Last week, the "Huffington Post" wrote an article about the happiest students in the country as ranked by the Princeton Review. The list ranked schools based on responses from more than 100,000 students at 380 colleges and universities. There was just one problem with the list: CMU was nowhere to be found. That’s right, Central Michigan University did not make the list of the top 20 schools with the happiest students. So proud Chippewas, here are a few reasons why we are the true happiest students in the country.
Home away from home: Central Michigan University is a home away from home for many of its students. There is warmth about the campus that is hard to find anywhere else. Ever hear the saying “big campus with a small campus feel?” No school matches that description more than CMU. The school feels large enough to offer endless opportunities, yet a person can walk across campus with ease. You can also count on seeing a mix of friendly faces and new faces on your way to class.
Work and play balance: One of the main reasons CMU students should hold the title of “happiest students” around is their ability to balance school and fun. In fact, Chips have mastered this. Not only are CMU students driven and dedicated to their studies, they also know when to set down the textbook and enjoy the weekend (or Tuesday Pint Night). Chippewas are the kings and queens of grinding during the week and making the weekend one to never forget.
“FIRE UP!”: No matter where you are, if you are sporting CMU gear, you can count on someone shouting, “Fire up Chips!” Ain’t no pride like Chippewa pride!
Academics: CMU is known for many of its academic programs. CMU students are given many opportunities to learn and get involved. Not only is the faculty fantastic, they go above and beyond to make sure their students succeed. CMU is a school that makes you work but also appreciates the work you are doing.
Main Street: If you’re a Chip, you know exactly where Main Street is. You know how they say Disney World is the “happiest place on earth?" Yeah, we here in Mt. Pleasant beg to differ. Main is the place to be on a weekend night, and if you’re lucky enough to live on the street or have a friend on the street, you know a Main Street porch is not to be taken for granted. While the street is great all year long, check it out on a tailgate day in the fall—Main at its prime.
The food: Mt. Pleasant may be a small city, but it doesn’t slack in the food department. The constant temptation of food makes it hard for the Freshman 15 to not turn into the Senior 60. Classics include Cabin Sticks (!!) and pizza from the Cabin, Burgers from the Bird, Stan’s breakfast, Dog Central, anything from Italian Oven or Blue Gator and last but certainly not least, JESUS DOGS!
Location, location, location: CMU is conveniently located in mid-Michigan. This means that many people have a similar commute to school. Most Chips will explain that their commute is “around two hours,” AKA, the perfect distance from home. Our school is close enough to return home when needed but far enough to maintain our independence. As the happiest students on earth, it’s no coincidence that our school is found in the heart of Michigan.
Maroon and Gold, baby: Our school colors are the same as Gryffindor, AKA, the best house within Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Enough said.
The friendliest squirrels you ever will meet: No, the screaming preacher isn’t the only campus celebrity. Not only are CMU students the happiest, our campus is home to the friendliest squirrels on the planet. How many college students can say their campus’ squirrels give off good vibes? Yeah, that’s what I thought. There is also a Twitter account dedicated to these campus standouts @CMUSquirrel!
Endless opportunities: CMU students are provided with endless opportunities to get involved. Not only are there a ton of clubs to join, there are also Greek organizations, club sports, and volunteer opportunities like Special Olympics!
Wayside: Yes, Wayside was mentioned already. However, this magical place deserves a shout-out of its own. If you are a Chip, you at least have one memory from Wayside (even if it is a little foggy). Because let’s face it, aren’t we all our best selves here? So thank you, Wayside, for making Tuesday nights so special and for being the setting for some of the best bathroom heart-to-hearts with complete strangers.
The people: Bottom line, the people here at CMU are some of the nicest people you will ever meet. It’s no coincidence that a lot of students meet life-long friends here. Also, Chips were ranked #7 on Buzzfeed’s list of hottest party schools (just sayin’).
At the end of the day, it doesn't matter if we made the list or not...we know the truth!
FIRE UP CHIPS!
