Student Life FAQ
This FAQ is based on questions and experiences many prospective and current students have
had and the opinions and ideas they have shared during their stay in Ann Arbor.

(Hyperlinks) Housing Transportation Recreation & Football Ticket Information Financial Aid &
Money Calculators & Computing Services General Student Services Classes Academic
Information Healthcare Insurance Shopping Things to Do in the Community MLP (Orientation
Student Clubs International Networking

Housing
Q: How do I find a place to live in Ann Arbor?
A: Most MBA students live in an area roughly bounded by North University Avenue on the
north, Stadium Boulevard on the south, Main Street on the west, and Washtenaw Avenue on the
east. With a couple exceptions, anything not within this area is outside of normal
comfortable biking distance, and certainly outside of walking distance, especially in winter
months. The area described above is for the most part a quiet residential neighborhood that
contains mostly rental houses (if you see multiple old pairs of shoes hanging from the
telephone wires in front of a given house, it's probably a good indication that the area is
a bit more rowdy!). It's best to focus your housing search in this area first and then
expand if you don't have any luck. The University's off Campus Housing Office publishes a
free, "must-have" map that will be of tremendous assistance not only as you search for
housing but also long after you've arrived in Ann Arbor and are still trying to navigate
your way around town.
Start your housing search by contacting current Michigan MBA students if you can. Many
current MBA2s occupy the best rental housing as far as MBAs' needs are concerned, and they
will be happy to "turn over" a house to you through their landlord after they graduate.
Another popular option for those who can visit Ann Arbor (especially during Go Blue!
Rendezvous) is to drive through the neighborhood and note the rental company names and
telephone numbers posted on many of the rental homes. If that doesn't pan out, consult the
Off-Campus Housing list available from the U of M Off-Campus Housing Office or the Kinko's
branch in downtown Ann Arbor. Once you have the housing list, you can contact local rental
housing management companies, tell them you're a graduate student in the MBA program, and
ask them if they have properties in the area outlined above. Chances are they'll be happy
to help you.

Q: What's the difference between an "application fee" and a "deposit?"
A: Most Ann Arbor landlords, especially commercial property managers, will charge
prospective renters an application fee. This is just what it sounds like: a fee that you
must pay to have your application reviewed. It's designed to weed out people who aren't
seriously considering a given property and those with bad credit who apply at multiple
properties and hope that at least one landlord will overlook their flaws. A deposit is
simply a good faith payment that holds your apartment until you sign a rental contract. It
can also be held for the duration of the lease and applied to rent owed or damages.
Application fees are generally non-refundable while deposits are generally returned within
30 days after you move out less any damages that occurred during your stay. Application
fees and deposits are generally never refunded if you pay them and then decide to live
elsewhere. The bottom line: only apply and put down a deposit on a property if you think
you'll move in. One other note: many landlords who are anxious to attract potential tenants
will waive application fees, so you should definitely ask about this possibility.

Q: How do I pay an application fee or put down a deposit on a property if I'm not in Ann
Arbor?
A: If you're somewhere besides Ann Arbor (like overseas) and need to get an application fee
or deposit to a landlord, be sure to ask about paying with VISA or MasterCard. This will
save you the hassle and expense of sending a certified check, money order, etc. or trying to
wire money.
Beware that Ann Arbor landlords take a very dim view of people who apply for or sign leases
and make deposits and then change their mind! If you try this, you can rest assured that
you will get no sympathy from the landlord, and none of your deposit or application fee,
either.

Q: What kind of market is the Ann Arbor rental housing market?
A: Ann Arbor is very much a "seller's" market as far as the best-located, most desirable
rental properties are concerned. Is this cause for panic? No. Everyone, including those
admitted to the MBA program at the last minute always finds some place to live, but not in
the best location or at the best price. Start early!

Q: How long of a lease should I sign?
A: As stated before, MBA2s occupy the best housing. This means that there are always
significant opportunities to "move up" to better housing after your first year at Michigan.
You should generally not sign a lease longer than 10 to 12 months, unless you have a really
great rental unit (in other words, a moderately-priced, well-maintained place within about 4
blocks of the business school, or a great place close to school that you, as an MBA1,
initially share with MBA2s) or are absolutely certain you won't want to move after your
first year. Although many Ann Arbor landlords will try very hard to tempt you with a 20
month lease at a locked-in rental rate, it is almost always preferable to take a 10 or 12
month lease and move after a year into a better property (that may well be cheaper and more
convenient). Most MBA1s form groups with classmates to move into rental units for their
MBA2 year, and being stuck in a 20 month lease (especially in a one bedroom property) makes
this nearly impossible.

Q: On what date should I begin and end my lease?
A: For beginning your lease, it is very helpful to arrive in plenty of time prior to MLP
(MBA Orientation), QSW, M-Trek, etc. Providing extra time at the beginning allows you to
comfortably move in, set up utilities, bank accounts, etc. For 2005, MLP and welcoming
social activities will begin on August 24.
For ending your lease, be sure to consult the U of M academic calendar to determine exactly
when your lease should end when you graduate. Most landlords will allow you to "hold over"
extra months after your lease ends, but they will normally charge a substantial premium over
and above (for instance normal rent plus 50%) of your previous monthly rate for each month
that you exercise the privilege. So if you think you'll want to stay in Ann Arbor during
the summer after graduation, the time to discuss this with your landlord is at lease
signing.

Q: Can I bargain? Over lease terms?
A: Yes to both questions. Although it should go without saying, it is very important to a)
read and understand your housing lease before signing it and b) double-check your landlord's
numeric calculations before signing. There is no shame in taking your calculator to your
lease signing and telling your landlord, "I'd like 15 or 20 minutes to review my lease and
to check your financial calculations." It's a good idea to do this even if your landlord
has sent a preview copy of your lease to you in advance. If you have any questions at all
or if the numbers don't add up, ask for clarification, as a few minutes invested early on
can save major headaches later. There is also no reason that you cannot negotiate with your
landlord about terms in your lease -- just because a term or clause appears in your
landlord's boilerplate lease doesn't mean it's written in stone and can't be negotiated,
crossed-out, or rewritten to your satisfaction.

Q: What about referral fees?
A: Most landlords in Ann Arbor pay referral fees (up to several hundred dollars) to their
existing tenants who refer new tenants. If you sign a lease with a commercial realtor, be
sure to ask MBA2s you know if they can generate a referral fee for them by listing them as
the person who referred you. Most MBA2s will happily split any referral fee they receive
with incoming MBA1s who sign new leases.

Q: How should I relate to my landlord?
A: Landlords in Ann Arbor are often alike in many respects. They are usually accustomed to
dealing with students (often undergraduates) who in many cases are spending their parents'
money on rent, and they have very low tolerance for any attempts to break or cancel leases.
Landlords should generally respond promptly if you ask for things in disrepair to be fixed.
For example, if the bathroom or kitchen sink faucets are 30 years old and leaking, your
landlord may well replace them on request, especially if you ask for a repair soon after you
move in. Whatever you don't like upon move in, complain both politely and promptly. In
many cases, the way a landlord treats you after six months or so will be a direct result of
impressions he forms of you during your first few months as a tenant. So don't be a jerk,
but don't be a pushover, either - both behaviors will come back to haunt you.
Make all requests for repairs in writing and keep a log of them for future reference. If
worse comes to worse, don't hesitate to seek help from the Michigan Student Assembly
Tenant’s Union attorneys in the Michigan Union. There is no charge to speak to them or
enlist their help, and they are expert at solving landlord-tenant disputes.

Q: What if my landlord and I get into a dispute?
A: Ann Arbor landlord-tenant law is generally written in tenants' favor, so it is always
worth pressing your case if you believe you are right and your landlord is wrong about
something. Ann Arbor law dictates that your landlord must give you a copy of the city's
"Rights and Duties of Tenants" handbook when you move in, and this booklet is an invaluable
reference source should you and your landlord lock horns. Take the time necessary to read
this pamphlet and familiarize yourself with the information it contains. If you believe
that your landlord is not in compliance with any provisions of the handbook, bring the
matter to your landlord's attention at once. If you do not get satisfaction, consult the
Michigan Student Assembly Tenant’s Union attorneys for advice and assistance.

Q: What about utilities?
A: Check out http://www.makethemove.com/ for help with getting utilities established in Ann
Arbor. Be certain that all utilities (gas, water, electricity, etc.) are placed in your
name immediately (in other words, within about 48 hours) after you move in, otherwise,
you'll likely be assessed a fee by your landlord (who, understandably, doesn't want to get a
bill for utilities you've consumed while your name isn't on the account).

Q: Should I be concerned about heating costs?
A: Absolutely! Michigan winters can be cold and windy, and heating and energy costs can be
a major expense. Natural gas heat is considerably cheaper than electric heat, and you
should definitely inquire of your potential landlord what kind of heat a given property has.
Also ask about how old your prospective rental property is, and whether it has storm
(double glass) windows,

Q: How can I furnish my apartment once I arrive?
A: See the listing elsewhere in this FAQ that explains where popular stores are in Ann
Arbor.

Q: Should I consider renter's insurance?
A: Yes! Please consider renter's insurance during your time in AA. The landlord’s
insurance covers the building and liability but does not cover your personal belongings or
pay for another place to live should your apartment become uninhabitable. See
http://www.insweb.com/ to compare renter's insurance rates or consult the Ann Arbor Yellow
Pages after you arrive.

Q: I'm arriving in Ann Arbor before my lease starts -- where can I find temporary housing?
A: There's a resource page on the web that lists several cheap options such as budget hotels
in the area. Click here for more on this if you're interested. You may also wish to post to
iMpact or MichMBA indicating the dates you need help with a place to stay -- in the past,
many MBAs have offered to share accommodations with others who arrive before their leases
start.

Q: I'm driving a truck full of furniture to Ann Arbor -- who can I get to help me unload it?
A: Many MBAs arrive in Ann Arbor well before the start of classes and are happy to help
fellow students with unloading trucks, carrying furniture up stairs, etc. Just post a
message on iMpact or MichMBA and you'll have no troubling getting helpers.

Q: Where can I drop my rental truck in Ann Arbor?
A: There is a U-Haul location close to campus at the intersection of South State Street
and Interstate 94 if you need to drop off a truck. There is also a U-Haul location close by
in Ypsilanti on Washtenaw Avenue, a few miles east of US 23. If you reserve a U-Haul
vehicle, be sure to ask for rates for both the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti drop locations, as
they can vary significantly depending on current inventories at each depot. Penske does
not have a drop off location in Ann Arbor, although there is a Penske location in Plymouth,
Michigan, about 30 minutes east of Ann Arbor.

Q: Do I need a land-line telephone or can I get by with just a cellular phone?
A: Increasing numbers of Michigan MBAs survive with just cell phones, and as cellular rates
drop, choosing to forego a land-line telephone is an increasingly viable and money-saving
option.
If you opt for a traditional land-line telephone, be sure to compare local phone service
options from both Ameritech and Comcast. Comcast's rates are often substantially cheaper
than Ameritech's as Comcast attempts to lure customers away from Ameritech. Some of the
traditional long distance companies (such as MCI) are also now offering local service in Ann
Arbor. As of 2001, basic unlimited telephone service from Ameritech was approximately $45
per month (not including caller ID, call waiting, or other add-on services or taxes).
Even if you don't rely solely on your cell phone for your communications needs, you should
make a habit of comparing your cellular rate and option plan to the latest available from
your provider. In particular, if you're a Sprint PCS customer as many Michigan MBAs are, be
sure to compare your current plan to those available at the Michigan Union Computer Showcase
store -- in many cases the Computer Showcase Sprint PCS plans have added benefits or extra
minutes just for University of Michigan students. You can change to a more lucrative plan
at any time, even if you're on a Sprint PCS Advantage Agreement.
If you're trying to decide which cellular or long distance service to choose, note that
Sprint long distance and Sprint PCS offer Northwest Airlines miles, and that Northwest is by
far the dominant carrier in and out of Detroit. These extra miles can come in handy when
traveling for job interviews, vacations, etc.
If you have a high speed internet connection you may consider Voice Over Internet Protocol
(VOIP) phone service through Vonage (Add linkhttp://www.vonage.com). You may have to
purchase a connection box prior to beginning service; however this is dependent upon their
current offers. A standard home phone is then plugged into the connection box. Service rates
start as low as $14.99 per month for local and $24.99 for local and long distance calls,
including Canada and Puerto Rico. Check their website for information on International
Calling Rates. Features such as voice mail, caller ID, and call waiting are included at no
extra charge.

Q: What can I do if I got accepted at the last minute or can't come to Ann Arbor to look for
housing?
A: You have several options. You can try to locate another admitted student via MichMBA
who is looking for a roommate, or you can also try to find housing by simply calling one of
the large housing complexes in Ann Arbor such as:
http://www.apartment-rental.net/overture_mi_ann_arbor.html Ann Arbor Area Apartment Listing
Online
Hidden Valley Club (on the free Ann Arbor Transit Authority #36 line) - (734) 761-8947
Nob Hill (older but walking distance) - (734) 668-8888
Ponds at Georgetown (fairly new, alarm systems, on the AATA #5 bus line) - (734) (761-2330)
University Towers (older but very close to the business school) - (734) 761-2680
Woodbury Gardens (on the Ann Arbor Transit Authority #6 line) - (734) 663-7633
Exploring those possibilities will probably be your best bet. Above all, don't panic --
everybody always finds a place to live, even people admitted to the Michigan MBA program the
day orientation starts!

Q: How do I change my address so my mail is forwarded to me from my previous residence?
A: Changing your address can be done online through the U.S. Postal Service.  This online service allows you to change your address as well as indicate when you would like your mail to begin forwarding to your new residence.  The cost is $1 paid via credit card.  A confirmation will be sent to the email account you indicate on the form.  In addition, you can print coupons to assist with moving costs from this site upon completion of the address change. 

Transportation
Q: How will I get back and forth to school?
A: Most MBAs walk, bike, or take the bus. Ann Arbor Transportation Authority bus routes 5
(State Street/Packard), 6 (State Street/Briarwood Mall), and 36 (State Street/Wolverine
Tower) stop a block from Michigan's Ross School of Business (at the corner of State Street
and Monroe Street), as do U of M campus busses. You can ride any AATA route or any U of M
bus for free by showing your U of M ID "M-Card." All AATA busses (but not U of M busses)
are equipped with bike racks on the front -- if you're a bus passenger, you can take your
bike along at no extra charge. One option to consider is taking your bike on the bus in the
morning and then riding your bike home in the afternoon. See http://www.aata.org/ for more
information.

Q: Can I park my car at Michigan's Ross School of Business to attend daytime classes?
A: Generally no. There is no morning or early afternoon parking available at Michigan's Ross
School of Business for students. Michigan's Ross School of Business garage is for faculty
and staff only until 3 PM, and street meter parking is limited to 4 hours (assuming you get
very lucky and can find a spot after 8 AM). Some students are able to rent parking spaces
near Ross School of Business, but they are very rare and very expensive ($100+ per month in
many cases). A new public parking garage two blocks east of the business school opened in
the summer of 2001, but there are no guarantees that spots will always be available there.
If you want to try to rent a space, see http://www.offcampus.housing.umich.edu/lt/index.cfm
for possible options or contact one of the local property management firms.

Q: What are "after hours" parking permits?
A: MBA students (all graduate students for that matter) are eligible for so-called "after
hours" parking permits that allow them to park in the business school parking garage (or any
other "blue" lot on campus) beginning at 3 PM. Without a permit, students cannot park in the
garage until after 5 PM. Having an after hour permit can be very convenient, especially if
you want to walk, bike, or bus home and then return for late afternoon corporate
presentations and/or study sessions. After hours permits cost $48 and are valid for the
entire school year (you must take your UM ID with you to purchase one) and are available
from the U of M Parking Services Office (2 blocks from the business school) at 508 Thompson
Street. The Parking Office phone number is (734) 764-8291 and their fax is (734) 763-4041.
You can also reach the parking office via e-mail at UMPark@UMich.edu See
http://www.parking.umich.edu for more information.

Q: Do I have to register my car in Michigan while I'm a full-time U of M student?
A: In most cases, no. The Michigan Secretary of State's Office (which handles vehicle
title, tag, and license issues) does not require full-time U of M students from out of state
to register their vehicles in Michigan. However, if you accept part-time employment, you
lose this exemption and are required to obtain a Michigan title and license plates.

Q: Do I have to get a Michigan driver's license?
A: Again, no, unless you become a resident of the state and are changing your voting
address to Michigan, etc. Although international agreements allow foreign students to drive
in the U.S. with a license from their home country for 90 days, it is a very good idea for
foreign students to obtain Michigan driver's licenses as this will greatly reduce
complications in case of encounters with police while driving. Also, because driver's
licenses are so often used in the U.S. as official identification and proof of age, it is a
good idea for foreign students to obtain Michigan licenses for convenience when opening bank
accounts, writing checks, entering stores and restaurants where alcohol is served and proof
of age is required, etc. See http://www.michigan.gov/sos for hours, locations, and phone
numbers of Secretary of State Offices near the University. If you have an international
driver’s license that is not written in English, you will need to obtain an official
translated version to the Secretary of State office.

Q: Do I need a Michigan automobile insurance policy?
A: Yes. All the usual companies (AAA, GEICO, Allstate, State Farm, Progressive, etc.) can
write you a Michigan automobile policy. Although you can keep your out-of-state (i.e.
non-Michigan) license plates on your car you should get Michigan insurance if your car will
be located in Michigan. Michigan law about minimum insurance levels differs from that of
other states, and most insurance companies require you to keep them updated on where the car
is spending most of its time. If you don't and you have an accident, your insurer can deny
your claim. You may also get a hassle from police if you're stopped in Michigan for some
reason and the police learn you're a 2-year resident of Ann Arbor but haven't gotten
Michigan insurance. There are people who don't address this aspect of vehicle ownership
while they're students at Michigan's Ross School of Business, but obviously this is an issue
of personal risk tolerance. Insurance rates vary wildly from one person to another, and
from one company for another, and it's nearly impossible for two people to compare their
rate quotes. If you apply for insurance and don't get a rate that you like, call other
companies and pit them against each other. Generally you will get the best rate from a
company you've dealt with over the long term. See http://www.insweb.com/ to compare rates
on-line.
Q: Are there bike racks at Michigan's Ross School of Business?
A: Yes. The school has a section of racks to accommodate increased demand for bike
parking places. You should not lock your bike to light poles or stanchions in the business
school courtyard. Note that all Ann Arbor Transportation Authority busses (but not U of M
busses) are equipped with bike racks. If you're a bus passenger, you can take your bike
along at no extra charge. Many students take their bikes on the bus in the morning and then
ride home (downhill from school) in the afternoon (when it's warmer). Be sure your bike has
a rear fender to protect you from ground up leaf slop flying all over your back in the
autumn.

Q: What kind of lock do I need for my bike?
A: Do not use any kind of lock other than a U-shaped lock made by a reputable manufacturer
such as Kryptonite. You should always lock your bike by securing at least one wheel and one
frame post to a bike rack or other very solid object. If you have an expensive seat, you
should also consider some sort of locking mechanism for it. Ann Arbor is a relatively safe
town, but the large number of bikes around the university inevitably attracts thieves who
are drawn to easy targets such as bikes carelessly secured with chains or cables. It is
exceedingly rare to hear of a bike stolen while properly secured to a rack with a good
quality lock.

Q: How can I get from Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) to Ann Arbor?
A: Commuter Express at Detroit Metro Airport, see the Commuter Express agent in the baggage
claim area of your airline or click here for more information. One way service is $48.
(Service to the airport is hourly (on the hour from airport, 15 minutes after the hour from
the Michigan Union). A round trip (open-ended return) ticket costs $42, and a one-way ticket
is $22. Many cab companies offer group rates (e.g. ($45) TOTAL for 3 people from Blue Cab,
with 24 hour service to or from Metro Airport). Look at
http://www.umich.edu/~info/airport-transportation.html for more information. See also
http://www.metroairport.com/. One other option is Metro Cars sedan service (black Lincoln
Town Cars). Metro Cars flat-rate fare to and from the airport is $54 one way.

Q: What is the most popular airline to fly into Detroit?
A: Detroit Metro Airport is a hub for Northwest (and Northwest's code share partner KLM),
and Northwest offers far more flights in and out of Detroit than any other carrier. If
you're looking for a seat, it's probably easiest to check for Northwest availability. If
you're looking to maximize mileage on Northwest (or any other airline, for that matter) for
free tickets home or vacation trips, see the Mileage Workshop. Note that Sprint long
distance and Sprint PCS offer Northwest World Perks miles based on usage.

Q: Can I fly into Detroit City Airport?
A: Yes, but it's much, much farther away from Ann Arbor than Detroit Metro Airport (about
twice the distance to Ann Arbor) and offers very limited commercial airline service. You
should generally avoid it if at all possible.

Q: Can I get to Ann Arbor any other way besides flying?
A: Yes. There is an Amtrak station in Ann Arbor that offers direct service to Chicago and
downtown Detroit. Be sure to check Amtrak's web site at http://www.amtrak.com/ before you
book a trip, as there are often web-only specials that offer significant discounts off of
normal fares. You can also use a Student Advantage card to receive discounts on Amtrak.
VIA Rail offers service from Windsor, Ontario (just across the border in Detroit) to point
throughout Canada.

Q: Can I travel to Canada as an international student?
A: The problem for non-U.S. citizens traveling to Canada is not so much getting into Canada;
it's getting back into the United States once you've been in Canada for a visit. If you want
to go to Canada, be sure to confirm with a U.S. Immigration officer before leaving the U.S.
that you have the appropriate paperwork with you to get back. U.S. citizens should bring a
visa or birth certificate to enter Canada or proof of U.S. citizenship when returning to the
U.S.

Q: Where can I buy a car?
A: Your best bets are the used car lots at local franchised car dealers (Ford, Chevrolet,
etc.) or private individuals advertising vehicles for sale in the Michigan Daily, Ann Arbor
News, or For the Record (a publication for university faculty and staff). Generally,
vehicles sold on used car lots come with some kind of warranty (30 days or so). Most
students find that university-affiliated car sellers (particularly faculty) are honest and
will deal with student purchasers in a straightforward manner.

Q: Where can I rent a car?
A: Your best bet is probably Enterprise Rent-A-Car, which has two locations in Ann Arbor.
One is at 4555 Washtenaw Avenue (on the east side of US 23) and the other is at 3880 Jackson
Road (near the intersection of I-94 and Jackson Road). Enterprise generally has excellent
weekend specials such as ($24.69) per day for a small car. Weekday rates are also
reasonable. If they're out of small cars, they'll often upgrade you to a larger vehicle at
no charge. The Jackson Road location has done a lot of business with Michigan's Ross School
of Business students (especially international students) and will generally respond
favorably if you mention that you are a member of the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at
the University of Michigan community. Enterprise will pick you up and take you to their
office to complete rental paperwork, and they will also drop you back at home after you
return your rental car. You will need a driver's license (international license are
generally OK for U.S. rentals) and credit card. If you're from overseas, it's probably a
good idea to bring along your passport and U of M ID as additional identification. A word
to the wise: be sure to return the car with the same amount of fuel as when you rented it,
or you will likely be charged a hefty refueling
surcharge.

Recreation

Q: How do I order Michigan football tickets?
A: The U of M athletic department will provide ticket application information in postal
mailings, via mass e-mails, or via the web to students before school starts. Ticket
application forms are mailed out with the career search guide, Part II. Student tickets for
home games are generally relatively inexpensive, although there is great demand for them and
you should not wait until the last minute to order them if you're interested in seeing
Michigan home games.

Q: If I am a late admit, is it still possible to get football tickets?
A: Since the application deadline has passed you can still be placed on the student waitlist
for season football tickets. In order to be placed on this waitlist, email the Ticket
Office. The subject of your email should state "student waitlist" and the body of the email
should include your full name, Student ID #, email address, and a daytime phone number.

If you have further questions regarding the student waitlist for season football tickets
please contact the Ticket Office directly at: 734-764-0247.

Q: Is there a special section in the football stadium for Michigan's Ross School of Business
students?
A: Yes. If you indicate on your football ticket order form that you are a business school
student, you will be seated with other MBA1s. When you order tickets for your MBA2 year,
you can form your own group of friends to sit with.

Q: Can I order football tickets for my SOS?
A: Yes, although your SOS will not be eligible for a student discount on tickets and will
have to pay a higher ticket price. You and your SOS will be seated together if you submit
your ticket applications in the same envelope. Details will be included in the ticket
application mailing.

Q: Should I order Michigan football tickets; even if I don't think I'll want any of them?
A: Yes! Although Michigan Stadium seats more than 100,000 people, there is always
tremendous demand for extra football tickets, and your fellow students or other Michigan
fans will gratefully purchase any (or all) of yours if you don't want them. In some cases
(for instance games against Ohio State or Michigan State), you can sell a single student
ticket for more than you paid for all six home game tickets. Note that ticket "scalping"
(reselling tickets for at a price above their face value) is technically illegal, and that
Ann Arbor and U of M police take a dim view of people who do this blatantly within close
proximity to stadium gates. But you should not encounter any difficulty if you are
discreet, don't sell your tickets right outside the stadium, or find a buyer before game
day.

Q: Are there tailgates for Michigan football games?
A: Yes! UMBSA (the University of Michigan Business Students Association) and corporate
sponsors host tailgates for each home football game. Tailgates feature and all-you-can-eat
catered barbecue, open bar, soft drinks, etc. UMBSA members attend tailgates for free.

Q: Where can I find out about American football rules?
A: An introduction to the game is at http://www.cae.wisc.edu/~dwilson/rsfc/intro/ and
questions and answers about the game are at
http://www.cae.wisc.edu/~dwilson/rsfc/intro/answers.shtml

Q: What are the MBA Games?
A: MBA Games are an Olympics-style competition that usually take place on Friday of the
first week of classes. Sections compete against each other in sports such as soccer,
tug-of-war, softball, and so on. The winning section receives a cash prize and party and
gets its photo on the front of the highly-coveted Wheaties box.

Q: Where can I work out?
A: There are a variety of work-out and recreation facilities (weight rooms, swimming pools,
tennis courts, etc.) on campus (the Central Campus Recreation Building (CCRB) or the
Intramural Building near the business school) that are available to students at no charge.
There are also commercial gyms such as Bally Total Fitness, etc. in Ann Arbor.

Q: What sports can I play in Ann Arbor?
A: Soon after school starts, there are always pick-up leagues and groups organized for
people interested in playing soccer or basketball, mountain biking, rugby, hiking, and so
on. Watch for announcements in the Monroe Street Journal or sent via e-mail or iMpact.

Q: Should I participate in an "M-Trek?"
A: M-Trek is a completely optional program for incoming MBA1s who are interested in
meeting their future classmates and bonding with each them in a rugged, outdoor environment
(the "Wild Blue Yonder"). Trips are designed and led by incoming MBA2s with wilderness
experience. For more information on M-Trek, see http://www.mtrek.org/

Money

Q: How does the Financial Aid process work?
A: Please review the Financial Aid website
http://www.bus.umich.edu/Admissions/OfficeFinancialAid/

Q: Can I qualify for in-state tuition if I've been living outside Michigan? Can I qualify
after I've been at Michigan for a year?
A: In a nutshell, no. One key question for in-state tuition status determination purposes is
whether you intend to stay in Michigan (in other words, establish "domicile" in Michigan)
after you finish Michigan's Ross School of Business. The burden (by "clear and convincing"
evidence -- meaning with great certainty) will be on you to prove that you will hang around
after you graduate, and the fact that you will have arrived in the State of Michigan
coincident with the start of school will make your case subject to extra scrutiny and
suspicion. If you can't prove that you came to the State of Michigan for a reason other than
to attend Michigan's Ross School of Business, you'll be classified as a non-resident (for
tuition rate purposes) and have to pay out-of-state tuition.
The plain-English determinative questions for in-state tuition are, in so many words:
1) Did you come to the State of Michigan at least a year before you started at the U of M?
2) Did you arrive in Michigan for some reason other than to attend Michigan's Ross School of
Business?
3) Is it likely that your Michigan's Ross School of Business education will somehow benefit
the State of Michigan after you graduate?
If you can answer "yes" to all 3 questions, you may get the in-state rate. Otherwise,
prepare to cough up the out-of-state rate. If it makes you feel any better, the in-state
discount for the MBA program at Michigan is not as large as you might expect, usually only a
couple thousand dollars per year. All of that said, can you claim Michigan residency for
paying state income tax, voting, etc.? In most cases, sure. The State of Michigan will
happily take your tax revenue, license plate fees, and your presence in the state for U.S.
Census purposes. Just be sure some other state can't claim that you should be paying primary
state income tax there.
See http://www.umich.edu/~regoff/resreg.html for more information on tuition status.

Q: What are banking options in Ann Arbor?
A: See http://www.umich.edu/~info/bank.html for more information on Ann Arbor banking
options, how to open accounts, etc. National City is the closest bank to the business
school, with a branch on South University Avenue. The U of M Credit Union operates an ATM
inside the business school that is available to anyone -- it's connected to the Cirrus,
Magic Line, NYCE, SC24, and MAC ATM networks

Q: If I'm an international student, how should I convert currency to US dollars?
A: Contact your local bank to check into their foreign currency exchange services. Or, an
easy way to do this is to obtain traveler's checks in U.S. dollars before you leave your
home country. In most cases, you can also bring an ATM card from your home bank and then
use it to withdraw dollars from a local ATM. Most major banks in countries outside the U.S.
can provide traveler's checks, as can American Express offices worldwide.

Q: What are the most commonly accepted credit cards in the U.S., and how can I get one?
A: If a merchant in the U.S. accepts credit cards, Visa and MasterCard are almost
guaranteed to be among them. American Express is also widely accepted. Less useful cards
are Discover and Diner's Club. Very few merchants accept JCB. International students often
have significant difficulty when applying for credit cards in the U.S. because they are
deemed to have insufficient credit histories. For that reason, it's very helpful for
international students to apply for a credit card before leaving their home country.
Perhaps the best way for international students to obtain a credit card from a U.S. bank is
to open a bank account and then apply for a "Visa debit card" or "Visa check card" that's
linked to it. These cards can be used just like an ordinary Visa card but they debit funds
directly from a bank account when a transaction takes place. One other option is to open a
bank account and then apply for a "normal" Visa card from the same bank with assistance from
the bank branch manager. International students can also apply for one of the credit cards
marketed toward students - applications for student cards are generally available at campus
bookstores, especially during the first weeks of school.

Q: Can I deduct Michigan's Ross School of Business tuition from my income tax?
A: Generally, no. MBA courses are deductible IF (and it's a BIG if) they meet the IRS's
so-called "work-related" test. That test is that you 1) are employed, 2) already meet the
qualifications for the position you're in, 3) must take classes that enhance the skills you
already have or that your employer requires in order to keep the position you're in, and 4)
the coursework does NOT qualify you for a new or enhanced position (a "new business" as the
IRS calls it).
If your classes will prepare you for a "new business," then you CANNOT take a tax deduction
for tuition.
For example: a law student cannot deduct law school tuition expenses (because he's not yet a
practicing attorney but is hoping to become one) but can deduct the cost of mandatory
continuing legal education classes or LLM (master's of law or master's in tax) classes once
he's an attorney and has made the practice of law his source of income.
So, if you already have some managerial or administrative experience and are getting an MBA
to improve your EXISTING skills (and while you stay in pretty much the same position), then
you MAY qualify for a deduction. If your employer requires you to have an MBA as an entry
qualification for a given position, then you are qualifying for a "new business" and cannot
take a deduction.
Overall, chances are very slim that you'll get to deduct your Michigan's Ross School of
Business tuition; if you try it (even legitimately) you're probably asking for an audit
(because obviously all of us would just love to be able to write off our Michigan's Ross
School of Business tuition and related expenses). Recall also that IRS can audit you several
years after you file a return; if you deduct your MBA tuition and claim it didn't qualify
you for a "new business," but your subsequent income and promotions/positions prove
otherwise, you're in trouble.
This is a simplified explanation; consult a tax advisor for all the dirty details.

Q: What about the Hope tax credit for educational expenses?
A: Most MBA candidates probably will qualify for the annual $1000 (or, more precisely, 20%
of the first $5000 of tuition and expenses each year) "Lifetime Learning Credit" available
to graduate students who file IRS form 8863. If your income while taking the credit is more
than $40,000 (or over $80,000 for married couples), then you don't get to take the whole 20%
and if it's above $50,000 (or $100,000 for a married couple) you get no credit at all. See
http://www.irs.gov/ for more information.

Q: Do I have to pay income tax on scholarship money I receive?
A: No. "Qualified" scholarship income is not taxable. The precise definition of qualified
is long, but here's a quick summary: any scholarship explicitly intended for room, food, or
travel is NOT tax deductible. Anything used for tuition IS tax deductible. Anything not
explicitly earmarked that you can prove you used for required expenses (e.g., books or a
laptop computer, if required)) IS tax deductible.

Q: Can I deduct the interest I pay on student loans?
A: Yes, but only in the year in which you actually shell out the interest payments. You
may not deduct the principal on your student loan. Consult a tax advisor for more on this.

Calculators

Q: What calculator do I need?
A: Most Michigan MBAs have Hewlett Packard calculators. The HP 12C and 17Bii are probably
most popular with MBAs, but there are always a few HP 19Biis and 10Bs floating around, too.
There are also various TI models that people use. The only requirement is that the
calculator must be able to do net present value calculations. Many professors explain
calculations based on the steps used on HPs, so if you're in the market for a new
calculator, check out one of these to simplify things.
Best Buy, Staples, and other local stores have good selections of calculators, but they
often run out around the time school gets underway, so it pays to price shop early and be
ready to make your purchase before or during QSW or just after class starts.
As is the case with laptop computers, you should never leave your calculator (or other
valuables) unattended, especially in the business school's Kresge Library.

Computers

Q: What computer services are available while I'm a student?
A: See http://www.itd.umich.edu/your-account/index.html.

Q: What will my U of M e-mail address be?
A: It will depend on what "uniqname" is assigned to you by the University's Information
Technology Division (ITD). Once you confirm that you will be attending the U of M, you may
be able to find out what your uniqname and e-mail address will be by going to the University
directory at http://directory.umich.edu/ and searching your first and last name. If your
uniqname has been created and assigned to you, it will appear when you search for yourself.
If you don't like your assigned uniqname, you can request a new one from the ITD office in
the Michigan Union computer lab (in the basement of Michigan Union). See
http://www.com.itd.umich.edu/dialin/account.html for more information about computer
accounts.

Q: What software can I buy through the U of M?
A: The U of M offers deeply-discounted software from student purchase (for example,
Microsoft Office 2000 Professional for $33). Other Microsoft software (such as Windows 2000
or Windows ME) is available for borrowing from the U of M libraries. See
http://www.itd.umich.edu/microsoft/ for more information.

Q: Do I need a laptop?
A: They're certainly convenient, but they're not required by the business school and many
students get by without them. The school generally offers incoming students a discounted
laptop purchase option, but many students who buy laptops for school do so on their own and
do not suffer any negative consequences, so long as they're able to configure their machines
to meet the "standard" configuration. In some cases, incoming students have banded together
to negotiate their own volume purchase discount on new machines. The computer lab staff
holds laptop configuration sessions early in the school year, and you should definitely
attend one if you bring your own laptop with you to school. It all depends on your needs.
See iMpact at http://www.bus.umich.edu/Technology/Laptops/FAQ.htm for more information on
the laptop purchase option.

Q: What is iMpact?
A: iMpact is the Michigan's Ross School of Business home page for students. From iMpact,
you can access just about any information you might need while you're at the School. You'll
also register for classes and develop your resume on iMpact.
Q: What is Wolverine Access?
A: Wolverine Access is the U of M's student records and course registration system.

Q: What is Coursetools?
A: Coursetools is a web page where instructors post syllabi, handouts, and other
course-related materials. You have automatic access to all your class materials when you
log in to Coursetools.

Q: Is my laptop computer safe at school?
A: The vast, vast majority of people at the university, and in the business school in
particular, would never even consider stealing from fellow students. However, as the
business school is open to persons not bound by the university or business school honor
code, students must always take extra precautions with expensive belongings (laptops, book
bags, calculators, and purses). Every year it seems, there are several laptop thefts at
school, most often from Kresge Library. Never leave your laptop or other belongings
unattended in the library, even for a minute or two. Have insurance for your laptop, and
always have backups of important data in case you are victimized or suffer a hard drive
crash. If you are a theft victim, report your loss immediately to the Dean's office and the
U of M Department of Public Safety so that extra security can be added as needed.

Q: Do I need a printer or a scanner?
A: Not really. A laser printer is a luxury for most MBAs, especially since there are 10
black and white lasers available at no charge (plus several color laser printers available
at a low cost) at the business school. There are scanners available for student use in the
business school computer lab. You should not purchase an ink jet, bubble jet, or other
non-laser printer as they are slow and offer inferior print quality that is generally
unacceptable for homework or other assignments.

Q: Is high-speed Internet access available in Ann Arbor?
A: Yes. Comcast (the local cable TV franchisee) offers its "Comcast@Home" cable modem
service in most parts of Ann Arbor. There are also a number of local DSL providers who can
serve your needs.

Q: What kind of computer network is available at the business school?
A: The business school has a wireless network that students can access either via wireless
cards available from the circulation desk in Kresge Library or via their own wireless cards
that they've purchased. There are also hard-wire connection ports all around Kresge Library
and in renovated classrooms.

Q: If I have a wireless card, DSL, or cable modem for my laptop or PC, should I be concerned
about network security?
A: Yes, especially with DSL or a cable modem. Firewall software is an absolute must to
protect your files and computer. ZoneAlarm personal firewall (freeware) is especially good
if you're going to be on an ISDN or DSL connection or use a wireless card (although it's
great even if you're on a dial-up). ZoneAlarm not only hides your PC from the rest of the
world (i.e. hackers) by shutting down your PC's unused ports, it also prevents so-called
"spyware" hidden on your PC from connecting secretly to the Internet and transferring your
PC's data.

Q: Is there other good software that's useful in Michigan's Ross School of Business
environment?
A: Yes. EzPop email checker (free) is very useful at Michigan's Ross School of Business
since many (most) Michigan students have to get their e-mail via Mulberry or Hotmail or some
other non-U of M-affiliated service (EzPop works with Hotmail, Yahoo! Mail, and POP3
e-mail). EzPop sits on your desktop or in your system tray, automatically monitors your
inbox(es), and notifies you when a message arrives. This means that if you use Hotmail, for
instance, you don't have to keep opening a web browser and logging in to see if you've got
new mail.
Also, AtomTime clock synch (shareware). This application loads automatically at Windows
start up, waits in the background for you to open an Internet connection, automatically
synchronizes your PC's clock to the atomic clock in Boulder, Colorado, then shuts itself
down. Your PC clock will never be off again.
Finally, you can get free virus detection software from the U of M at
http://www.itd.umich.edu/virusbusters/.

Q: Is there any place on campus to do "advanced" computing?
A: Yes. The U of M Media Union, located on North Campus, has a number of specialized,
high-tech computing facilities available for student use. There are CD burners, a large
poster printer, flatbed and slide scanners, and audio and video mixing and dubbing
facilities. See http://www.ummu.umich.edu/facilities/groundworks/ for more information.

MLP/Orientation
Q: Is orientation (MLP -- Michigan Leadership Program) mandatory? (Move this to MLP section)
A: Yes. If you do not arrive in time for MLP, the admissions office may assume you are
not coming and give your spot in the class to someone on the waiting list. MLP sets the
tone for the entire Ross leadership and social experience.

Q: What are sections?
A: As an incoming MBA1, you will be assigned to one of six sections. Each section has
approximately 70 people in it, and you will attend almost all of your "core" classes
(introductory classes in marketing, corporate strategy, business economics, etc.) with your
section mates. In most cases you will have to attend core classes with your section,
although in rare instances (because of interviews, emergencies, etc.), and with a
professor's permission, you may be able to attend a given core class with another MBA1
section. A few core classes (such as finance) have open seating, and you can attend any of
a professor's lectures on a given day.
Classes

Q: Do I have a choice of classes?
A: No, unless you waive out of a class based on prior work experience or place out after
taking an aptitude test administered by the business school.

Q: Should I try to waive out of core classes?
A: That really depends on your prior work experience and your comfort level with certain
coursework. There's always a ton of hype in the air (and on the MichMBA group) about trying
to waive as many core classes as possible, but you shouldn't allow yourself to be swept up
in it (after all, if you already know everything taught in core classes, you probably made a
mistake applying to business school in the first place!). Many Michigan MBAs do not waive
out of any core classes, and this is perfectly normal and not a cause for any embarrassment.

Q: What is Qualitative Skills Workshop?
A. The Quantitative Skills Workshop (QSW) is designed to refresh the basic quantitative
tools essential for the successful completion of the Ross MBA Program. Typically about
40-50% of the incoming class participates in QSW.
QSW will be held Monday, August 22, 2005 through Wednesday, August 24, 2005. There is no
cost to enroll in QSW, but you must register by July 22, 2005. QSW has been fully-integrated
with all other pre-term events held during that week so that you will be able to fully
participate in all orientation and leadership development activities with other incoming
students.

Q: Do I have to register for classes?
A: In most cases, no, especially if you're not waiving out of any classes. The school
pre-registers all MBA1s and distributes schedules during MLP. MBA1s who have not waived out
of any core classes have one free elective, and this is in the Winter A term (immediately
following Christmas break). If you waived out of a core class and have holes to fill in
your schedule, you can choose classes and register for them via "Wolverine Access" once you
arrive at school.

Q: Can I take classes outside the business school?
A: Yes, although they generally must be graduate level courses in order to count toward
your diploma. There is also a limit to the number of classes you can take outside the
business school that count toward your MBA.

Q: When are holiday vacations and breaks?
A: See the Academic Calendar for details.

Q: Where do I go to buy books?
A: You have three "bricks and mortar" choices: Ulrich's (closest to the business school at
the corner of South University and East University), the Michigan Union Bookstore (run by
Barnes & Noble), or Michigan Book & Supply (located at the corner of State Street and North
University). All three stores have nearly identical prices. You can also purchase
textbooks over the Internet, but this is often inconvenient as many Michigan's Ross School
of Business students find that some professors' so-called "required" books are not truly
necessary and can be returned for refund. Some international students have found in the
past that foreign edition versions of Michigan's Ross School of Business textbooks are
available at substantially reduced prices in English-speaking countries abroad (particularly
Hong Kong and India).

Q: What are course materials?
A: Course Materials are collections of photocopied cases, articles, and other items that
generally constitute the bulk of the required reading for classes. They can range from just
a few pages to several hundred pages in length. You can stand in line and purchase them
from the course materials office in the basement of the business school's Davidson Hall, or
you can order them via the web and then pick them up from the course materials office (or
pay extra to have them shipped to you). Be aware that course materials can be quite
expensive (up to $175 in some cases because of copyright royalties and other fees) so be
sure to bring a credit card, check, or plenty of cash with you.

Q: Where can I find student course evaluation data from past years?
A: Course evaluations submitted by past students are available at the circulation desk at
Kresge Library. They can be extremely helpful when it comes time to pick first year
elective(s) and your second year courses.

Q: Where can I find course syllabi?
A: There's a binder on the Kresge Library circulation desk that contains a syllabus for
just about every class at the b-school. This binder can also be a valuable resource when
you're picking classes

Health/Insurance

Q: What health care options are there at the U of M?
A: University Health Service generally gets high marks from students for quality of care.

Q: Can I get health or dental insurance?
A: Yes. See http://www.uhs.umich.edu/insurbill/insurancestud.html for health insurance or
http://www.rackham.umich.edu/StudentInfo/MDENT.html for dental insurance. The health plan
is sponsored by the Michigan Student Assembly and is what most students choose if they don't
already have health insurance. It is comprehensive and is very reasonably priced.

Q: What about temporary gap-filler health insurance?
A: There are a number of temporary insurance plans available for students who need
coverage before the U of M insurance begins (usually in late August). For example, see the
Fortis Insurance site at https://www.etdbw.com/fh/stm/servlet/main for information (many
students have used Fortis in the past). You may also be eligible for COBRA health insurance
coverage from your most recent employer (although you will have to pay the premiums).

Q: What immunizations are required to attend Michigan?
A: For information on what immunizations Michigan recommends, see the University Health
Service page at http://www.uhs.umich.edu/students/immunization.html. The U of M is
reportedly considering requiring international students to undergo tuberculosis (TB)
screening once they arrive in Ann Arbor. Check with your current insurance provider for
details about coverage.

Q: Do immunization forms need to be submitted prior to registering for classes?
A: Students are not required to submit immunization forms before they can register for classes. 
However, it is the preference of the University Health Service that students submit these forms
at their earliest convenience.  If you have further questions you can visit the UHS site for immunizations. 

Shopping and Personal

Q: Where are stores in Ann Arbor?
A: Here's a listing of stores (and their locations) you may want to visit as you get
settled in to Ann Arbor.
All the grid square locations listed are on the Ann Arbor city map on the back side of the
Off-Campus Housing Map (in other words, not the side that says "Campus Map"). If you don't
have an Off-Campus Housing Map and want one, e-mail housing@umich.edu and request that one
be sent to you. Stores listed below are roughly grouped by geographic proximity to each
other.
U of M Property Disposition (desks, laser printers) - 3241 Baxter Road (North Campus) - C6
Recycle Ann Arbor (furniture, lamps, tons of other stuff) - 2420 South Industrial Highway -
F4
CVS (drug store) - 1700 South Industrial Highway - F4
Kroger (grocery store) - 1919 South Industrial Highway - F4
TJ Maxx - Maple Road & Jackson Road (Westgate Shopping Mall) - D1
Treasure Mart Add link http://www.treasuremart.com/ - 529 Detroit Street - D3
Kiwanis Saturday Rummage Sale http://www.aakiwanis.org/aboutaak.htm - 200 South 1st Street
- D3
Aaron's Furniture Rental - 4659 Washtenaw Avenue (east of US 23)- F7
Cort Furniture Rental at the following link http://www.cort1.com/ -341 E. Liberty – East of
Main St., West of State St. – D2

OfficeMax - 3765 Washtenaw Avenue - F7
Futon & Mattress Shoppe - 4563 Washtenaw Avenue (east of US 23) - F7

Bed, Bath, & Beyond - Washtenaw Avenue & US 23 (Arborland Mall) - F6
Marshall's - Washtenaw Avenue & US 23 (Arborland Mall) - F6
Circuit City - Washtenaw Avenue & US 23 (Arborland Mall) - F6
Border's - Washtenaw Avenue & US 23 (Arborland Mall) - F6
Hiller's (grocery store) - Washtenaw Avenue & US 23 (Arborland Mall) - F6
Best Buy - 3100 Lohr Road - G2
Kohl's - 3160 Lohr Road (next to Best Buy) - G2
CompUSA - 3140 Lohr Road (next to Best Buy) - G2
Meijer (similar to K-Mart with a grocery store) - 3145 Saline Road (next to Best Buy) - G2
Target - 2000 West Waters Road (across from Best Buy Plaza) - F2
OfficeMax - 2777 Oak Valley Drive (across from Best Buy Plaza) - F2
Home Depot - 3300 Carpenter Road - G6
Target - 3749 Carpenter Road - G6
TJ Maxx - 3158 Carpenter Road (next to Home Depot) - G6
Staples - 3120 Carpenter Road (next to Home Depot) - G6
Meijer (similar to K-Mart with a grocery store) - 3825 Carpenter Road - G7
Lowe's (home improvement) - Carpenter & Ellsworth (across from Meijer) - G6
Wal-Mart - 2535 Ellsworth Road - H8
Art Van Furniture - 435 East Eisenhower Parkway (near State) - F3
Office Depot - 800 West Eisenhower Parkway (across from Briarwood Mall) - F3
ABC Warehouse (electronics and appliances) - 890 Eisenhower Parkway (across from Briarwood
Mall) - F3
Marshall Field's (upscale department store - formerly Hudson's) - State Street & I-94
(Briarwood Mall) - G3
Sears - State Street & I-94 (Briarwood Mall) - G3
JC Penney - State Street & I-94 (Briarwood Mall) - G3
Murray's Auto Parts http://www.murraysdiscount.com - 2182 West Stadium Boulevard - E2
U.S. Post Office - 2075 West Stadium Boulevard - D2
U.S. Post Office - 1214 South University Avenue - D4
University of Michigan Parking Services - 508 Thompson Street - D4
Ulrich's Bookstore - 549 East University Avenue - D4
Michigan Union Bookstore (Barnes & Noble) - 530 South State Street - D4 Michigan Book and
Supply - 317 South State Street - D4

Q: Are there outlet malls around?

A: Yes. For those who don't know, factory outlet malls are shopping centers where
merchants such as Nike, Levi's, the Gap, Bose, Black & Decker, etc. offer their products at
a discount. Some of the merchandise is factory refurbished, some is slightly imperfect, and
some of it is overstock or returned from retailers. Outlet malls can offer good buys, but
in some cases really not much better than those found and regular department stores and
other local merchants when they have sales. It pays to know what you want before you go and
to have some idea of what's a good price on a given item. Prime Outlets
http://www.primeoutlets.com/cntrdefault.asp?cntrid=1015 is in Birch Run, Michigan, 75
miles/70 minutes north of Ann Arbor on I-75. Tanger Outlet, www.tangeroutlet.com/ is in
Howell, Michigan, 35 miles/45 minutes northwest of Ann Arbor on I-96. Great Lakes Crossing
is in Auburn Hills, Michigan, about an hour away. Of the four outlet malls mentioned, Great
Lakes Crossing in Auburn Hills is largest and is quite nice. Prime Outlets in Birch Run is
also large and offers a good shopping experience.
Q: Are there other stores worth visiting?
A: Yes. Cabela's http://www.cabelas.com/ outdoor outfitters in Dundee, Michigan is about
25 miles/30 minutes south of Ann Arbor on US 23. It has an enormous store with camping,
hunting, and other outdoor and foul weather gear (if you don't have a winter coat, it's
definitely worth a visit). Cabela's also has an incredible collection with dozens of
stuffed animals from all corners of the earth and an enormous walk-through fish tank -- both
of these displays are very popular with children if you have them. If you're looking for a
really nice mall that's a bit larger and more upscale than Ann Arbor's Briarwood Mall, try
the Somerset Collection in Troy, Michigan, about an hour northeast of Ann Arbor.

Q: Where are the best places to buy U of M apparel?
A: The three major textbook stores in Ann Arbor (Ulrich's, the Michigan Union Bookstore,
and Michigan Book & Supply) carry a lot of U of M merchandise. Moe Sport Shops (at 902
South State Street or 711 North University Avenue) also has a terrific selection of U of M
stuff. You can also try the "M-Den" at Michigan Stadium or at Briarwood Mall, or JC Penney
or Sears at Briarwood Mall.

Q: What clothing do I need to bring to Ann Arbor?
For Men: It's important for men to have at least one good conservatively-styled,
well-fitting suit for interviews and for final MAP/IMAP presentations. This means a dark
blue or dark gray, preferably single-breasted, two-button, and 100% wool. Invest in a good
pair of quality leather shoes (preferably black lace up) with leather (not rubber) soles,
and a quality black solid leather belt (the color of your belt and shoes should always be
the same). If you don't have a silk tie that's less than a couple of style seasons old, buy
yourself one with a conservative pattern. Also get a blue or white all-cotton dress shirt
(you can get great dress shirts at great prices with a variety of collar styles from Lands'
End. You should always wear a plain white undershirt with sleeves under your dress shirt.
There are even more specific recommendations concerning men's suits for those who interview
with investment banks: no double breasted suits, very conservative tie color, no dress
shirts with button-down collars.
For Women:
Attire guidelines for women are very close to those for men. Women from Europe should pay
attention to this (because it's rather different from what most are used to). Suits should
be conservative. This means dark colors (blue, gray, black), a medium-length (knee-length)
skirt, mostly natural color (light tan or light beige) or sheer stockings and a light color
blouse. Your skirt and jacket should be part of a suit and cannot be of different colors. No
bright colors either. As is the case for men, these guidelines are especially strict for
those who will be interviewing with investment banks. You have plenty of time to get
yourself prepared (and there are stores in Ann Arbor at Briarwood Mall where you can
purchase business clothing if you don't have it), so don't worry.
For Social Occasions:
The only real occasion during the year when you might wish to have formal evening wear is
the Winter Formal, which is held in December and is sponsored by UMBSA (the University of
Michigan Business Students Association). The event is black-tie optional, which means men
wear tuxedos or business suits and women wear evening gowns or cocktail dresses. If you are
an international student and have traditional formal wear from your home country(for
example, Asian women with traditional silk gowns), by all means please bring it and help
your fellow students celebrate the school's international diversity.
For Class:
There is no dress requirement for attending class. Blue jeans are fine, as are suits (on
days when you have interviews) or business casual.
For Corporate Presentations:
Business casual is the rule for most afternoon corporate presentations, so khakis and
business/golf shirts are generally fine (notable exception: the Harley Davidson recruiting
presentation when they drive motorcycles into the building and jeans and boots are deemed
completely acceptable). Suits are sometimes appropriate for evening presentations, and are
generally required for corporate dinners that recruiters might invite you to attend.
In General:
You won't be throwing away money on any clothing items you purchase, as you'll need them
regularly throughout your career. In general, a bit of extra money spent to get
higher-quality apparel items pays major dividends in terms of longevity and in terms of the
impression you make. If price is a concern for you, wait for a department store sale as
there are always substantial savings (25% or more) available for those who are patient.
Don't be afraid to ask around for advice on where or when or how to shop (the business
school's Office of Career Development or other students can give you some good advice), as
there are many people who've never before had to buy dress clothing for interviews, etc.

Other Information

Q: Is Ann Arbor a safe town?
A: Yes, Ann Arbor is a safe for the most part. However, common sense dictates that you
take the same precautions that would be applicable anywhere such as walking only in well-lit
areas at night, locking your dwelling and vehicle, and reporting suspicious persons to the
police. Always lock your doors and windows at night or when you're not home, and never
leave valuables unattended.

Q: What is Michigan's "Scanner Law?"
A: The state of Michigan has a law concerning accuracy of scanners used at retail store
check-out counters. In a nutshell, the law states that if a clerk at a retail store scans a
price of an item and the price in the store's computer system is higher than the price
marked on the item (prices are required by Michigan law to be marked on almost every item in
a store) or the shelf price, you are entitled to the amount of the overcharge plus a bonus
of 10 times the amount of the overcharge, up to a maximum $5 bonus. In most cases, you must
complete your transaction (in other words pay for your merchandise), discover the overcharge
as documented on the receipt, and then request a price adjustment and bonus. In other
words, if you alert the clerk to an incorrect price while your order is still being rung up,
you'll likely get a price adjustment but you won't receive the bonus.
Q: Where can I do my laundry?
A: Mr. Stadium http://www.mrstadium.com/ is a popular coin-operated laundry facility and
is located on South Industrial Highway next to the Colonial Lanes bowling alley. Washing
machine prices are reduced on Wednesdays. Commercial dry-cleaning establishments are
located around Ann Arbor and can clean business suits and dresses.
Student Services
Q: Where can I mail a letter at Michigan's Ross School of Business
A: Drop boxes for U.S. Mail, UPS Air, FedEx Air, and DHL Air are located on the business
school loading dock, which is down the hall from the Dean's office in Davidson Hall across
from room D1210. To send a package via regular surface mail, visit the U.S. Post Office at
1214 South University Avenue.
For what it's worth, you should avoid leaving mail (especially mail containing checks or
bill payments) in open drop boxes (in other words, the kind that don't "swallow" your
letters so other people can't get at them) in apartment building lobbies and elsewhere.
This is because thieves can use information on a check or bank statement to try to withdraw
money from your bank account or cause you other kinds of difficulty.

Q: Is there a fax machine I can use at Michigan's Ross School of Business?
A: Yes. There is a fax machine in the upper computer lab, room K1410. There is no charge
for local transmissions, however, you must have a telephone credit card or pre-paid calling
card to send long-distance faxes. You may also receive faxes at the machine -- its number
is (734) 647-4154. You will not be alerted to incoming faxes sent to you, so you should be
sure to check the machine regularly if you are expecting a document.

Q: When should I book hotel reservations for my friends and family for graduation weekend?
A: Graduation weekend reservations should be booked a few days less than one year in
advance -- this is because most hotels' reservations systems can only book 365 days ahead.
Ann Arbor hotel space sells out very quickly for commencement weekend, and those who do not
book within a few days after reservations become available are often forced to stay many
miles away in Ypsilanti or even at the Detroit airport.

Things to Do
Following is a list of attractions that have proven quite popular with past Michigan
Students.
The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is very popular with children.
The University Musical Society brings a tremendous array of world-class artistic
presentations to Ann Arbor each year. Special student rate tickets are usually available.
Mackinac Island is 285 miles/6 hours north of Ann Arbor on I-75.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is about 266 miles/5 hours northwest of Ann Arbor in
Empire, Michigan.
The Detroit Zoo is considered one of the best in the U.S. and is located on I-696 in Royal
Oak, Michigan.
Cabela's http://www.cabelas.com/ outdoor outfitters in Dundee, Michigan has an enormous
store with dozens of animals from all over the world and a walk-through fish tank. It's
especially popular with kids if you have them. It's about 25 miles/30 minutes south of Ann
Arbor on US 23.
Hiram Walker Distillery is located just over the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor, Ontario,
about 60 minutes away. They offer free daily tours of their distilling and bottling
operation.
Greenfield Village and Henry Ford Museum are terrific attractions located in Dearborn,
Michigan, about 30 minutes east on I-94 at M-39.
Algoma Central Railway leaves from Sault St. Marie, Ontario, which is about 330 miles/6.5
hours north of Ann Arbor. It goes several hundred miles north into Canada among
breathtaking scenery. Trips run year-round.
A number of Detroit auto barons' homes survive as museums and are great fun to tour. Among
them are the Fisher Mansion (of GM/Fisher Body fame), the Dodge Estate, the Henry Ford
Estate, and the Edsel and Eleanor Ford Home. The ornate lobby of the Fisher Building in
downtown Detroit is also a wonderful tribute to American automotive prowess and is well
worth seeing.
The Motown Museum is located at 2648 West Grand Boulevard in Detroit.
Other Detroit area attractions is a comprehensive list compiled by Greenfield Village.

Student Clubs
Q: How do I start a club?
A: It is easy to start a club. Check out the information on the Student Government
Association (SGA) Website or contact the Office of Student Life at studentlife@bus.umich.edu

International

A. What are the Visa Guidelines
Q. Review I-20 and visa guidelines. Prepare documents as required. Many countries
require documentation and an interview prior to leaving the country. Review your country’s
specific guidelines.
Q. Where do I find information for International Students
A. Become familiar with the information provided by the University of Michigan
International Center (www.umich.edu/~icenter). You will likely find most of the answers to
your questions either at the site or through one of the Center’s knowledgeable staff.

Q.Where do I find information about U.S. Customs and personal items.
A.Familiarize yourself with U.S. Customs guidelines for personal items that you wish to
bring into the country. The U.S. Customs website address is www.ins.usdoj.gov.

Networking

Q. Where is the best place to find information about Alumni
A. Explore Michigan’s Ross School of Business Alumni website

Q. Where do I find information about Alumni Clubs in my area.
A. http://www.bus.umich.edu/AlumniCommunity/AlumniClubs/