Victor Views Blog: Student Perspectives

Take it from us: if you're in Ann Arbor for the summer months, the view seems different. Here are a few student perspectives about the vibe, things to do, and ways Michigan changes during these less hectic terms.

ResNavs wrap up their winter appointments on the last day of classes, resuming in May with a smaller spring/summer staff. (Appointments linked in article.) As an entire student body, we look ahead. From beaches in Thailand, to work in NYC, to assisting in the dental clinic (while studying for the DAT), we ask, "What's next?"

Getting ready to register for the next term? Trying to put all the pieces together? Consider the benefit of exploratory course work and opportunities. We know; sometimes, it doesn't seem like you're going to have enough time to fit everything in and get your degree on time. Trust us. You can. (Unless, maybe, you have dual majors, but sometimes there's still space, even then.) Here's what we've learned.

#SoYF (Smile on Your Face) events are designed to be 5-minute wellness breaks where you participate in something identified in U-M's 8 Dimensions of Well-Being. ResNavs are collaborating with the Office of Financial Aid and U-M Credit Union to bring you this February (2025) well-being break based on financial wellness & planning. We'll also share some lessons learned along the way.

As always, ResNavs recommend students seek professional advice from the Office of Financial Aid and other student service centers on campus. If you are experiencing financial distress or an emergency in funding, please contact the Dean of Students Office who can assist you in triage relief.

We get it. We're on it: Reddit. But sometimes, we see misinformation or low-quality content that might not lead Wolverines in the best direction for success. We can end up in echo chambers or worry about privacy. In this Victor Views, we'll share our in-depth responses to a few recent questions. Sometimes, all you need is a quick, anonymous response. Other times, a real person is a real help. Talk to us.

Everyone has their own take on how to get through end-of-term studying an exams. Here are six recommendations from the ResNavs; maybe one is yours?

ResNavs share tips and techniques for getting over the hassles of registration. Have other questions? Talk to us.

Victor Views provide peer-to-peer wayfinding information in blog format. We've picked topics that reflect frequently asked questions in Resource Navigator appointments and at our Information Desks. You might've clicked here from fresh article posts on @umichcampusinfo Instagram and X. Take a look!

Here's a series of "My Michigan" posts by Resource Navigators, sharing how they've found their community at U-M.

Victor Views provide peer-to-peer wayfinding information in blog format. We've picked topics that reflect frequently asked questions in Resource Navigator appointments and at our Information Desks. You might've clicked here from fresh article posts on @umichcampusinfo Instagram and X. Take a look!

Here's a series of "My Michigan" posts by Resource Navigators, sharing how they've found their community at U-M.

Victor Views provide peer-to-peer wayfinding information in blog format. We've picked topics that reflect frequently asked questions in Resource Navigator appointments and at our Information Desks. You might've clicked here from fresh article posts on @umichcampusinfo Instagram and X. Take a look!

Here's a series of "My Michigan" posts by Resource Navigators, sharing how they've found their community at U-M.

Victor Views provide peer-to-peer wayfinding information in blog format. We've picked topics that reflect frequently asked questions in Resource Navigator appointments and at our Information Desks. You might've clicked here from fresh article posts on @umichcampusinfo Instagram and X. Take a look!

Here's a series of "My Michigan" posts by Resource Navigators, sharing how they've found their community at U-M.

Victor Views provide peer-to-peer wayfinding information in blog format. We've picked topics that reflect frequently asked questions in Resource Navigator appointments and at our Information Desks. You might've clicked here from fresh article posts on @umichcampusinfo Instagram and X. Take a look!

Here's a series of "My Michigan" posts by Resource Navigators, sharing how they've found their community at U-M.

Victor Views provide peer-to-peer wayfinding information in blog format. We've picked topics that reflect frequently asked questions in Resource Navigator appointments and at our Information Desks. You might've clicked here from fresh article posts on @umichcampusinfo Instagram and X. Take a look!

Here's a series of "My Michigan" posts by Resource Navigators, sharing how they've found their community at U-M.

As Wolverines, we’re part of a vibrant and diverse community. Yet, in the flurry of academic challenges, social activities, and personal growth, it’s crucial to not lose sight of an essential component that fuels all other endeavors: our mental health. At the University of Michigan, “M” stands not only for the triumphs of Maize and Blue but equally for mindfulness, mental well-being, and mutual support. Whether you’re seeking connection, needing support, or looking to contribute to the broader community's health, the resources are abundant. Let's look at some examples.

We have some time until the presidential elections on November 5, however, it’s never too early to stay informed! Voting's not only a right, but a responsibility and a privilege. It gives us a voice in shaping our future and the country’s future. To help you exercise this right, we've gathered updated resources to help you prepare for the voting season. Click for links and locations.

MeetYourClass, a web-based platform established by students from the University of Michigan in September 2022, Blake Mischley and Jonah Liss (Michigan Daily, Feb. 22, 2023), is making significant waves in the college community. Aimed at easing the often daunting transition into college life for prospective and current students, this innovative tool is fast becoming an essential social connector on campuses nationwide.

Here’s a review of the MDex mobile app, created by U-M students Charles Zhong, Julius Studhec, and Pranav Thotakura, and launched in August 2023 (Michigan News, January 17, 2024). 

The eternal summer struggle: classes, internships, clinical hours, standardized tests, research, and probably many more that I cannot think of. It’s like the sun is mocking us from outside. However, we can still take back our summer with a lovely balance! I am struggling, too, with this balance; however, with two summers filled with chemistry classes, I think I’ve found some good strategies.

As Wolverines, we’re part of a vibrant and diverse community. Yet, in the flurry of academic challenges, social activities, and personal growth, it’s crucial to not lose sight of an essential component that fuels all other endeavors: our mental health. At the University of Michigan, “M” stands not only for the triumphs of Maize and Blue but equally for mindfulness, mental well-being, and mutual support. Whether you’re seeking connection, needing support, or looking to contribute to the broader community's health, the resources are abundant.

The final countdown: regrets, best moments, and passing on lessons learned to the next Wolverines, from senior Nancy Chen (LSA Org Studies & PPE).

No need to panic! Follow these tips in order to successfully prepare for finals. You've got this, Wolverines.

With careful planning and the right resources at your disposal, you'll be well-equipped to craft a fulfilling academic journey at U-M.

Studying for exams in college can be a daunting task, especially when transitioning from high school. It’s difficult to find the motivation to study and even more difficult to stay focused once you start. While studying looks different for everyone, I would like to share some of the things I do to make it a bit more bearable (and, dare I say, fun)!

Are you accepted and considering attending the University of Michigan? Are you a current student and feeling nostalgic? Read a reflection from one of current Resource Navigators, who is both a graduate and a current grad student in the School of Pharmacology.

Maybe it's the first time you're building a schedule after orientation. Maybe you're trying to close in on graduation requirements and progress to degree. You might even be thinking about electives as building blocks that you can use in graduate work. We can help you think through those and we know the people who can provide pathways and answers. Talk to us.

The University of Michigan is a hotbed for personal growth. Marked by an emphasis on involvement, the university offers a range of extracurricular opportunities that are so far reaching, you wouldn’t even believe that some of them exist. During my time at Michigan, I’ve been fortunate to explore a number of these opportunities and develop myself as a leader - something that was of high value to me coming into the school my freshman year. However, I know how overwhelming things can get.

Here's a quick checklist of dos and don'ts when applying to on-campus and outside internships! Follow these and you'll be on your way in no time.

Michigan is known for its brutal winters, but I’ve come to enjoy the Michigan winters because of all the activities I do to keep myself occupied and find joy in the cold. [Click for ideas!]