I received my bachelor's degree from U of M. I absolutely loved both the school and Ann Arbor! Ann Arbor has amazing food and a great nightlife! One of my friends told me that Ann Arbor was voted the best town for singles. I've neither seen nor heard that from anyone/ anywhere else but I can believe it!
Michigan is a wonderful school! I graduated in 2011 and I still meet with my academic advisor. The professors sincerely care about the students. Michigan is a research school so most professors do research outside of teaching which means that they are accessible because they are always at the school. I had no problem attaining reference letters for SOPHAS because I formed great relationships with so many of my professors. Most professors hold office hours like 3 times a week with accessible times, host dinners at their homes, and invite students to meet them for lunch which is why many students become well acquainted with their professors (I think this is important for MPH students who want to continue school to obtain an additional master's or PhD). One thing that concerns me about Columbia is that the professors actually work in the field (which is a positive in terms of networking but not so great in terms of professors getting to know students outside of class). If I had not attended Michigan for undergrad and if I enjoyed snow and this snowpocalypse, I would choose Michigan.
SN: For all of the prospective Michigan students: Football Saturdays at Michigan are amazing! Grad students DO attend Michigan football games and prepare to be obsessed with Michigan football!