Montana State University

With a world of possibilities, ranging from mountain climbing to outdoor clubs, Montana State University is a school that should be on your application list. Being Montana's largest and fastest-growing university, this school provides an incredibly diverse range of academics and extracurricular activities. “I have never been bored here. There is always something to do,” said Century graduate and MSU freshman Joe LaDuke.

Information

MSU is somewhat selective, having an acceptance rate of 80%, giving you little reason not to apply. It is the largest research entity in Montana, along with 250+ academic options available. Student interests are abundant as well, with 270+ registered student organizations available. 

Logan Mclaughlin, a freshman, expresses that her favorite club is Backcountry Squatters, an all-girls club that focuses on female involvement in outdoor activities. To comply with those who have athletics interests, MSU sponsors sports including football, basketball, ice hockey, and more, and the club is an NCAA Division I member institution. 

Bozeman

With a captivating view of the Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is a town rich with life and adventure and is the place to be. MSU Bobcat posters are everywhere, proving support. Downtown Bozeman swarms with people exploring popular restaurants and quirky shops. I tend to make my stop at Jam, a trendy café with amazing breakfast. 

Considering the culture and easy access to recreation, Bozeman is the perfect college town. 

History

MSU was established in 1893, four years after the state of Montana was founded. The university started with eight students which later blossomed into well over 16,000 in recent years. MSU contains five communities that spread into a total of 27 residence halls. 

College freshman, Emme Jackson, who lives in Roskie dorm explains that “the culture here, combined with the people, is just so welcoming.”  

Outdoor recreation

To say that outdoor lovers will thrive here is an understatement. MSU is ranked number one for outdoor sports and recreation in the US. 

Bozeman has “world-class skiing, hiking, biking, fly fishing and close proximity to Yellowstone National Park,” according to Montana.edu. Palisade falls, for example, is a simple 1.1 mile trail that brings you to an alluring waterfall. Another popular trail by MSU is the hike to the “M.” My experience started with an amazing view and ended with a few inches of snow. Given the freezing surprise, it was an experience like no other. Trails are just a single part of the multitude of options here. 

LaDuke says that he is “surprised by how much access to activities I have.” Anything outdoors at MSU is bound to be an exciting time. 

MSU gives you a surplus of opportunities and experiences that many other options won't be able to offer. The range of experiences you will have at the university is something that cannot be overlooked. As Maura Michels, from Philadelphia, said, “Every person is adventurous and willing to do anything.”