Student success in August 

As summer winds down and Spartans head back to school, stories of student success have emerged, from autonomous racing wins to students, faculty and alumni playing “Victory for MSU” with classroom instruments. As students return to campus, take a look at the stories that unfolded at MSU in August.

Bridges to success: Introducing new Spartans to life at MSU

Each year, around 11,000 incoming and transfer students start their journey at Michigan State University, and no two will have the same experience. For many, it’s their first time living away from home or navigating a campus the size of a small city. To help new Spartans feel ready from day one, MSU has bridge and transition programs that offer a powerful first step.

MSU autonomous racing team takes first place at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

Team Polimove-MSU is a collaboration between Michigan State University, Politecnico di Milano, with the University of Alabama, took first place at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca event in California as part of the Indy Autonomous Challenge, or IAC.

Student view: Study abroad in Spain prepared me for MSU

Adam Sargent is an incoming first-year student from Big Rock, Illinois. He recently traveled to Spain with MSU’s First-Year Seminars Abroad program prior to coming to campus for his first semester in East Lansing.

Spartans play ‘Victory for MSU’ on classroom instruments

Recently, a group of Spartan students, faculty and alumni from the College of Music got together to perform a version of the beloved tune using classroom instruments we all remember from grade school — recorders, xylophones and slide whistles — and turned them into something unforgettable. No sheet music. No rehearsal. Just serious music skills and Spartans Will.

Student view: Financial aid opened the door to engineering and opportunity

Malachi Keener was born and raised in Lansing, Michigan. He is currently entering his third year as a doctoral student in electrical engineering at MSU, with an expected graduation in May 2028. His parents worked hard and put themselves through college using grants and financial aid while also working and raising a family. They always stressed the importance of school, and observing their perseverance inspired him to pursue as many educational opportunities as he could.