<p>WUSTL does not have a huge edge of Michigan in academics or undergraduate research opportunities - they are comparable in both aspects. Many people think that due to Michigan’s sheer undergraduate size makes it harder to get into contact with professors - that is simply not the case. Although more students may want to talk to the professors at the intro-level classes, that can be expected at universities all around the country. Most students don’t bother going to the professor’s office hours. In my experience, professor want students to come visit them (they get lonely)!</p>
<p>In terms of undergraduate research opportunities, I can speak about this for myself because I have been participating in research my entire experience here. UROP (undergraduate research opportunities program) is a major program here at UM. The university gets all sorts of endowments and funds from external sources so professors are always looking to bring in undergraduates to do work for them. The opportunities and exposure a student would get at Michigan rivals any other top-notch college. Saying that WUSTL has a major edge shows a lack of experience with other universities.</p>