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Explore the Ann Arbor Campus

Ann Arbor, MI, USA

Experience what it's like to Go Blue! at the University of Michigan by taking our virtual tour. Through photos, descriptions, videos, 360 views, and student voices, you can learn about different schools, colleges, residence halls, buildings and campus landmarks. Just start clicking on the markers on the map. You can also take themed tours listed below.

We hope you enjoy getting a taste of Wolverine life and will visit us in person in the near future!

Check Out a Themed Tour

School for environment & sustainability (seas).

See the Dana Building, home of SEAS

Northern Central Campus

Explore the northern end of Central Campus.

Welcome to Michigan Ross!

Residence Halls

Learn more about housing at Michigan.

Literature, Science and the Arts (LSA)

Literature, Science, & the Arts is the largest undergraduate college at the University of Michigan. Join LSA junior Tala Alahmar on the steps of Angell Hall for an introduction to LSA.

Take a look around the Law Quad, one of U-M's most photographed buildings

Explore the Diag: the heart of Michigan's Central Campus.

State Street

Learn about the U-M buildings on State Street, just off the Diag.

Kinesiology

See the renovated Kinesiology Building.

Engineering

Discover more about the College of Engineering and its studios, classrooms, labs, and study spaces.

Learn about athletics at Michigan.

View locations by category

Academics & research.

• Angell Hall
• Biological Sciences Building
• Bob & Betty Beyster Building
• Chrysler Center
• College of Pharmacy
• Couzens Hall
• Duderstadt Center
• Electrical Engineering & Computer Science Building
• Ford Robotics Building
• Hatcher Graduate Library
• Liberty Research Annex and Gallery
• Life Sciences Institute
• LSA Building
• Medical School
• Michigan Union
• Rackham School of Graduate Studies
• Ross School of Business
• Marsal Family School of Education
• School of Nursing
• School of Public Health
• School of Social Work
• Undergraduate Library (UGLI)
• Undergraduate Science Building
• Weiser Hall
• Wilson Center
• Art & Architecture Building
• School of Kinesiology
• School of Dentistry
• Dana Building
• Crisler Center
• Michigan Stadium
• Yost Ice Arena

Residence Hall

• Alice Lloyd Hall
• Betsy Barbour
• Bursley Hall
• Fletcher Hall
• Helen Newberry
• Henderson House
• Martha Cook
• Mary Markley Hall
• Mosher-Jordan Hall
• Munger Graduate Residences
• Northwood I & II
• Northwood IV & V
• Oxford Houses
• Stockwell Hall

Transportation

• Central Campus Transit Center

Arts & Culture

• Burton Memorial Tower
• Kelsey Museum of Archaeology
• Lurie Tower
• Moore Building
• Museum of Natural History
• Trotter Multicultural Center
• University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA)

• Departments and Units
• Majors and Minors
• LSA Course Guide
• LSA Gateway

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Visit Campus

• LSA 101: Info for Admitted Students

Thinking of visiting campus? We’d love to see you and show you some of what makes the University of Michigan and the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts unique! Sign up for a tour or info session with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions  here  (or, you can watch a virtual information session ). 

If you come to visit campus, be sure to check out the following: 

• the new addition to the LSA Building
• the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology (next door to the LSA Building)
• the U-M Museum of Art (across the street from the LSA Building)  
• the new Central Campus Classroom Building
• the Museum of Natural History (be sure to check their website for their hours of operation)

To set up a meeting with an LSA academic department, please review the department’s website; then, contact them via phone or email. 

Please note: LSA does not give its own tours; instead, LSA-specific content is covered on the tours given by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. If you have questions about LSA, take a look at our website , where you can learn more about the liberal arts and LSA curriculum, see the list of majors and minors that LSA offers, hear about student life, and sign up for a Prospective Student Q&A Session. You can also reach out to [email protected] with questions as a prospective or admitted first-year student, or [email protected] with questions as a prospective or admitted transfer student. 

Message from the Office of Admissions regarding tours and visits:

• Click here for information on outdoor walking tours and information sessions. 
• Our Virtual Resources page offers many ways to discover more about Michigan. 
• Prospective students and families with questions may contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions via phone (734-764-7433) from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and email or live chat until 4:30 p.m. 

COVID-19 Information:  Although masking is now optional, mask use is still suggested as an effective strategy for enhanced personal protection, especially for those with immune status, those who are not vaccinated or up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, and anyone with a perceived increased situational risk. For the latest updates, please visit coronavirus.umich.edu . 

We want to talk to you and learn about what you’re interested in studying! Join current students and one of our recruitment staff, for a virtual Q&A session . You may also reach out via email to [email protected] or click on the link below to reserve your seat at the next session.

Transfer Students: Let's Talk

LSA has dedicated staff and student ambassadors who support the unique needs of transfer students and help them get the most out of their U-M education. Visit the Transfer Student Center website and schedule an appointment with the LSA Transfer Team to chat.

Virtual Visits

LSA Virtual Campus Tour

At LSA, what you see is what you get…and what you’ve got here is pretty incredible. You will love the LSA Building , an amazing space that's great for collaboration. This video uncovers stunning facilities, specialized equipment, and unique-to-us opportunities that are around every corner.

The U-M Campus

LSA is the largest of the university’s 19 schools and colleges, located entirely on Central Campus. Take a virtual stroll around to get the lay of the land, but be careful not to step on the brass Block M in the middle of the Diag. That’s bad luck!

The University of Michigan is located in Ann Arbor , often hailed as America’s best college town . Once you experience the food, festivals, fairs, museums (U-M has several), parks, art, performances, and a little thing called Football Saturday, you’ll get it. In fact, you may not want to leave.

Connect With a Department

Browse our academic departments . If you would like to learn more or to request an appointment, you can connect via phone or email using the contact information at the bottom of the department page.  Appointments should be requested with at least two weeks’ notice, and typically run up to 30 minutes.

There is a bit of homework you should finish before you meet:

• Review the unit’s website and degree requirements for the major(s) that interest you
• Review the LSA website and career visualization tool
• Prepare your list of questions

In-Person Info

Want the grand tour? Register online for a  Central Campus walking tour through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions .

Get familiar with your parking options and scope out available parking spots around town when you come visit. If you park on the street, take note (or a pic) of your parking spot number. You can add time to the meter from any pay station around campus. Because preparation > frustration and fines.

As a student you may get lost in a project or in a book, but we never want you to get physically lost! Check out this U-M driving tour , complete with points of interest and the all-important maps!

Revel in It

Art lovers can seek out our Public Art collection featuring outdoor installations around town. This art is beautiful, memorable, and instagrammable.

Don’t Miss It (Applies to the bus, but also class)

In this Admissions Blog , LSA student Lisa Kim details options for getting around campus. Your future self will thank you for the quick read.

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Visiting Campus

Welcome to the University of Michigan! This visitor guide provides an overview of the many campus features that make U-M such a special place. The pull-out map in the center of the guide will help you find your way around campus. Enjoy!

Campus Tours

Campus events.

U-M offers so many ways to get involved! The Center for Campus Involvement (CCI) hosts a variety of programs and activities. You can also search for events at events.umich.edu .

Enjoy the convenience of staying right on campus at The Inn at the Michigan League. To search for local hotels, check out visitannarbor.org .

Plan your University of Michigan Visit in Ann Arbor and Go Blue!

Planning a trip to Ann Arbor, MI with a prospective Wolverine? One visit with your high school student and you’ll quickly realize this midwest “Tree Town” offers much more to do beyond just a University of Michigan visit . With tree-lined streets, outdoor parks, a history of political activism, and a food scene to drool over, parents and students alike will find fun things to enjoy together. And, of course, a top-ranked National University according to U.S. News and World Report.

Planning a University of Michigan Visit

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Getting to The University of Michigan

If you are flying in for your visit, you will want to fly into DTW (Detroit Metropolitan Airport.) There are shuttle options to Ann Arbor, where the University of Michigan is located, or it is possible to take Uber or Lyft. But if you want to explore beyond the downtown and campus, the best way will be to either rent a car at the airport or use ZipCar or Maven vehicles found in parking garages around Ann Arbor.

Whether you are flying to Michigan and renting a car or driving in for your college visit, you are probably wondering where to park around The University of Michigan. With ePark , Ann Arbor’s paid street parking and lot parking is stress free and easily paid on go. After all, you don’t want your walking tour to turn into a parking ticket! To minimize parking hassles, book a hotel close to the university that includes parking in the rate.

No matter what brings you to this amazing little mecca, there are always plenty of great things to do, and so many athletic events. The Michigan stadium, also known as the BIG House, is the biggest draw, literally. The Michigan Wolverines claim the biggest stadium in the United States (and actually in the Western Hemisphere) and catching a game will definitely give you a taste of the college school spirit. Make sure to stop at The Drip House on game days. 

Walking tours of the University of Michigan are a must! Wear good shoes, and pace yourself on the campus tour as you check out the campus features such as Michigan Union, Hill Auditorium, and the Law Quad (and library). A central campus walking tour will also take you through the Diag — just make sure you don’t step on the M — it is said that will bring bad luck.

If you are visiting with a prospective student as part of the admissions process, be sure to register online for a tour and campus informational sessions with an admissions counselor. Campus visit options include both bus tours and walking tours of the downtown campus. If those tours for first-year students aren’t available and you are exploring yourselves, you will need a car to get to the North Campus and Beal Avenue where the Engineering and the new Ford Robotics Building are located.

What to do in Downtown A2

After walking through campus, you will enjoy taking a break at Nickels Arcade and Comet Cafe. Then if you have time, also plan to visit the University of Michigan Natural History Museum and the University of Michigan Museum of Art. 

A great way to explore this fun city if you have a group is High Five . This pedal-trolley tour lets you customize your route to include breweries, restaurants, book stores, and more.

If strolling to shops downtown is more cup of tea (or coffee), then get ready for bookstores like Literati, Crazy Wisdom Tea Room, and Dawn Treader. Stop to enjoy your newfound read in one of Main Street’s many coffee shops including Avalon and Shinola’s Cafe.

You can also check for current events at The Ark or The State Theater for even more fun on your weekend visit to Ann Arbor.

Where to Eat in Ann Arbor

When you get hungry, there are two Top Chef restaurants in Ann Arbor that are delicious but still affordable for a college budget — Frita Batidos and the Slurping Turtle.

Of course everyone you ask with ties to Ann Arbor will swear that the Rueben at Zingermans Deli is the best you will ever have. New Yorkers might beg to differ but they do serve up delicious sandwiches, knishes, and truly scrumptious kreplach soup.

Other spots in town such as the The Lunchroom, Miss Kims, Jolly Pumpkin Cafe will make everyone happy. If your current student is busy, The Earl, Sava’s, The Black Pearl, and Taste Kitchen will give you an excuse to get dressed up for parent’s night out!

Sava’s is a gorgeous restaurant and also a great spot for brunch on your weekend visit!

Get Outside

Discover Pure Michigan! Ann Arbor offers outdoor spaces, parks, and trails to enjoy as well. Most notably, Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum. There are gardens, a conservatory, and trails to explore.

Gallup Park is also a great place to enjoy the river and trails. While Fuller Park has an outdoor pool and waterpark to enjoy in warmer weather. But that isn’t all. If you’re looking for more ways to stretch your legs, make sure to see all that Ann Arbor parks and recreation have available.

Where to Stay in Ann Arbor

Just as with shopping and food, you’ll find a wide range of places to stay during your trip. If you are on a budget, there are traditional choices such as the Holiday Inn or a Hilton Garden Inn .

Ann Arbor also offers are historic and themed hotels such as The Kensington hotel and Webers Restaurant and Hotel . If you are coming in for a Parents’ Weekend, you may prefer a Bed & Breakfast. The Burnt Toast Inn and Stone Chalet are examples of two most popular options.

Our favorite choice when visiting with prospective students is The Graduate , which you will find in many university towns. Located just steps away from the main downtown campus, the location can’t be beat. The Graduate’s stylish interiors make you feel at home and connected with the local community. They also offer King suites, with a small separate den with a pull out couch, offering your teen privacy. When on a college visit, you will appreciate the extra space!

University of Michigan Student Life and Area Tips

Many traveling to The University of Michigan have a special student in mind. Whether you are visiting with a prospective student or coming to see your enrollee, below you’ll find some local information regarding services, stores, and great places to put together gift care packages.

Grocery Stores 

If you need to pick up groceries or other items for a care package, there are plenty of local stores including: Meijer, Target, Kroger, Trader Joe, Aldi’s, Buschs, Walmart, and Plum Market.

If your student needs anything before you get there, UberEats, GrubHub, and Postmates all offer delivery services. Instacart offers local options, as well as Shipt when shopping at Meijer and Target. Costco and Sam’s Club are both located in Ann Arbor, MI as well.

Bus Service

When traveling in this area, many utilize the local Park and Ride car lots. However, Ann Arbor traffic, crosswalk policies, and one-way streets can often be confusing until you get used to them. It may be easier to get around by checking out the UM and AATA routes and schedules to see if this is an option during your time here.

Allergen/Gluten Free

If your child has food allergies or follows a gluten-free diet, you will be happy to know that there are plenty of options in Ann Arbor. Silvio’s Pizza, Stadium Market, Blaze Pizza, CoreLife, and Tropical Smoothie are a few local restaurants that are allergen and gluten-friendly. You’ll find that Ann Arbor as a whole is very allergen friendly.

If you don’t see a menu marked allergen or gluten free, ask the hostess or waiter. Many locations typically have a separate allergen-friendly menu for you to view. You’ll also see that Tasty Bakery, and Big City Small World are perfect for your sweet tooth. There are often sold at local eateries so everyone can have dessert! 

More to Michigan

As amazing as you’ll find Ann Arbor is, this Great Lakes region has even more to offer. A day trip to Detroit’s Eastern Market and Campus Martius park is always a treat.

But the metro Detroit area has plenty of fun for you as well. Explore The Henry Ford museum in Dearborn, MI. If you want to shop, check out Great Lakes Crossing outlets in Auburn Hills, MI or Somerset Mall in Troy, MI.

If you are still not finding the lodging, shopping, or eats you need in A2, then extend your search to Dexter, Brighton, Saline, Milan, Ypsilanti or Canton, MI. You’ll still be within a half hour drive to The University of Michigan when you visit.

Getting Ready for College? Read these…

• College packing list for guys
• Things to do before college

Visiting Other Schools? Find out how to plan a visit to…

• Stanford University
• University of Wisconsin Madison
• Case Western Reserve University
• University of Colorado Boulder

Ann Arbor native and Wolverines fan, Rachel is the coffee lover behind Roasted Beanz.com. A caffeinated lifestyle blog showcasing fun, food, and family in the Midwest. She has been seen on Fox 2, WXYZ-TV Channel 7, and WNEM Channel 5 news as a lifestyle expert. And now shares her skills as a consultant for others looking to work within the freelance and gig economy. Connect with her today on social media by following @roastedbeanz on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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Visit us on campus

We’re excited to welcome you to campus for in-person tours. Come see us and find out what the University of Michigan and the College of Engineering have to offer.

Hi, and welcome to the University of Michigan’s  College of Engineering. I’m Raul and I’ll be your tour leader today. I hope you’ll enjoy  the video we’ve created especially for you.  

Right now what we’re looking at is the Duderstadt  Center. The Duderstadt library is one of our more popular libraries here on North Campus  and is fondly referred to as The Dude.

It is open 24/7 throughout the year, which  means whether you like studying at 2 p.m. or 2 a.m., The Dude can be a great place for you.

There are so many more things to do than  just study in our libraries. For example, our Fabrication Studio is available where you’ll  be able to work on class and personal projects, and you’ll be able to use different  laser cutters, 3D printers and tools.  

We are now at the Bob and Betty Bester  Building. Right now our CS faculty and students in cyber security are working  to make our election systems more secure.  

This building is an excellent example of  demonstrating the progression of engineering.

At our entrance, we have a  very small piece of the ENIAC, one of the first digital computers ever  built. On the other side, we have a completely programmable staircase that  our students can explore and hack into.  

You can see art sculptures all over North Campus  and we love to showcase our students creativity and projects. This is believed to be the world’s  largest stationary, hand-solvable Rubik’s cube. 

It was imagined, designed  and built by two teams of engineering undergraduate students  over the course of three years.

Here are some examples of our classrooms.  We try to create a dynamic and interactive learning environment. Most of our classes are  recorded making it extremely easy for our students to review and study. You’ll be raising intriguing  questions in lecture and following discussions  with professors that have the potential to  transform into your own research projects.

What we’re looking at right now is the structures  lab. It’s one of our testing facilities.  

Our engineers use a combination  of the strong wall, floor, hydraulic pumping mechanisms and computerized  models to simulate real world conditions inside.

We have strong connections with industry here at  Michigan and the FXB atrium is a shining example.  

In 1965, NASA sent Gemini 4 into space which had  the first all-Michigan crew. One of our alumni was the first American to perform a spacewalk. A  few years later as part of the Apollo 15 mission an all-Michigan crew was the fourth team to land  on the moon. Next time you’re here on campus you’ll have a chance to see a small piece of  outer space in the form of our very own moon rock.

Right around the corner from the FXB we have  M-air, a 10,000 square foot, four-story netted scientific facility that enables the study of  autonomy and collaborative robotics in the wild, with emphasis on dealing with the  full range of Michigan weather.

This is the Ford Robotics Building. It’s the  home of Michigan Robotics. The 140,000 square  foot complex will house classrooms, offices, a  startup-style open collaboration area and tailored lab space for a variety of robotic technologies.  The building will include a three-story fly zone for autonomous aerial vehicles, an outdoor  obstacle course for self-driving cars and  

dedicated space for rehabilitation and mobility  robots, such as prosthetics and exoskeletons.

And if that wasn’t enough for you, just down the  road we have Mcity, our own advanced mobility research center! Michigan created Mcity to realize  the potential for emerging mobility technologies.  

Our partners in industry, government  and academia are Mcity’s foundation and the reason it has become a leader  in connected and autonomous vehicles.

This is the Wilson Student Team Project  Center. It empowers student teams by providing a facility in which they  can experience hands-on development and fabrication. It allows members to use  a practical application of engineering.  

The Wilson Center provides groups with a unique  opportunity to interact with one another, share ideas and showcase their projects — like our Solar  Car team, M-Fly, Baja Racing and so many more.

We are now inside the Lurie  Nanofabrication Facility, where our researchers work on the  nanometer scale. If you’re wondering, one nanometer is about the length that your fingernails will grow in one second. The LNF is here to provide our faculty and students  access to advanced nanofabrication equipment.

The last thing I wanted to show you is our  electrical engineering and computer science building. Here we are creating the technology  that puts the smart into smart electronics and constantly pushes the boundaries of  research. One of our more recent projects showcases this very principle. This  is Michigan Micro Mote — M3 for short.  

M3 is the world’s smallest computer and has opened  the door to a completely new class of computing.

Thank you so much for watching! Whether you’re exploring the cutting edge  of research, solving giant Rubik’s cubes or just studying at The Dude, this is just  a small sample of what we have to offer.  

We hope to see you on campus soon!

05:23Go Blue!

Prospective undergraduate info session

You can learn more about our  campus , programs, and facilities from the comfort of your own home. Check out the video above for a quick overview of our undergraduate experience.

Admission questions? We’re here to help

Our admissions team is here and ready to help. You can schedule a virtual advising appointment for some one-on-one assistance or join a Zoom panel Q&A discussion.

Prospective graduate student department visits

Our departments invite selected prospective graduate students for an in-depth visit to campus to meet with faculty in their area of interest each February or March. These exclusive weekend visits give you a realistic perspective on what your graduate student career at Michigan will look like.

Many students say this experience was key in their eventual choice to study at Michigan. While you’re here you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Tour departments
• Talk with faculty
• Meet current graduate students
• Talk to peers from across the country
• Explore Ann Arbor

Travel & lodging: we have it covered

Once you have been invited and register online, you will receive all necessary travel information immediately after you submit your RSVP. This includes:

• Travel agency for booking your free flight
• Hotel information
• Airport-to-campus shuttle service information

What to bring

• The weather in Michigan in March can vary widely. Check the forecast and bring hats, gloves, a heavy coat and boots if necessary.
• Casual clothes are appropriate for all visit activities, unless you’re otherwise notified by your department.
• Wear comfortable shoes.

Engineering department visit tentative schedule

• 3-7 pm : Arrival, registration (light snacks) and welcome social – DoubleTree by Hilton-Ann Arbor North
• Evening : Individual department dinner and activities determined by department
• 6:30-8:30 am : Breakfast – DoubleTree by Hilton-Ann Arbor North
• Morning/Afternoon: Department events (faculty appointments, lab tours, meet with current graduate students, etc.) – U-M North Campus
• Evening: Individual department dinner and activities determined by department
• 9:30-11:00 am: Farewell breakfast
• Noon-Onward: Activities for select departments
• 12:00 pm-Onward: Depart for Detroit-Metro Airport

NOTE: A detailed schedule for the entire weekend will be emailed to you prior to your visit.

Buildings and labs

North campus is home to world-class laboratories and facilities. We’ve got a printable map (PDF) for you and an interactive map of the Ann Arbor campus . We also have a map for getting around Ann Arbor.

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Ranked #4 by U.S. News & World Report, the Michigan Ross BBA Program is one of the best undergraduate business program in the world. Explore what makes our inclusive community of learners so unique.

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• Master of Accounting
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At Michigan Ross, you gain more than just a first-class business education. Our collaborative, supportive, inclusive community enriches your experience, and sets you up with a lifetime network of friends across the globe.

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The work of Michigan Ross faculty influences the world’s largest companies and global economies. Every day we’re creating real-world solutions for the most pressing challenges in our world. 

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• Commencement
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• Full-Time MBA: Ross Women’s Weekend and UpClose Diversity Weekend

Follow a monthly poll co-created by Financial Times and Michigan Ross for insights on how American voters perceive key financial and economic issues in the lead-up to the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

• About Michigan Ross
• Mission & Values
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• Ross Experiences in Action-Based Learning: REAL
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• Ross Around the World
• About Sharon F. Matusik
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• 100 Years of Michigan Ross
• Visit Ann Arbor
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Discover more about the history, people, milestones, and contributions that have shaped Michigan Ross.

• Plan of Action
• Thought Leadership
• Women at Ross
• Military & Veterans
• International Students
• Students of Color

The Michigan Ross tour has been broken out by chapters.    Start at the beginning or choose what interests you.

 Chapter 1

Welcome to Michigan Ross.

Michigan Ross is located on the University of Michigan’s central campus, right in the middle of Ann Arbor. On this tour, we’ll show you what our campus has to offer: the distinctive architecture, places to study, where to grab a coffee or a bite to eat, and more.

 Chapter 2

The Davidson Winter Garden

As you enter the building, you are welcomed into the large, open atrium. This is the Winter Garden, the heart of Michigan Ross and where students come to study and work on group projects.

 Chapter 3

Seigle Cafe & Starbucks

The Winter Garden is home to Seigle Cafe, a great place to grab lunch or a snack in between classes. If you are looking for a caffeine pick-me-up, Michigan Ross’ own Starbucks is located in the Winter Garden and is a great place to get a coffee throughout the day.

 Chapter 4

The Michigan Ross campus has a variety of classroom types, ranging from fixed, multi-level U-shaped classrooms to more modular setups that can accommodate every type of learning. Integrated technology in all classrooms includes projection screens or large embedded monitors, interactive touch screen monitors, and outlets for student laptops. 

 Chapter 5

Study Rooms

There are many study rooms around the Michigan Ross campus that are available to students for group projects, meetings, and interviews. They are also great for brainstorming on the whiteboards and using the monitors for shared presentations and video calls. 

 Chapter 6

Tozzi Electronic Business and Finance Center Center

The Tozzi Center at Michigan Ross gives you the experience of a working and first-in-class electronic trading floor, with the same software that is used on Wall Street. 

 Chapter 7

Och Fitness Center

Michigan Ross also strives to support students’ health and fitness goals with several resources and spaces, including the Och Fitness Center. The Center includes a variety of cardio and strength-training equipment, and members can enjoy cross-training, circuit training, and yoga classes.

 Chapter 8

Robertson Auditorium

The state-of-the-art Robertson Auditorium seats 500 and has hosted some major speakers, ranging from visiting business executives to world leaders. Robertson is also the location of business competitions and large, student-led conferences.

 Chapter 9

Alessi Courtyard

Located in the center of the Michigan Ross campus is the Alessi Courtyard, a great place to relax outside between classes or study under the shade of the 200-year-old oak tree. The courtyard also connects buildings that are part of the Ross campus. 

 Chapter 10

Additional Parts of Ross Campus

Sam Wyly Hall is the main hub for Executive Education and the Executive Learning and Conference Center. Kresge Hall houses the admission offices, academic advisors, the Kresge Library, and many other administrative offices. Blau Hall houses classrooms, study spaces, the Career Development Office, and the +Impact Studio, which is an innovative space for elective classes and club and community events. On the first floor of Blau Hall is Seven 10 East, a cafe that serves pastries, sandwiches, and Michigan Ross’ own blend of Zingerman’s coffee.

Driving Tour: 10-Day Summer Road Trip Across Michigan’s Lower Peninsula

It’s easy to skip around countries in Europe. In Scotland, for example, driving a couple hours or less will get you from one legendary city or village to another – each with its own history, attractions, and culture to explore. You can see a couple spots in one day and stay in a new place every night. This nomadic approach to traveling a single country can be applied to nomadically traveling through the state of Michigan.

This Summer Road Trip is intended to be spread out over the course of 10 days, so that you have enough time to see and do at each stop on the itinerary.  You won’t see everything Michigan has to offer, even over all that time. After all, you also want to enjoy yourself and soak in the places you’re visiting. The distance between most towns is two hours or less, an easy jaunt to make each day. There are a couple days with more driving hours.

And if you have an RV, you don’t need to worry about finding a hotel. Your home is already with you, giving you ultimate flexibility. You can choose to dry camp, stay at a state park, or stay at a private campground – or all three – along the way.

Mileage : 885 miles

Driving Time: 15 hours, 26 minutes (Keep in mind that summer is high construction season in this state, so expect delays.)

Day #1: Tecumseh is where you’ll begin your road trip journey. It’s a small town that makes every “Best Small Town” list. A town with a relaxed vibe, Tecumseh is home to Pentamere Winery, which is open for wine tasting, as well as The Pit. Unlike how it sounds, The Pit is a beautiful waterside park with swimming, fishing, and plenty of space to picnic or relax in a beach chair.  If you’re feeling ambitious, then drive 45 minutes north to big town Ann Arbor to take in the downtown, walk the campus of the historic University of Michigan (make sure to visit the Law Quad), and experience the nightlife, as this college town is full of Michigan craft beer. If eating out, visit the Gandy Dancer, a favorite for generations of students and their families over the years.

Day #2: You’ll continue your journey east toward the bustling Motor City, Detroit. Although the downtown area with its historic buildings and museums are well-worth a visit, we’re aiming for more natural space. Belle Isle is an island gem located on the Detroit River. It’s easy to spend a whole day here, walking the riverfront, visiting the conservancy and nature center, making a wish at the James Scott Memorial Fountain, and watching the boat traffic.

Day #3 : In the morning, set out for an easy 90-minute drive to Bavarian Frankenmuth . You’ll feel like you’ve wandered into Bavaria itself, what with its charming architecture, clock and chocolate shops, and cheerful hospitality. Walk the Bavarian Inn Holz Covered Bridge (you can drive through, but this may not be possible if you have a tall RV), visit the Chocolate Haus, and stroll through the River Place Shops. There are also a couple museums, the Frankenmuth History Museum and the Michigan Heroes  Museum, which honors military personnel from the state of Michigan. Not far away is Bronners, where it’s Christmas every day of the year. The Silent Night Chapel outside is a favorite spot, but you need to look around inside to get the full experience. Be warned, you will leave with something.

Day #4: Situated on the shores of Lake Huron, Tawas City within the Tawas Bay Area is the perfect spot to pull off the road, take in the exquisite scenery, and go for a dip. This coastal community has a walkable pier, an iconic lighthouse within the state park, and is within easy distance of the hiking trails around Lumberman’s Monument. You can relax here today and bask in the beauty of the Sunrise Side. At night, since the northeast portion of the state is less congested, you will be able to take in the expansive night sky with little distraction or interruption.

Day #5: But speaking of the night sky, this day will take you to the International Dark Sky Park . But first, travel two-and-a-half hours to Mackinac City . Although a 15-minute voyage to beautiful Mackinac Island, you won’t want to leave the quaint island. So, best to stay on land for the day. You can walk around the shops in Mackinac City, eat at the park that gives you the best view of the Mackinac Bridge, and visit Fort Michilimackinac. Then, you will travel 15 minutes west to reach the International Dark Sky Park. The park is full of hiking trails and incredible views, so it’s well worth visiting in the daytime. If you can, stay until nightfall or return at night to take in the stars.

Day #6: An easy 45 minutes away is the coastal town of Harbor Springs . Smaller than the neighboring towns of Petoskey and Charlevoix – which you will travel through on the way to your next destination and are worth exploring – Harbor Springs is a good place to slow down. For a scenic drive, take M-119 through the Tunnel of Trees as you head south to this charming town. There are beaches, wineries, and the Thorne Swift Nature Preserve, which has easy trails. The downtown is also worth meandering through, complete with galleries and restaurants.

Day #7: This is your longest travel day, three hours and fifteen minutes. You’ll bypass the counties containing Traverse City, the Leelanau Peninsula, and Sleeping Bear Dunes (gasp!), as you make your way south and west to Ludington . This stunning Lake Michigan town is  a favorite for tourists in the summer, as is much of the Lake Michigan coastline.  You’ll find a vacationer’s paradise. Beaches are located on Lake Michigan as well as the inland lake, Hamlin Lake. There are also two historic lighthouses, the North Breakwater Light and the Big Sable Point Lighthouse within the state park. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, charter a fishing boat for Lake Michigan; or, cast your line in Hamlin Lake for some delicious panfish. For a bit of history, visit Historic White Pine Village and step back in time, with special events held throughout the summer. Stop in a the Jam Farm for homemade jams, jellies, and marmalades for your camping breakfast before you find a spot to camp for the night.

Day #8: You will continue south along the coastline, which has been a favorite destination for generations. Drive 90 minutes to your next stop: Holland .  Home of Tulip Time, this town is reminiscent of a Dutch Village, both in appearance and hospitality. Windmill Island is definitely worth a visit – wooden shoes, anyone? – and visit the most photographed lighthouse in the state, Big Red. The shops that line downtown are unique, and the streets are meticulously kept. After you spend some time there, travel just another hour to South Haven, which has two of the beaches in the state. Frankly, plan to spend the whole afternoon there and watch the sun go down.

Day #9: This day will take you to two picturesque Michigan towns, St. Joseph and New Buffalo. You’ll reach St. Joseph first. There, visit Silver Beach County Park and take a ride on the carousel, walk along the sandy shoreline, and walk the pier out to the pair of lights. The Whirlpool Compass Fountain is an enchanting display, and if you have kids, they will enjoy cooling off in the spray. In New Buffalo , you’ll also find a beautiful beach, but turn your sights inland to Galien River County Park, a mix of upland and wetland habitats that includes a canopy walkway, platforms, and overlooks. It’s a great way to walk off any chocolate you may have picked up from a St. Joseph chocolate shop. Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the Galien River. Finish off the day by picking up some local wine and drinking it back at the campsite.

Day #10: Finish your summer driving tour in another small town: Colon. Flanked by Long Lake and Palmer Lake, Colon is affectionally known as “Magical Capital of the World” because it’s home to the Abbott Magic Company (the largest magic shop in the world), has weekly magic performances, and the MagiCelibration Magic Festival. The high school even gets into the spirit, mascot is a white rabbit with a black top hat. Several magicians, 28 in fact, have made Colon their final resting place, which means a trip to the cemetery might be worth adding to the itinerary.

We wish we could have included every single town and attraction in this list. Michigan’s Lower Peninsula is full of treasures, scenic views, history, and kind people. Use our itinerary as a starting point, but feel free to expand and explore. After all, that’s why we go on road trips anyway, to see and experience new places and things. Have a great summer!

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UMich hosts Noon at Night cafe 

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Noon at Night , a global solidarity network that aims to connect cultures through food, led culinary and campus tours April 12 and 13 which highlighted historical and modern University of Michigan student movements. The tours highlighted locations of previous student organizing and resistance and ended at Palmer Commons, where attendees ordered food created from archived recipes that correspond with movements shared on the tour. In addition to the tours, Noon at Night also hosted a cafe and “teach-in” session during both evenings which focused on current student movements on campus.

Noon at Night has three components: an educational and transgressive classroom and network; an archive of global student movement work and a cafe that connects sociopolitical solidarity across differences. Noon at Night is sponsored by the U-M Arts Initiative and is the result of a year-long project with event organizer Dawn Weleski , a multi-disciplinary artist who is currently an artist-in-residence at U-M Student Life .

In an interview with The Michigan Daily, Weleski said the food served at the cafe reflects that served during the social movements discussed in the tours, highlighting the anonymous quotes from movement leaders on the packaging.

“We looked at a number of archives at University of Michigan libraries and interviewed current and past student movement workers who are alums,” Weleski said. “We asked them, ‘What advice would you offer your young organizer and what is the legacy of your work?’ and those quotes were then transcribed and offered on … food (boxes).” 

LSA sophomore Lindsey Smith, a student in ENVIRON 391: Sustainability and the Campus, said the cafe provided a space for community interaction on campus.

“One of the main goals of the cafe is to bring people together,” Smith said. “In our business plan, we highlighted possible events that can be held in the cafe, such as cooking classes, making new friends and learning new skills. It’s really not just going to be a cafe but a meeting place to meet new people.” 

Rackham student Marsalis Jolley, Noon at Night tour guide, said the tours are meant to help students understand that social movements are fundamental to the University’s decision making. 

“I’m hoping students learn about social movements and see how they played a part in our foundation as a University,” Jolley said. “The founding of Trotter (Multicultural Center) and some of the Black study programs were not given to the students without students actually fighting or actually going out there and demanding that they have the same representatives.” 

Rackham student Alyssa Murphy, who took a Noon at Night tour, said the experience was informative and she hopes the history she learned about will be commemorated.

“I thought the tour was really well put together,” Murphy said. “I had no idea about the history of most of these places or spaces. … I thought the most impactful moments included the effects of protesting on this University in the past and relating it to protests in the present.”

The cafe featured a pay-what-you-can sliding scale pricing system and food items such as coffee, tea and breakfast items in the morning. In the afternoon, the cafe’s menu expanded to include more non-breakfast options that were popular during student movements. 

LSA senior Yumna Dagher, an artist working with Noon at Night, said she became involved in the organization because of her love for art and food.

“I got involved through my boss who invited the artist, Dawn Weleski, to one of our meetings,” Dagher said. “Upon hearing about Dawn’s work, I was really engaged because it combines so many things that are right up my alley: art, food and using food as a conduit for meeting making and connection.”

Dagher said Noon at Night hopes to have a long-term impact on the U-M community. 

“Noon at Night is pitched as a transgressive classroom,” Dagher said. “We are thinking really forward with bringing the program outward with creating an engaging community. In the long term, we want to bring and build transnational solidarity between different activists striving to build resiliency within their own communities.” 

Rackham student Aditi Khandare said the Noon at Night experience taught her the importance of protests on college campuses specifically. 

“I was really excited about this because I get to learn about history and all the protests that have been happening,” Khandare said. “I feel like universities are a hub of all the people who are open-minded and are still the future of the country. So being open about all the nonconservative or nonconventional things could be a way for society to move on; a lot of these protests that have changed the world started in universities.” 

Weleski said they felt amazed by U-M students’ persistent commitment to protest over the course of the University’s history. 

“I’ve taught at a couple of universities, I’ve been an artist in residence in lots of different locations around the world,” Weleski said. “The dedication to organizing the resilience of the students and the energy that they bring to the work that they’re doing, and the fidelity to the practice of hope that they are enacting day after day is pretty unprecedented for me to see. I only hope that we can do justice to this history and continued growth.” 

Daily Staff Reporters Audrey Shabelski and Maddyn Shapiro can be reached at [email protected] and [email protected] .  

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Best Driving Vacations 2024: Take a Battlefield Tour of Pennsylvania and Maryland

Today we continue on our journey highlighting four of the best driving destinations from central Ohio.

With a focus on the creme de la creme — vital, accessible and unforgettable voyages that every central Ohio resident should put on his or her bucket list — we offer suggestions that will appeal to most everyone.

From a circle tour of “our Great Lake” to the architectural wonders of a modernist sister city three hours away, these four extraordinary adventures are wonderful ways to widen your horizons in 2024.

More: Best Driving Vacations 2024: Explore the Northern Shore of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Today's installment is Part 2 of 4 destination packages from Columbus Monthly's annual travel guide. We hope you enjoy.

Traveling to Gettysburg and Antietam

Not every traveler is a history buff. But a visit to Gettysburg, site of one of the most iconic and bloody battles of the Civil War, should probably be on every American’s bucket list. 

From Columbus, the drive takes a bit more than six hours. And a two- or three-day visit to the Pennsylvania landmark can easily include several other noteworthy sites along the way, including another important Civil War battlefield, the fort where George Washington suffered his most humiliating defeat and the memorial where the first Americans to fight back during 9/11 are commemorated. 

In addition to being a major historic site, Gettysburg is also a lovely small town adept at catering to the nearly 1 million visitors who arrive each year. Even visitors who never set foot in the Gettysburg National Military Park would find plenty to do. Town streets are packed with shopping, dining, breweries and wineries, hotels and inns, galleries and museums. But the battlefield should definitely be on the to-do list. 

More than 165,000 Union and Confederate soldiers clashed from July 1-3, 1863. The largest battle ever fought on this continent resulted in more than 51,000 casualties — and turned the tide of the war in favor of the Union. The battlefield Museum and Visitors Center includes 12 separate galleries, many interactive exhibits and thousands of artifacts on display. Visitors can also experience the Gettysburg Cyclorama, a painting in-the-round created in the 1880s that tells the story of the battle and is, itself, a magnificent piece of history. 

Plenty can also be discovered on a self-guided auto tour. The 6,000-acre battlefield is crossed by several small roads with plenty of places to pull off and explore the many monuments and markers that were erected in the decades after the battle. 

Bus tours are available from the visitor center. But the best way to tour the battlefield may be with a licensed guide in your own vehicle. Guides are happy to customize tours based on visitors’ interests and knowledge. 

Although the three-day Battle of Gettysburg was the bloodiest battle of the Civil War, Antietam, near the village of Sharpsburg, Maryland, was the site of the war’s bloodiest single day — and the bloodiest day in American history, with some 23,000 casualties. Antietam National Battlefield is just an hour’s drive from Gettysburg, making it a logical stop for history-lovers passing through, or an easy daytrip for travelers extending their stay in the Pennsylvania town. 

Like Gettysburg, Antietam is dotted with monuments honoring the military units and men who served there. One of the most curious is a Brobdingnagian marker commemorating the service of a young commissary sergeant who went on to become President William McKinley. The monument celebrates McKinley’s efforts at bringing coffee and hot food to Union troops on the front lines. 

No, really. 

But if I were on the front, tired and hungry, I would certainly have welcomed and appreciated Sgt. Billy’s offerings. (Come to think of it, this might actually be the most noble act a future president has ever performed.) 

Fort Necessity National Battlefield

Southwestern Pennsylvania also hosts two other important historic sites along the route from central Ohio. Fort Necessity National Battlefield near Farmington, Pennsylvania, is a small historic site featuring a museum and the recreated fort where George Washington, as a very young lieutenant colonel, led a unit of British colonial troops to a humiliating defeat at the hands of the French in 1754. Though discouraged, Washington, of course, persevered, having much better luck decades later in the American Revolution. 

Few Americans who remember Sept. 11, 2001, can visit the Flight 93 National Memorial near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and not get a bit emotional. The memorial tells the story of the terrorist attacks on the United States that day and of the passengers on United Flight 93 who gave their lives fighting back against their hijackers, preventing their plane from being used as a weapon against another prominent target, possibly the U.S. Capitol. 

The memorial marks the site where the plane hit the ground, killing all aboard. In addition to a museum, the site features several trails, including the Trail of Remembrance along the final flight path. Also at the memorial is the Tower of Voices, a 93-foot-tall structure containing 40 large wind chimes, each tuned to a separate and distinct tone of its own — a haunting and fitting way to remember the 40 passengers and crew of Flight 93 and a bit of history many of us lived through ourselves. 

Where to Stay When Visiting Gettysburg

Gettysburg offers a wide variety of lodging options. The Gettysburg Hotel (est. 1797) is a historic property at the heart of downtown with rates from $118 per night. For a cozier stay, consider the Brafferton Inn , with rooms beginning around $110 per night, or Battlefield Bed and Breakfast in a restored 1810 farmhouse, with rooms beginning around $210 per night. hotelgettysburg.com , brafferton.com , gettysburgbattlefield.com   

This story is from the Best Driving Vacations package in the February 2024 issue of Columbus Monthly. 

This article originally appeared on Columbus Monthly: Best Driving Vacations 2024: Take a Battlefield Tour of Pennsylvania and Maryland

Campus Tours for Admitted First-year Students

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions is holding campus walking tours through Dec. 3.

Registration is required, and each guest will need to complete a ResponsiBLUE screening the morning of the designated tour. Masks are also required as the tour enters university buildings. The tour is mainly outdoors, so dress accordingly.

Additional tours will resume in January 2022 once our student tour guides are back on campus.

Congratulations on your admission to U-M!

Join us for a 75-minute walking tour of our Central Campus neighborhood, led by one of our current U-M student tour guides. Please note that the majority of this tour will take place outside, so we strongly encourage you to check the local weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Choose a date from the calendar to register. Due to strict tour capacities, registration is required and no walk-ins will be accommodated.

‼️Admitted student tours begin in February.

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A Graffiti Tour of Italia!

This semester I am lucky enough to be studying abroad in Italy, and as much as I miss the bad boys of UMMA, I am having the time of my life! Italy is filled to the brim with art of all different sorts. Some art is displayed in museums or art shops, in beautiful cathedrals, or restaurants, or in airbnbs. Some art sits in the back rooms of small businesses, waiting to be bought, or on the streets where artists paint monuments and sell their goods. More art still adorns the walls of famous museums, or sits in the back of them, waiting for a curator to deem them the perfect fit for the next renowned exhibit.

All of these types of art around Italy have captivated me, but one that has constantly called for my attention is the art that is, shall we say, unsanctioned. Italy is covered in graffiti, in every place you can imagine. From train station walls to the sides of historical ruins, the graffiti game in Italy is next level. And so with that in mind, I am bringing you a graffiti tour of Italy.

The town where my study abroad institution is located is the lovely Sorrento, a small cliffside town across from Naples. Moderately less touristy than the more well-known cities, Sorrento is home to people of all ages and experiences, and the graffiti reflects that.

The first work that struck me is this column, located on my walk to the town square from school. I like this wall because you can see that it is layer upon layer of graffiti, where someone attempted to cover it right back up. Personally, I like to think that this wall is a reflection of generations of artists leaving their mark on the walls.

The wall that features this particular angry(?) face is in an alley I’ve taken to calling Cat Alley because if you look up as you walk through, there are always cats lying on the roofs. This work of graffiti interested me because it incorporates some aspects of the wall to create eyes, but it also seems to be drawn in crayon or pastel.

Another common place in Italian graffiti is handmade stickers that cover lampposts, electrical boxes, and of course just regular walls. This rocket and star are stuck to a little door on a wall near the town square, and honestly, I just thought it was cute.

This woman’s portrait is spray painted on the side of the Sorrento train station. I don’t know what the words next to her say, it appears to be an unrelated tag but the art style of the woman reminds me of the art of Marjane Satrapi, author of Persepolis.

From the train station, it’s about an hour-long ride to Naples, with lots of beautiful views of Mt. Vesuvius, and small Italian towns that line the bay of Naples. Incidentally, Naples is our next stop on this grand graffiti tour. As a largely metropolitan area, Naples is absolutely coated with graffiti, to the point where it distracts from anything else.

The train stations in Naples are more or less museums of graffiti, and writing on the walls. I’m not sure if writing in Sharpie counts as graffiti, but I am pretty sure I am not the authority on the matter. Though half of the writing on the walls of Naples is profanities, it seems the other half is poetry that is well worth sharing.

This train station wall says “e ora dove vai se la notte, si ferma e non hai mai sono” which translates to “now where will you go if the night stops and you never sleep.” This quote is a lyric from the song vibe for being stranded in a train station late at night, which happens more than you would think.

This writing, which is actually in German, provided some storytelling of train goers who once visited Naples, but now have gone on their way to Baden-Württemberg. It translates directly to “Nice here, but they were already in Baden-Württemberg.” I would agree, Naples is nice. I can’t personally speak to Baden-Württemberg.

One of my absolute favorites is located on a bridge above a train station, saying “nei tuoi occhi ho visto girasoli di van gogh – noehy 16/09/23” which translates to “in your eyes I saw van Gogh’s sunflowers – noehy 09/16/23” which is just beautiful. As it turns out, this quote is also lyrics, from a song called Girasoli , which nowadays I listen to quite a lot.

Less on the side of poetry, this wall says “Quando la vita ti inganna, fumati una canna” which directly translates to “When life deceives you, smoke a joint.” This one had me chuckling, especially because of the cotton candy colors of the words. Below it, very faded is “Viva La Zaza,” which needs no translation. Despite marijuana being illegal in Italy, Naples seems to be very 420-friendly.

Below are the beloved lyrics to the song Sure Thing: “If you be the cash, I’ll be the rubberband” which also made me smile. Italians love American pop music, probably more than Americans do. In asking one of my advisors at my school for Italian music recommendations, he admitted to mostly listening to Lady Gaga and Dua Lipa, and couldn’t advise me on the matter.

A favorite work of my friends and mine is this gorgeous illustration by Svaldo Guappo. We don’t know who Svaldo Guappo is, per se, but we’re big fans.

And in a different part of the station lives Silvestro. He and Svaldo live far away from each other, but I like to imagine they’re friends.

However as is often the case with art, not all of the work is lighthearted. Much of the work in this train station contains social commentary and acts of rebellion against a system of oppression. This artwork should really speak for itself, but as a woman who (usually) lives in post roe v. wade America, an artwork that speaks to the ownership of one’s own body spoke to me. Italy boasts a very misogynistic and patriarchal culture, where the harassment of women is more than normal, and this graffiti is a response to that in the form of art.

On a similar note, this wall of posters in Naples is very much a shrine to women and their rights. Despite being behind a car in a slightly sketchy alley, I stood and looked at it for a long time, appreciating the art, commentary, and diversity represented.On the topic of social commentary, let’s pop over to Rome! Rome is my favorite city I’ve visited so far, and I think I’ll forever dream of living there. The graffiti was, naturally, very interesting as well.

This stenciled work reads “l’8 lotto contro il cis-etero patriarcato” translating to “on the 8th I fight against the cis-hetero patriarchy.” In researching this piece, I came across the website that this graffiti is drawn from. It is a group of feminists advocating for women’s rights, and fighting against femicide and violence against women. Here is a link to the website .

This work reads “insieme siamo partite. insieme torneremo insieme. non una di meno.” it translates to “together we left. together we will return. Not one less.” and below it is a symbol representing gender nonconformity. In researching this piece of graffiti, it brought me to a blog with a written manifesto, calling for gender equality, bodily autonomy, and objecting to the presence of carabinieri (a militarized portion of the Italian police force.) Check out their website here . While not referenced on their website (at least, I don’t think, my Italian isn’t great), I suspect that this group is connected to/inspired by the fourth wave Latina feminist movement Ni Una Menos. Also, this wall proclaims “In the face of repression, solidarity!” The combination of the gorgeous arching windows with the message of rebellion below makes this building a true work of art.

And now, some poetry! This particular writing says “Ma in attendere e gioia piu compta – E. Montale” translating to “but in waiting there is greater joy.” I say poetry here because this writing is a quote from Eugenio Montale, an Italian poet and prose writer. On this same wall you can see sheet music, a Charles Dickens quote (“it was the best of times, it was the worst of times…”) as well as “non ragioniam di lor ma guarda passa” which is a line from Dante’s Divine Comedy .

On the same wall, to the right is written “Puoi leggere, leggere, leggere, che è la cosa più bella che si possa fare in gioventù: e piano piano ti sentirai arricchire dentro, sentirai formarsi dentro di te quell’esperienza speciale che è la cultura.” This translates to “ You can read, read, read, which is the most beautiful thing you can do in your youth: and little by little you will feel enriched inside, you will feel that special experience that is culture forming within you.” and if it sounds familiar, that is because it’s the work of Italian poet Pier Paolo Pasolini.

Yet another quote on this same wall is “there is no surer foundation for a beautiful friendship than a mutual taste in literature,” from P.G. Wodehouse.

The final quote on this wall is perhaps the most interesting to me. It is “vojo viziamme co’ogni tuo sguardo me scoppinercore come ‘n petardo” translating to “I want you to spoil me with your every look, my heart will explode like a firecracker.” While the quote is beautiful, I am more interested in the signature here – Ignis ErFoco . You can find Ignis’ writing all over the walls of Rome and other Italian cities. It’s always the same handwriting, marker, and font. Ignis has an Instagram too, he is a roman poet. If this wall of poetry compels you, I recommend you check him out. I’m well on my way to becoming a fan.

Now, you’ll have to forgive my tangent, I’m an English major as well as Arts & Ideas, so this wall was a perfect intersection of my interests. I’m calling it the Poet’s Wall, and I would quite like to go back and see if there’s been any additions. But alas! Back to the graffiti.

This piece of graffiti stopped me in my tracks. The textures, colors, and overall surreality of it are captivating. I looked into the artist (as he tagged his work, his name is Dax Norman and I highly encourage you to check out his Instagram.) and it appears that this image is part of a larger project of creating an endless animation through graffiti he makes. This work is titled The Smoking Hand , and it’s incredibly beautiful. (obligatory message: smoking kills kids). Here is a link to his Tumblr where you can see the animated version.

Alright. It seems as though this blog post has gotten a bit long. I have probably a hundred more photos of interesting graffiti, but these were the highlights. So without further ado, I will leave you with my favorite graffiti in my local train station. This is the bubening. I don’t know what it means, but I know it’s important.

And that’s all for now! Thanks so much for reading.

Ciao! – Elena, from Italy

Images of Graffiti Mentioned in this Blog Post

All photos by Elena Mills

More from UMMA

Technical skills and personal growth propel student's experience

Now, equipped with a variety of internships, co-curricular activities and leadership roles, the senior aerospace engineering student is excited to continue his involvement on campus while exploring the endless possibilities of a career in aerospace engineering.

“I thought I was just coming here to be a student and to learn in academics, but I unexpectedly learned that coming here was all about personal growth and leadership,” explains Roberts.

One of the organizations Roberts is involved in is the Campus Activities Board (CAB), one the largest student organizations on campus. Soon after becoming a member in 2021, Roberts became the special events coordinator and is now serving as president, where he oversees all events, provides direction to his team, and meets with various staff and faculty to talk about University goals.

“It takes a lot of time, but the friendships and family I have made through it makes it worth it,” says Roberts. “I believe that everyone should be a part of CAB and join our family.”

Because of his role as president for CAB, Roberts is also involved in the Western Student Association (WSA) and serves as a representative on the Student Assessment Fee (SAF) Council. Through both of these organizations, Roberts advocates for University funding accordingly.

“We decide how to best utilize student money received through the SAF and how to best give it back to the students,” explains Roberts. “Through policy change, uplifting student voices, and providing feedback, WSA has accomplished many goals.”

Roberts’ student advocacy doesn’t stop there. He is also in his third year as a Fall Welcome ambassador and completed his first year as ambassador captain, helping new Western students connect with peers, WMU's campus, staff and resources all aimed at helping incoming students achieve success.

“I joined because I wanted to not only learn more about the University coming out of COVID-19 but wanted to meet new people,” says Roberts. “I’ve really enjoyed building those connections, being a mentor and guiding (students) through their University career.”

In addition to the vast opportunities for student involvement on campus, Roberts also appreciates the emphasis WMU puts on diversity and inclusion and sustainability. With a younger brother with Down Syndrome, Roberts advocates for a world where everyone is included through his involvement in programs such as Best Buddies at Western Michigan University and Special Olympics USA. Roberts is also working on pushing a new sustainability initiative titled Sustainable Housing Equipment Shed, hoping to limit waste while providing students with affordable dorm and apartment essentials.

“Through talks with the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Division of Student Affairs, things are looking up for this initiative,” says Roberts. “The goal is to have more funding provided to the Office for Sustainability so that they can fund this initiative and provide leadership through a graduate assistant and add the initiative to the University’s strategic plan.”

Along with his passion for these co-curricular activities, Roberts invests a lot of time and creativity in his studies. One of his favorite memories is from Propulsion I with aerospace and mechanical engineering chair and professor, Dr. William Liou . Roberts and his group members decided to focus their final project on the propulsive force that engineers could put into a wrench to throw it long distances titled “Project Wrench Rage: Propelling Anger into Motion.”

“My group and I decided to take the project in a less conventional way. While most other groups did research-based projects, ours was experimental,” explains Roberts. “We made a lot of mistakes throughout it, but ultimately learned about what all things need to be considered, prepared for, and thought of whenever you run an experiment.

A part of Roberts’ journey in discovering what career to pursue was joining Western Aerospace Launch Initiate (WALI), one of 20 registered student organizations offered at the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Roberts joined the guidance, navigation and control (GNC) team within WALI where he learned about the details and challenges behind determining the location and orientation of a satellite. Roberts dedicates his experience in WALI to helping him land his first engineering internship at aerospace company Pratt and Whitney in East Hartford, Connecticut.

“I was able to get hands on experience with some of the GNC parts and run a test with the military grade GPS system,” explains Roberts. “My experience and time in WALI really helped me to secure that internship with Pratt and Whitney, as I had hands on experience outside of the classroom.”

At Pratt and Whitney, Roberts was a quality engineering intern where they track and predict non-conformance parts or processes and aim to make the engines safer and more reliable. Roberts was a part of the manufacturing process and explored a different kind of working environment. Through his internship at Pratt and Whitney, Roberts discovered a lot about quality engineering and even more about himself.

“I learned about manufacturing and product quality. I learned about the company as a whole. But most importantly to me, I learned the importance of self-reflection ," says Roberts.

Embracing this personal growth, Roberts is excited about the future of aerospace engineering and the opportunities and challenges that come along with it. Specifically, he wants to explore the development of next generation fighter jets and advanced propulsion systems.

“I’m very interested in next generation turbine jet engines, and I look forward to pursuing a career where I can be a part of those programs,” says Roberts. “Each design and program are going to come with its own challenges, and that’s something I want to take on and learn from.”

Learn more about WALI

Learn about developments in Roberts' career by following him on LinkedIn.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.

Wisconsin Badgers

Match Recap: Women's Tennis | April 12, 2024 | Meg Milliron

No. 25 Wisconsin drops to No. 2 Michigan

Strong momentum in singles not enough for badgers.

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Common questions, group tours.

We have several tour options to fit your group's needs.

Thank you so much for your interest in arranging a group tour to the University of Michigan!

Special group tours consist of a Central Campus walking tour led by one of our student tour guides. A virtual Zoom session led by your territory counselor may also be scheduled following your visit to our campus.

Special group tours will be offered Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m. ET. We will provide one tour guide per 15 students, and each group of 15 students must be accompanied by one or more chaperones. Please note that group tours are only available for students in grades 9-12.

Request Form

To schedule your group visit, please fill out our Group Tour Request Form . If anyone in your group requires special assistance or accommodations, please describe them in the form. For further inquiries about group visits, email [email protected] .

Groups such as Gear Up, TRIO, Upward Bound, or high school organizations of 15 or more students are welcome to visit U-M. We have several tour options that can be customized to fit your group's needs. Prospective first-year students and their families should register for one of our Campus Tours . Please refer to Admissions Office Closings when planning your visit.

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions is closed on the holidays listed below. No campus tours, information sessions, or special group tours will be available on these days:

• Memorial Day - Monday, May 27, 2024
• Independence Day - Thursday, July 4, 2024
• Labor Day - Monday, Sept. 2, 2024
• Thanksgiving - Thursday, Nov. 28-Friday, Nov. 29, 2024
• Christmas Day - Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024
• Winter Recess - Monday, Dec. 25, 2024-Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2024
• New Year's Day - Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2024

Prospective Student Information Session

Recommended for students in 10th-12th grades The Information Session covers the different programs of study that are available at U-M, how the admissions process works, and what qualities we are looking for in an applicant.

You Belong in College

Recommended for students in 8th-10th grades Students attending this session are exposed to a year-to-year plan to attend college. Freshman through senior year of high school is covered. In addition, the application process and financial aid process are discussed. Students will get tips for extracurriculars, essays, and high school course selection.

Central Campus Walking Tour

A current University of Michigan student escorts groups around Central Campus. The tour provides a look at academic facilities including a computer lab, a lecture hall, a classroom, a residence hall (when available) and libraries. Groups also see popular and historic locations like the Michigan Union, the Law Quad, and the Diag.

Maps, Directions & Parking

Our maps & directions page will help you find the best ways to plan a visit to campus and how to get around.