take it easy on myself. At Kalamazoo College, I had got involved in everything from newspaper to politics, and religion. I was quite tired by the year’s end, and realized if I did transfer, I would focus on those things relative to my major or minors. That which was relative was writing for the newspaper. I have written for school newspapers from middle school throughout high school and last year at Kalamazoo College. Coming here, I was quite happy to find probably the best staff and editorial team I have ever worked with. I have worked with some who have scheduled ridiculous deadlines. As a writer, trying to find sources along with keeping up with his classes, it can be annoying. At UDM, the paper is anything but that. The editors are willing to help (unlike some I have worked with in the past), and want to make sure you have guidance for your story. It is quite a difference from my past interactions with other editors. In fact, it is an improvement!
–Tommy Z.
Yes. My minor is creative writing. I chose it because in Digital Media Studies, we have to have a concentration and I love to write. I also love poetry. It was a no-brainer for me.
–Estia Scott
When I first started off at the University of Detroit Mercy, I was unsure of what I wanted to do with my life. I started off as a business major, because I was interested in learning about trends in the economy and the business degree had many different components, such as Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Economics, and many others. I thought that by choosing business, I was sure to be interested in one of the concentrations. After three years at the University, I decided that business just was not for me, but all the information I learned was very beneficial. I became very interested in art and working with different forms of media. I then transferred from the business school to Digital Media Studies, but with a minor in business. The courses that I have taken in the business degree have taught me a lot about the economy, consumerism, and different marketing techniques, which could really benefit me in a future career and even in life. I really enjoy Digital Media Studies now, because it allows me to use creativity and thinking to create different forms of art, ranging from logos, poster designs, book designs, promotional videos, website designs, and even public art. Digital Media Studies could benefit me in the future, because almost every business or company needs an image as well as many visuals to promote themselves and advertise their products. I have really enjoyed all my college experiences so far, and am very content and happy with my switch to Digital Media Studies.
–Michael H.
When I was searching for my college of choice, my top priorities were cost, location, good teacher to student communication, and the quality of their architecture program. What brought the University of Detroit Mercy to the top of my list was the uniqueness of their architecture program. What other architecture students have to do in 6 years, UDM managed to cram into 5, which lowered the cost of the degree.
The small teacher to student ratio allows for a better learning experience, since there is more one on one time for the students. UDM’s architecture program integrates aesthetic, design, community involvement, and urban development into the curriculum, and the school is highly interwoven with the city of Detroit. The school’s location itself was enough to pull me in. Living in a small, no-name town, where the only thing we’re famous for is our manhole cover factory, makes the historic and moving city of Detroit look all the more glamorous. Even though UDM is pricey, they have a lot to teach, especially within their architecture program. With all these factors brought together, I chose UDM.
–Ashley B.
I want to be able to get a job right out of college. There are many jobs out there, but having a degree narrows down what my profession can be. It was the hardest thing to figure out what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Going to college helped me figure that out. I want to do what I love and get paid for it.
–Troy S.
A major is a subject or academic area of study that represents a principal interest. You can find a major for almost any field you are attracted to: from business management to architecture, fine arts to foreign language, religious studies to criminal justice, and beyond. A major gives you a focus—something to concentrate on. You have a specific set of classes to take and goals to achieve, so you know what you need to put your energy into. Your college endeavors have a better sense of purpose because you are learning about and studying certain subjects that actually interest you, as opposed to wasting time and money on courses that have nothing to do with the career you see yourself fulfilling for the rest of your life. Basically, that is the actual purpose of a major: to put you in classes that will prepare you for your future job outside of college. You are the one who has to take the initiative and learn what you need to know.
– Michelle D.
My alternative to college would have been to work full-time. I would have used what work background I had throughout high school to find a full-time job. If I were not in college now, I would have already moved out of Michigan.
–Laura
After graduating high school I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. I was accepted into college but I wasn’t really sure I wanted to go. I was told by so many people that deciding to go to college was the best decision that I could make for my life. So I went I chose to major in psychology. But deep down inside I knew that it was not something that I wanted to do. I went to college on someone else’s whim- as a result I almost dropped out. I talked to advisors and they tried their best to find a way for mw to become interested in being a student. They recommended that I take classes geared toward creativity. I took their advice and began to fall in love with school. Digital Media Studies became my major and I love it to pieces- I don’t know where I would be without it.
-Darlene F.
Like most people of my age, I went to college in the hopes of getting a degree. In today’s world, it is essential to pursue an education after high school in order to get recognized by jobs. There is large competition in today’s job market, and the only way to make it far in the next forty years is to suck it up and deal with four years of stress. I also think college was necessary for me to transition into adulthood. It made me realize a lot of things about growing up and how to take on the world once I go out on my own.
–Ben K.
There is enough variety on our small campus when it comes to events. There was the International Night, where many different ethnic foods were served were performances as well. Yoga, a favorite challenge of mine is offered every Monday at seven. It is relaxing in the way that it makes you solely focus on trying to hold the positions. It also stretches me out.
Theater is another part of campus life– the most recent play for the year is Autobahn, a project between Theater, Digital Media Studies, and Architecture students. Its become a factor in my life in the way that has made itself home in the areas that I’m comfortable in. I’ve seen a lot of the effort people put into it and its made me much more appreciative of the theater department and everyone who participates in it.
Last but not least there is graduation– who wouldn’t be excited about that? Except for the fact I’m losing a few really great friends, graduation is a euphoric situation I cannot wait for.
–Kamara F.
What is the greatest thing about college you didn’t know before you got here?
One of the greatest things about college I didn’t know before I got here isthat you find and focus on what you want to do for the rest of your life. You’re looking into what you will most likely do for the rest of your life. You’re looking into what you will most likely be doing for the first part of your life. College is a learning experience and as you progress, you find new things that interest you and stray your attention away– sometimes for the good and sometimes for the bad. College is the last point in the road before you step onto the sand, dip a toe in the water, and start swimming towards what you hope is the sunset.
–Nick Y.
1. That you won’t always like or see eye-to-eye with your peers or your professors. The key is to understand that everyone has something to offer and that you can learn something new as long as you have an open mind.
2. (Graphic Design) That your work, through a very personal process, should be viewed in critiques as a chance to learn. Critiques exist not to hurt your feelings, but to make your work stronger.
3. That being yourself, all the time, is the best way to do well and succeed.
Paula Guthat from Marketing and Public Affairs and Nick Rombes from the English Department are my favorite professors. They’ve both inspired me with my work to be better. Also, they’ve made my college experience more worthwhile. I feel more accomplished knowing them.
–Gabby R.
How does college help you with what you want to do later in life?
While in college I learned many valuable things that will help me later in life. First I learned about proper design; what it looked like and how to use it. I also learned skills such as how to use tools to improve the speed of my work. Mostly I learned how to be a self-motivated individual with a strong work ethic. College was extremely influential in my life and has taught me how be successful in my professional life.
- Trevor B.
Why did you choose to live on campus?
I chose to live on campus mainly for the convenience. I also get the full-college experience. I have a great roommate, I eat at the dining halls, and I am only feet away from class and events going on. I have been to comedy shows, talent shows, and casino nights. I like the independent feeling that living on campus gives.
–Lori A.
What activities or groups are you apart of on campus?
As a transfer student to UDM going into my sophomore year, one of my goals was to take it easy on myself. At Kalamazoo College, I had got involved in everything from newspaper to politics, and religion. I was quite tired by the year’s end, and realized if I did transfer, I would focus on those things relative to my major or minors. That which was relative was writing for the newspaper. I have written for school newspapers from middle school throughout high school and last year at Kalamazoo College. Coming here, I was quite happy to find probably the best staff and editorial team I have ever worked with. I have worked with some who have scheduled ridiculous deadlines. As a writer, trying to find sources along with keeping up with his classes, it can be annoying. At UDM, the paper is anything but that. The editors are willing to help (unlike some I have worked with in the past), and want to make sure you have guidance for your story. It is quite a difference from my past interactions with other editors. In fact, it is an improvement!
–Tommy Z.
Do you have a minor? Why or why not?
Yes. My minor is creative writing. I chose it because in Digital Media Studies, we have to have a concentration and I love to write. I also love poetry. It was a no-brainer for me.
–Estia Scott
Why did you choose your major?
When I first started off at the University of Detroit Mercy, I was unsure of what I wanted to do with my life. I started off as a business major, because I was interested in learning about trends in the economy and the business degree had many different components, such as Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Economics, and many others. I thought that by choosing business, I was sure to be interested in one of the concentrations. After three years at the University, I decided that business just was not for me, but all the information I learned was very beneficial. I became very interested in art and working with different forms of media. I then transferred from the business school to Digital Media Studies, but with a minor in business. The courses that I have taken in the business degree have taught me a lot about the economy, consumerism, and different marketing techniques, which could really benefit me in a future career and even in life. I really enjoy Digital Media Studies now, because it allows me to use creativity and thinking to create different forms of art, ranging from logos, poster designs, book designs, promotional videos, website designs, and even public art. Digital Media Studies could benefit me in the future, because almost every business or company needs an image as well as many visuals to promote themselves and advertise their products. I have really enjoyed all my college experiences so far, and am very content and happy with my switch to Digital Media Studies.
–Michael H.
Why UDM?
When I was searching for my college of choice, my top priorities were cost, location, good teacher to student communication, and the quality of their architecture program. What brought the University of Detroit Mercy to the top of my list was the uniqueness of their architecture program. What other architecture students have to do in 6 years, UDM managed to cram into 5, which lowered the cost of the degree.
The small teacher to student ratio allows for a better learning experience, since there is more one on one time for the students. UDM’s architecture program integrates aesthetic, design, community involvement, and urban development into the curriculum, and the school is highly interwoven with the city of Detroit. The school’s location itself was enough to pull me in. Living in a small, no-name town, where the only thing we’re famous for is our manhole cover factory, makes the historic and moving city of Detroit look all the more glamorous. Even though UDM is pricey, they have a lot to teach, especially within their architecture program. With all these factors brought together, I chose UDM.
–Ashley B.
What is your goal after college?
I want to be able to get a job right out of college. There are many jobs out there, but having a degree narrows down what my profession can be. It was the hardest thing to figure out what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Going to college helped me figure that out. I want to do what I love and get paid for it.
–Troy S.
What is the value of having a major?
A major is a subject or academic area of study that represents a principal interest. You can find a major for almost any field you are attracted to: from business management to architecture, fine arts to foreign language, religious studies to criminal justice, and beyond. A major gives you a focus—something to concentrate on. You have a specific set of classes to take and goals to achieve, so you know what you need to put your energy into. Your college endeavors have a better sense of purpose because you are learning about and studying certain subjects that actually interest you, as opposed to wasting time and money on courses that have nothing to do with the career you see yourself fulfilling for the rest of your life. Basically, that is the actual purpose of a major: to put you in classes that will prepare you for your future job outside of college. You are the one who has to take the initiative and learn what you need to know.
– Michelle D.
What would have been the alternative to college?
My alternative to college would have been to work full-time. I would have used what work background I had throughout high school to find a full-time job. If I were not in college now, I would have already moved out of Michigan.
–Laura
Why did you choose your major?
After graduating high school I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. I was accepted into college but I wasn’t really sure I wanted to go. I was told by so many people that deciding to go to college was the best decision that I could make for my life. So I went I chose to major in psychology. But deep down inside I knew that it was not something that I wanted to do. I went to college on someone else’s whim- as a result I almost dropped out. I talked to advisors and they tried their best to find a way for mw to become interested in being a student. They recommended that I take classes geared toward creativity. I took their advice and began to fall in love with school. Digital Media Studies became my major and I love it to pieces- I don’t know where I would be without it.
-Darlene F.
Why did you go to college?
Like most people of my age, I went to college in the hopes of getting a degree. In today’s world, it is essential to pursue an education after high school in order to get recognized by jobs. There is large competition in today’s job market, and the only way to make it far in the next forty years is to suck it up and deal with four years of stress. I also think college was necessary for me to transition into adulthood. It made me realize a lot of things about growing up and how to take on the world once I go out on my own.
–Ben K.
What are some events that happen on campus?
There is enough variety on our small campus when it comes to events. There was the International Night, where many different ethnic foods were served were performances as well. Yoga, a favorite challenge of mine is offered every Monday at seven. It is relaxing in the way that it makes you solely focus on trying to hold the positions. It also stretches me out.
Theater is another part of campus life– the most recent play for the year is Autobahn, a project between Theater, Digital Media Studies, and Architecture students. Its become a factor in my life in the way that has made itself home in the areas that I’m comfortable in. I’ve seen a lot of the effort people put into it and its made me much more appreciative of the theater department and everyone who participates in it.
Last but not least there is graduation– who wouldn’t be excited about that? Except for the fact I’m losing a few really great friends, graduation is a euphoric situation I cannot wait for.
–Kamara F.
What is the greatest thing about college you didn’t know before you got here?
One of the greatest things about college I didn’t know before I got here isthat you find and focus on what you want to do for the rest of your life. You’re looking into what you will most likely do for the rest of your life. You’re looking into what you will most likely be doing for the first part of your life. College is a learning experience and as you progress, you find new things that interest you and stray your attention away– sometimes for the good and sometimes for the bad. College is the last point in the road before you step onto the sand, dip a toe in the water, and start swimming towards what you hope is the sunset.
–Nick Y.
Three things I’ve learned in college:
1. That you won’t always like or see eye-to-eye with your peers or your professors. The key is to understand that everyone has something to offer and that you can learn something new as long as you have an open mind.
2. (Graphic Design) That your work, through a very personal process, should be viewed in critiques as a chance to learn. Critiques exist not to hurt your feelings, but to make your work stronger.
3. That being yourself, all the time, is the best way to do well and succeed.
–Elizabeth Z.
Who is your favorite professor and why?
Paula Guthat from Marketing and Public Affairs and Nick Rombes from the English Department are my favorite professors. They’ve both inspired me with my work to be better. Also, they’ve made my college experience more worthwhile. I feel more accomplished knowing them.
–Gabby R.
How does college help you with what you want to do later in life?
While in college I learned many valuable things that will help me later in life. First I learned about proper design; what it looked like and how to use it. I also learned skills such as how to use tools to improve the speed of my work. Mostly I learned how to be a self-motivated individual with a strong work ethic. College was extremely influential in my life and has taught me how be successful in my professional life.
- Trevor B.