Before MacLaren's and NYC brought them together, your favorite “How I Met Your Mother” friends took on college in the Mitten State! Each character is a little different, and would thrive at different Michigan universities. Here’s how it would go down if your favorite HIMYM characters took on school in the Great Lakes State:

Ted Mosby: University of Michigan

Ted Mosby is an intellectual and would not be found at any other institution other than The University of Michigan. Ted studies architecture and spends most of his time at local cafes discussing culture, destiny, and “The Universe”. Ted’s dream is to design a building that will one day stand tall on the U of M campus. Even though Ted enjoys the finer things in life, he can often be found enjoying a night out with his friends at Rick’s. Ted never misses an opportunity to tell his friends about his experiences at U of M, and while they normally groan outwardly, they all secretly recognize that he is one of the best.

Barney Stinson: Central Michigan University

Barney Stinson is always looking for a good time and a good time can always be found at Central Michigan University. Barney is suited up wherever he goes, whether it be a Chippewa tailgate or a night out at Wayside. Barney spends his time playing laser tag and picking up girls around campus. A CMU football game wouldn’t be the same without Barney yelling “Fire - wait - for - it - Up” before kick off. Think you’re having more fun than Barney at Central? Challenge accepted.

Robin Scherbatsky: Northern Michigan University

The outdoorsy feel of Northern Michigan University in Marquette makes Robin Scherbatsky feel like she is back at home in Canada. Her father sent her to Northern hoping she wouldn’t lose her boyish charm. Even though Robin is studying to be a new anchor, she tries to fly under the radar so she is not recognized as “Robin Sparkles.” Robin spends most of her time exploring the UP with her dogs or at the ice rink supporting her Wildcat hockey team.

Marshall Eriksen: Western Michigan University

Marshall ‘Judge Fudge’ Eriksen is a laid back, small town guy who loves football, food, and good ole’ Mother Nature. It should be no surprise that Marshall goes to Western Michigan University where he is pre-law. Marshall hopes to attend Cooley Law School when he finishes his undergrad. Marshall spends a lot of his time during the week studying at the library and working his shifts at the Sustainability Office. On the weekends, Marshall can be found at every Bronco tailgate having a good time with his friends and enjoying a few… sandwiches.

Lily Aldrin: Michigan State University

Lily Aldrin studies Elementary Education at Michigan State University, but spends most of her time creating and admiring art in the Lansing area. Lily is creative, spunky, and loyal, which makes Michigan State the perfect fit for her. She spends a lot of her time canvas painting at local coffee shops where she secretly hopes to meet a nice Cooley lawyer. Everything that Lily does, she gives 110% to, whether that be her art, her studies, applying some good ole’ Aldrin Justice, or pre-gaming any and every Spartan sporting event.