It's interesting to read the perspectives people have about your state and the schools there. I'm a life-long Michiganian and I've traveled to most corners of our country. I wouldn't live anywhere else. Every state is about what you make of it. I grew up in MSU's backyard and now live just north of Grand Rapids. I love it over here and enjoyed growing up in mid-Michigan.
And as a Spartan all I can say is that I hope he can take off his familiarity breeds indifference glasses and see what an opportunity he has to go to Michigan. Like any good Spartan, I despise Michigan but even I know that kids from around the country would chop off their right arm for the opportunity to attend there.
I had 150 in my graduating class and I couldn't wait to get to a big university. So nice to not have everyone know your business and have some privacy to choose your own path!
