5 Myths Surrounding Big 10 Universities Debunked

1. They aren't academically rigorous.

This simply isn't true. As with all colleges and universities, it depends a lot upon your course of study. Your college education is what you make of it. From personal experience, Big 10 universities (at least Michigan State University) have wonderful honors programs for gifted students. Quite simply, any college is as academically rigorous as you make it.

2. All people do there is party, party, party.

It would be a lie to state that college students don't party. However, not everyone spends their weekends at bars and parties getting drunk. A little restraint and moderation goes a long way. That isn't to say that you shouldn't have a good time. Just be very smart about it. You will find parties no matter where you chose to enroll.

3. They are big, impersonal institutions.

Once again, your college education is what you make of it. At institutions such as Michigan State University, there are many opportunities to belong to smaller groups and feel as though you truly are more than just a number. This process actually can start as soon as you move in to your freshman dorm. Go out of your way to get involved in extracurricular activities and get to know people with whom you have a lot in common. Before you know it, that big impersonal Big 10 institution will feel like home (and it always will).

4. It is easy to get in.

This simply isn't true. Over the last decade, the Big 10 universities have become more competitive than ever. It is becoming increasingly difficult to be accepted. One of the biggest keys to being accepted is to be well rounded. In other words, if you have a 4.0 grade point average or better, a 36 on the ACT, and no extra-curricular activities, you are unlikely to get in. Colleges and universities (and the Big 10 in particular) are looking for more than academics. They want people who will truly embrace the whole college experience.

5. You are guaranteed a great job upon graduation.

It would be wonderful if this were the case, but the reality of today's economy doesn't make this so. It largely depends on where you'd like to settle upon graduation and the pursuit of other dreams and interests that you might have. However, a Big 10 degree is certainly recognized anywhere you do. There just may not be jobs available in your area of expertise where you'd like to live.

No matter how you look at it, if you choose to pursue a Big 10 degree, you will receive a wonderful education. However, the atmosphere might not be right for everyone. When considering a college or university, it is extremely important to locate on at which you comfortable. A strong feeling of belonging goes a long way towards making your freshman year easier. No matter where you decide to go or what degree you decide to pursue, college has something to offer everyone.