Questions to Ask Before Starting at the University of Michigan

Starting at the University of Michigan is exciting, intimidating, and full of decisions you don’t want to make alone. Discuno connects you with mentors who have already navigated Ann Arbor, from freshman orientation to graduate school applications. Use this guide to ask smart questions before move-in day so you can hit the ground running.

Why Talk to a Discuno Mentor First?

Real stories, no brochure fluff: Get the truth about class rigor, campus culture, and the neighborhoods that fit your vibe.
Faster decisions: Mentors help you prioritize housing, student orgs, and internship prep so you avoid choice overload.
Personalized insight: Whether you’re pre-med, undecided, or transferring, you can match with mentors who share your background.

Essential Topics to Cover

Academics

Which introductory courses fill up fastest?
What do professors actually expect in first-year seminars?
How do you balance lectures, labs, and discussion sections without burning out?

Campus Life

Where should first-years live if they want a quieter dorm?
Which student orgs help you meet friends quickly?
What are the underrated traditions every Wolverine should know?

Career Prep

How early should you visit the career center or attend companies’ info sessions?
What does a successful freshman-year resume look like?
Which local internships or research labs are open to first-year students?

Financial Wellness

How do meal plans compare to cooking in off-campus apartments?
What are the go-to resources for scholarships, emergency funds, and part-time jobs?
Are there hidden costs (lab fees, course packets, transportation) to budget for?

How Discuno Supports You

Find the right mentor: Filter by major, college, hometown, or identity group to connect with someone who gets your story.
Book in minutes: Discuno’s Cal.com integration shows real availability so you can schedule a call around your summer job or orientation sessions.
Stay accountable: Personalized checklists and reminder nudges keep your next steps clear—no more sticky-note chaos.
Keep the conversation going: After the first call, schedule follow-ups for class registration, roommate advice, or internship planning.

Sample Conversation Starter

Hi! I’m starting at U-M this fall as an engineering student. I’d love to know how you balanced labs, clubs, and social life—and any must-do prep before Welcome Week. Could we talk through your first semester playbook?

Bonus: Ann Arbor Highlights Mentors Love

Study spots: Hatcher Graduate Library stacks, Michigan Union lounges, or the top floor of the Biological Sciences building.
Food: Frita Batidos, Zingerman’s Roadhouse, and late-night Joe’s Pizza.
Outdoor escapes: Nichols Arboretum for fall colors, Gallup Park when you need a quick reset.

Ready to Plan Your First Semester?

Join Discuno, match with a Wolverine mentor, and arrive in Ann Arbor feeling prepared, confident, and connected. Book your first session today.

Why Talk to a Discuno Mentor First?

Real stories, no brochure fluff: Get the truth about class rigor, campus culture, and the neighborhoods that fit your vibe.

Faster decisions: Mentors help you prioritize housing, student orgs, and internship prep so you avoid choice overload.

Personalized insight: Whether you’re pre-med, undecided, or transferring, you can match with mentors who share your background.

Essential Topics to Cover

Which introductory courses fill up fastest?

What do professors actually expect in first-year seminars?

How do you balance lectures, labs, and discussion sections without burning out?

Where should first-years live if they want a quieter dorm?

Which student orgs help you meet friends quickly?

What are the underrated traditions every Wolverine should know?

How early should you visit the career center or attend companies’ info sessions?

What does a successful freshman-year resume look like?

Which local internships or research labs are open to first-year students?

How do meal plans compare to cooking in off-campus apartments?

What are the go-to resources for scholarships, emergency funds, and part-time jobs?

Are there hidden costs (lab fees, course packets, transportation) to budget for?

How Discuno Supports You

Find the right mentor: Filter by major, college, hometown, or identity group to connect with someone who gets your story.

Book in minutes: Discuno’s Cal.com integration shows real availability so you can schedule a call around your summer job or orientation sessions.

Stay accountable: Personalized checklists and reminder nudges keep your next steps clear—no more sticky-note chaos.

Keep the conversation going: After the first call, schedule follow-ups for class registration, roommate advice, or internship planning.

Hi! I’m starting at U-M this fall as an engineering student. I’d love to know how you balanced labs, clubs, and social life—and any must-do prep before Welcome Week. Could we talk through your first semester playbook?

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