Hi! I'm Niti, a sophomore at the University of Michigan studying Economics with a minor in Computer Science. One of my favorite things about Michigan is that no two students have the same experience, and I love helping prospective students discover what theirs could look like. Whether you're curious about academics, clubs, research, recruiting, dining halls, football Saturdays, or simply what everyday life here actually feels like, I'm happy to answer honestly. Outside the classroom, I've worked in consulting, venture capital, startups, research, and TEDx, while also leading community initiatives focused on education and mental health. Those experiences have helped me explore many different parts of campus, so I enjoy showing visitors not only the iconic landmarks, but also the places students actually spend their time. I remember how overwhelming college decisions can feel, and my goal is to make your visit personal, relaxed, and genuinely useful. Feel free to ask me anything. I promise there are no bad questions!

Hometown

Mumbai, India

Major(s)

Economics, Biology, Health and Society, Psychology, Politics, Philosophy and Economics, BBA

Minor(s)

Computer Science, Ross Minor

Clubs, organizations & involvement

TEDx UofM, Michigan Aeronautical Space Association, Society for Women in Economics, Michigan Business Women, Indian American Student Association

Describe your college experience

Moving from India to Michigan was exciting, but it also came with a steep learning curve. Like many international and out-of-state students, I experienced homesickness and had to adjust to being completely independent, which included everything from doing laundry to figuring out what medicine to take at 2 A.M. when I got sick. Ironically, that difficult moment became the first time Michigan truly felt like home. When I was sick during my first semester, I texted my neighbors for some medicine and they showed up with medicine, food from the dining hall, and comfort, checking in on me without hesitation. What has surprised me most since then is the culture here. I expected a highly competitive environment, but instead found one that is incredibly collaborative. People are ambitious, yet genuinely willing to help one another succeed competing together instead of against each other. I've also loved how Michigan encourages exploration. Since arriving, I've been able to pursue interests in consulting, startups, venture capital, research, TEDx, and student organizations. This wasn't because I had every qualification, but because I was willing to ask questions and take initiative. This is what I appreciate most about Michigan. There are countless opportunities, and if you're curious enough to seek them out, people are remarkably willing to help you grow.

Tip for future students

Don't come to Michigan thinking you need to have your entire future planned out. Some of my favorite experiences have come from opportunities I never expected to pursue, simply because I decided to show up and give them a chance. The biggest piece of advice I'd give is to be proactive. Michigan has an incredible number of resources, but they won't always find you. You have to be willing to reach out, attend that first meeting, introduce yourself, and ask questions. You'll be surprised by how many people genuinely want to help. Finally, remember that college isn't just about building a resume. It's about building a life. Go to the football games, spend late nights in the UgLi, throw a Frisbee on the Law Quad when the weather is nice, and make time for the people around you. Those are often the moments you'll remember most.

Favorite class

Surprisingly, my favorite class at Michigan has been English 125. While it fulfilled my first-year writing requirement, it became much more than a writing class. Instead of simply teaching us how to write, it challenged us to think critically about issues shaping today's world from AI-generated media and misinformation to current events and ethics. My professor created an environment where curiosity mattered more than having the "right" answer, encouraging thoughtful discussion and rewarding intellectual risk-taking (that was a criteria in our grading rubric and allowed my team members and I to write a literature review on the lizard people). I left every class seeing the world a little differently, and it reminded me that the best education isn't just about learning new information but rather about learning how to think.

Career goals

Consulting or Product Management

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal free night is a simple one. Grabbing dinner with friends downtown, walking back through the Diag, and ending up in the UgLi after 10 p.m. when it somehow becomes equal parts study space and social hub. If the weather's nice, we'll probably stop by the Law Quad for a game of football, frisbee, or just to enjoy being outside. Whether we're playing board games in someone's common room or staying up far too late filming a music video after going out, I've realized it's never really about what we're doing but rather the people I'm with. Those spontaneous evenings have become some of my favorite memories at Michigan.

High school or secondary school

Dhirubhai Ambani International School (~ 2% acceptance rate)

Favorite spot on campus

UgLi (Undergraduate Library)