Michigan is a great school, but it has some weaknesses. At the end of the day, it's most important that you find the program that you fit in the best because Michigan and all of its peers can get you where you want to go.
What is the fit of Michigan?
Focus is on teamwork and "paying it forward". A lot of work is in groups and second years are expected to help and/or coach first years, though they do so with mixed results. Of course, there is the action-based learning component for which Michigan is best known. Lastly, look into the Sanger Leadership Center and the Center for Positive Organizations, they look to mold future leaders and have lots of resources.
The good?
- Professors have been good; know the material and are approachable
- Career Services is top notch; if you work hard on your candidacy, you will get a great job
- Some classmates are "givers", always have time with help with anything
- Many off the beaten path experiences that are awesome. Read all of your emails and make time!
The bad?
- Some classmates clearly aren't at the caliber of a graduate business degree
- Brand recognition for Ross could be better
The neutral?
- Alumni are hit or miss. Some love the school and respond with great help, some ignore your requests
- A lot of school will be what you make out of it: how much you devote to class or career. Many classmates will complain that you can't do everything, but you can if you are targeted (i.e. don't recruit for McKinsey just because of the name)
Overall, just be honest with yourself about what you want to get out of the MBA and only do things that are aligned with that mission. Write yourself a letter the summer before to have something to remind you. That way when 200 people go to the Google presentation and you are recruiting for banking, you skip it. You're paying $200k for a life-changing experience, don't let anyone or anything stop you from getting all the value from Michigan during your time here.
Have started shifting to a more academic program from a more casual one. Workload can be a lot at times, but never overwhelming if you budget your time.
Every one of the major players recruits here.
Overall BSchool experience (4.0)
Schools contribution (5.0)
Classmates rating (2.0)
Curriculum, Classes, Professors
Career opportunities provided by school
Facilities
Consulting
Marketing
Student body, diversity
Alumni Network
Brand/Ranking