What Students are Saying about their UM-Flint Experience

An overwhelming number of students at the University of Michigan-Flint say they are satisfied with their overall educational experience. A national survey found that 85% of First Year students reported a favorable image of the university and 79% of seniors who responded would choose UM-Flint again if they could start their college career over.

Last spring, over 750 UM-Flint students participated in the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE). In the survey, the students were asked to reflect on the time they devote to various learning activities. Besides providing prospective students with insights into how they might learn and develop at a given college, the survey provides university officials with information to help set future goals.

Some of the other survey findings cover Academic Challenge, Active Learning, Student-Faculty Interaction, Enriching Educational Experience and Supportive Campus Environment:

A. 84% of first year students feel that UM-Flint places substantial emphasis on academics.

B. 71% of first year students feel that this university has a substantial commitment to their academic success.

C. First year students report substantial emphasis on the following activities:

a. Analyzing basic elements of an idea or theory: 74%

b. Making judgments about value of information: 68%

c. Applying theories or concepts: 68%

D. 54% of first year students say the frequently have serious conversations with students who are different than themselves in terms of their religion, political, or personal beliefs.

E. 53% of first year students frequently have serious conversations with those of a different race.

F. 52% of first year students say the work harder than they thought they could to meet faculty expectations.

G. 50% of first year students say their faculty are available.

Among seniors, the survey found:

A. 82% positively rated their relationship with faculty

B. 80% of seniors at least occasionally discuss career plans with faculty.

C. 79% asked questions/contributed to class discussions.

D. 60% positively rated their relationships with administrative personnel and offices.

E. 52% said the institution substantially encourages contacts among diverse peers.

F. By their senior year, 50% of students have participated in some form internship, field experience, co-op, or clinical assignment.

G. By the time they are seniors, 50% of students have participated in community service or volunteer work.

The National Survey of Student Engagement is really a report card from our students. It gives us good ideas of what they feel are our strengths and also weaknesses," said Interim UM-Flint Chancellor Jack Kay. "We must listen to what they are saying and continue building on our strong areas and place a renewed emphasis on those areas that could use improvement.