<p>I'm not sure if I should apply. Schools that I really really like are Columbia and Yale. Here is essentially what I'm looking for in a college</p>
<ul>
<li>intellectual drive</li>
<li>a good biology program, but not a science-based college (I want a good education in the humanities also)</li>
<li>a homey atmosphere, good sense of community in the college</li>
<li>stuff to do (not necassarily near a city, but I don't want to be studying 24/7)</li>
<li>at least a decent music program</li>
<li>active college community (lots of involvement in stuff other than studying)</li>
<li>college where greek life is not too heavy</li>
<li>teachers who actually talk/interact with students and encourage them outside of class (ie discussions), but not necassarily something as intimate that can be found at a LAC. in other words, prfos who actually care about their students and are not at the college just for their research</li>
<li>undergrad research opportunities</li>
<li>has a med school or/and hospital nearby</li>
</ul>
<p>so what does u mich fit and what doesn't it fit?</p>
<p>well I will tell you that greek life is very heavy, for someone that's not interested in that it is hard to find alternative things to do. even if you choose not to pledge most social events occur at frats, so it will be more of a challenge to find things to do. My teachers for the most part have been caring, but for at least the first year you will be taking classes from GSI's. I think that michigan fits the other things you are looking for.</p>
<p>It does have a good music program, but I've always wondered if it's the kind of thing a non-major could take courses in. I've heard of some schools where they had a world-class music school but if you weren't admitted to that particular music school, forget trying to continue your instrument. Is that true at Michigan? I really don't know. I know the Michigan Marching Band is made up of all sorts, not just music students, but as for courses in the music school? It would be something to check out.</p>
<p>I know there are pianos everywhere--one of my friends plays piano to de-stress, and there were always numerous places he could go bang on some keys.</p>
<p>Michigan sounds like a really good fit. The greek life is kind of heavy, but nothing that you can't get around. I haven't done anything greek-related while I've been here and I'm still having an awesome time.</p>
<p>If you are questioning whether you want to go to the school before you even apply, and have to ask someone if you should apply there, then your heart isn't into it, and I wouldn't recommend applying here.</p>
<p>Nerdatheart, Michigan is a good fit for you. Profs at Michigan are definitely present and willing to talk to students. All you need to do is show interest and take the initiative. Profs at Columbia and Yale are no different. </p>
<p>And guys, Greek life at Michigan is not "heavy". It is very present and significant, but not heavy. Fewer than a quarter of the students belong to Freternities or Sororities. I almost never went to frat parties and I had a great social life with lots of offerings.</p>