The birthplace of Miller, among other things....

Introduction
Deciding on a University is a difficult decision, and I chose UW- Milwaukee not without hesitation, but now I know that I made the right choice. If you want to go into Film, Art, or Architecture, and want to stay in the affordable UW system, then Milwaukee is for you. The programs are some of the best within the system and the artistic environment in Milwaukee fosters growth of the creative mind. A student at UW-M does need to make an effort to meet people, because many incoming freshman have "high school friends." Also, anyone who can't handle the cold winter should choose a warmer location!

Campus Life and Social Life
The Social/ Campus life at UW-Milwaukee, or any college is truly what you make of it. Yes, there are parties and lots of them, but you might just find your real friends elsewhere. Take a risk and join a club or learn a skill that you have always wanted to learn-- you might meet some of your best friends in the process. Sandburg Halls (the dorms) offers a great place to get to know other freshman, although not all freshman are guaranteed housing, which presents and interesting dilemma of groups of freshman living in apartments around campus. The school is currently making great efforts to get more housing, especially for freshman. Sometimes the dorms get really quiet on the weekend when many residents go home, other times it is a chaotic party and everyone's invited! Advertisement
Academics
Entering into college with a high GPA, I wondered if UW-M was for me. I worried that the classes would be too easy and people wouldn't study. Its true, there are some teachers who are pretty easy, but the vast majority of them are excellent. Especially noteworthy is the Honors College, of which I am a part. Students take 27 extra credits and participate in seminars and discussion groups to graduate With Honors in their field. I recommend looking into being a part of this; all you have to do is test out of English 101 and 102 to be elligible. It is a great way enhance your academic experience as well as your resume!

Student Body
The typical student at UW-M is from Wisconsin, many from the Milwaukee or Madison area. There are some out of state students, but few and far between, from my experience. There is a growing number of International students from around the world that enrich the cultural awareness of the student body. You may find the diversity of color surprising for a Wisconsin school-- the kaleidescope of skin tones is quite apparent while walking through the Student Union during rush hour. Many students enjoy adventuring downtown, having parties, enjoying the nearby shores of Lake Michigan (but don't swim there!), attending Panther basketball games, supporting local teams like the Bucks or Brewers, and sipping the wonderful locally roasted Alterra coffee at the lakeshore.

In Closing...
The University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee is a great place to go to college and will develope your character as an individual in the world around you. We aren't stuck in the middle of the city, nor are we surrounded by cornfields. The students aren't below average nor are many off to Oxford, but are acheiving excellence in their fields of study. The city of Milwaukee is a rare gem of Wisconsin, historically, socially, and culturally. in my opinion, the university reflects some of that reputation. Think twice about where you want to go to college, and if you are ready for a little risk, choose UW- Milwaukee.