When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ypsilanti with a group of friends or family, consider
Washtenaw Community College
Why Washtenaw Community College is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Washtenaw Community College (WCC), located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, stands out as a distinguished community college offering high-quality, accessible, and affordable education to a diverse student population. Founded in 1965 and situated on a spacious 285-acre campus, WCC has expanded to enroll over 18,000 credit students annually, including learners from more than 100 countries. The college serves as an open-door institution, welcoming all individuals eager to pursue academic or career advancement within a nurturing and supportive environment. WCC provides a broad range of programs across more than 130 certificates and degrees spanning health, business, culinary arts, communications, manufacturing, and IT, among others. Its unique offerings include strong trade and technical programs such as cybersecurity and automotive technology, characterized by hands-on learning and instruction from experienced professionals. WCC’s commitment to affordability, combined with excellent transfer pathways like the "3-1 program" facilitating smooth transitions to four-year universities, makes it an ideal gathering place for students beginning or redirecting their educational journeys. Beyond academics, the campus provides a peaceful, green setting near a lake, fostering a relaxing atmosphere for study and social connection. Student services such as tutoring, career counseling, and support for low-income and single-parent students contribute greatly to the welcoming and inclusive culture at WCC, making it a great place to meet up with friends while advancing one’s education and professional goals.
Here's what people think of Washtenaw Community College
As of recent, Washtenaw Community College holds a 4.6-star rating based on 264 reviews.
Reviews consistently praise Washtenaw Community College for its affordability and academic quality. Many students highlight the exceptional dedication of professors who genuinely care about student success and offer engaging, practical instruction. The college’s extensive transfer programs are commended for enabling significant tuition savings and smooth transitions to state universities. Online students specifically appreciate well-structured virtual classes and flexibility, though some note variation based on instructors’ technological familiarity. The campus is noted for its accessibility, cleanliness, and safety, with ample resources including tutoring centers, career services, and quiet study spaces. Positive reviews emphasize WCC’s supportive environment, friendly staff, and the diverse range of course offerings that accommodate different career and academic needs. On the other hand, some criticisms appear around inconsistent online course maintenance, occasional parking difficulties, and a relatively quiet social scene with limited clubs and no sports teams, which might not appeal to students seeking a highly active campus life. Nonetheless, these minor drawbacks do not overshadow the overwhelmingly positive perception of WCC as a place that balances academic rigor with community support effectively. Overall, the reviews portray Washtenaw Community College as a commendable institution that helps students achieve their goals within a caring and resource-rich environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Megan Keast
Offers a variety of classes. Most professors are really good, kind, and help you succeed. Take David Erwin and Michael Quail (the older one) if you're going into Math. The campus is very well maintained, lots of parking, and there are a lot of different programs to help your career. There aren't very many clubs and the social scene isn't very active, but I guess that's good if you're an introvert. The application process and registering for classes is also very easy--just make sure you register for classes ASAP. Overall, a good school to go to (and much more affordable than universities).
Matthew Vancena/Talonwyldfire
A wide variety of degree and certificate programs for both academic and vocational. A very helpful staff is always willing to build the extra mile to help you achieve your goals.
Sieda Marion
I live an hour away I have been trying to get everything done since May 7th! All I have been trying to do is register for a virtual class and it has been so hard just to get admissions to look at my email and approve my transcripts from my previous college. I had to call multiple times because the email response was we don’t give unofficial transcripts but I was submitting mine! I submitted them on the 22nd and the class starts today I can’t believe this it is so annoying
Chawn Aray
Apologies for any triteness. Democracy runs well w an educated populace. A few hallmarks of a Democracy are; Quality of Life, Education, Freedoms and the Civil Rights of All. Universal Healthcare, Access, Education and Trades training, why not? If we are able to pay one man millions of dollars, then why not provide for millions of people? How often does corporate welfare, “trickle down” and subsidies to huge corporations translate into savings? Educated, critically thinking humans are one goal and Community Colleges are gateways and answers to improving and increasing Democratic values. How naive, ignorant and misinformed I was as a young adult, to snub and look down on Community Colleges. As the decades passed and the Grace of wisdom was given to me, I began to realize the value of CC. Mistakes made can be the process in which we grow and improve, if those mistakes don’t kill you. Thus, Washtenaw Community College is packed full of the possibilities of enhancing the potentialities, aptitudes and visions, just as any institution of higher learning should be. The key: Higher Learning. Do not disparage the “in-district” resident’s ability to pay $95 a credit hour. Of course, the Big 10, Ivy League and others are prestigious and wonders to behold. Yet talent is talent and at times it all comes out in the wash. We are all in the mosaic of life. An accommodating student center, the Legendary Morris Lawrence w the Auditorium’s name in his honor and the music program still going strong. WCC offers countless resources, references and an ability to improve your life plan. A new career pathway, a hobby, a skill, a language- don’t break an arm or a leg, go into an easy transition, by becoming a WCC student and hold your head high.
Rosber Boone lll
Staff are the most respectful class of workers. Big Ups to all at WCC Ann Arbor , Michigan.
How to reach Washtenaw Community College
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Why Washtenaw Community College may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Washtenaw Community College with your friends? Washtenaw Community College (WCC), nestled in the vibrant Ann Arbor Charter Township, Michigan, is more than just a college—it is a welcoming space that combines educational resources, versatile venues, and a lively campus atmosphere ideal for friends and family gatherings. With a solid reputation demonstrated by a 4.6-star rating from 264 reviews, WCC offers expansive, free parking and an easily navigable campus that paves the way for hassle-free meetups. The campus's location between Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti makes it accessible by various transportation means, including public buses and bike trails, supporting diverse travel preferences. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day outdoors, an engaging cultural experience, or simply a place to catch up and create memories, Washtenaw Community College offers an enriching backdrop. Its sprawling green spaces and state-of-the-art buildings provide an inviting environment where groups can feel at ease to connect, learn, and enjoy numerous activities, making it an excellent rally point for social interaction and fun.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Washtenaw Community College with your friends? WCC hosts an impressive array of activities that cater to a wide range of interests for group gatherings. Visitors can engage in art exhibitions and theater performances hosted within its Crane Liberal Arts and Science building, which connects through an enclosed walkway to a large parking structure. These cultural events serve as perfect group activities to enjoy creativity and entertainment together. The college is highly regarded for its educational programs across many disciplines including business, healthcare, technology, and the arts, and often sponsors community enrichment classes that friends can attend alongside each other. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the campus features beautiful green spaces ideal for picnics and casual strolls, fostered by the Michigan climate and scenic surroundings. The college’s community centers, such as the Harriet Street Center and Parkridge Community Center nearby, provide additional venues for workshops, fitness classes, and social events, ideal for groups seeking more structured activities that combine learning and leisure.
Why is Washtenaw Community College a perfect place for group meetups? The campus offers a harmonious blend of space, accessibility, and event variety, creating a welcoming community hub for friends and family. Its 7 free parking lots, including a large 473-space enclosed garage, remove typical city parking stress, easing arrival for groups regardless of size. Moreover, WCC's proactive engagement with local businesses and organizations means that the campus frequently hosts public events, workshops, and festivals that naturally attract groups wanting to participate in shared experiences. The college’s comprehensive public safety measures ensure that visitors feel secure throughout their time on campus. Accessibility options, including multiple AAATA bus stops and ADA-compliant transportation services like A-Ride, accommodate all group members, ensuring inclusivity. The campus's strategic location along major transit routes enables flexible planning for meetups, whether you prefer driving, biking, or public transit, making WCC a convenient and adaptable destination for get-togethers.
How can Washtenaw Community College support special group occasions or celebrations? WCC’s campus layout and facilities offer the infrastructure needed to accommodate special events, from informal gatherings to celebrated occasions. The college’s buildings and community centers provide versatile indoor spaces suitable for workshops, presentations, or casual social events, while expansive outdoor areas offer ample room for picnics, lawn games, or even group fitness activities. Groups can capitalize on the college’s cultural programming and scheduled art and performance events to add an enriching element to their celebration. Additionally, the proximity to local businesses and eateries in Ann Arbor allows groups to complement their campus experience with dining and shopping excursions. For those interested in more formal arrangements or specific group activities, the Corporate Training and Lifelong Learning Department at WCC accepts proposals for community enrichment classes, allowing groups to design a shared learning experience tailored to their interests. This combination of resources and options makes WCC a flexible venue for a variety of group-oriented events.
What amenities and conveniences does WCC offer to enhance your meetup experience? Convenience and comfort are paramount at Washtenaw Community College, making your group’s visit pleasant and hassle-free. The campus provides free parking at multiple locations, including a sizable parking structure directly connected to key buildings, which is particularly beneficial for groups arriving by car. Public transportation access is ample, with multiple AAATA bus stops and specialized accessible transit services ensuring everyone in your group can participate. The campus also features student centers and lounges suitable for relaxing between activities or casual conversation. Dining options and vending areas are available on site for light meals and refreshments. Digital resources, including campus maps and real-time transit tracking, help visitors orient themselves and plan their day efficiently. The college’s dedication to inclusiveness is evident through its accessibility features, extensive program offerings, and community-centric events, all of which contribute to an enjoyable, accommodating environment for both casual and more organized meetups.
How does Washtenaw Community College’s community focus add to the meetup experience? Washtenaw Community College is deeply embedded within the local community fabric, welcoming individuals from over 100 countries and engaging actively through partnerships and programs that highlight cultural diversity and lifelong learning. This broad community involvement drives an energetic campus atmosphere that fosters connection and shared experiences. Whether attending a cultural festival, an art show, or an enlightening workshop, visitors benefit from the college’s commitment to unity, education, and enrichment. Community centers affiliated with WCC extend its reach, amplifying its role as a communal gathering spot beyond the main campus. For friends and family looking to strengthen bonds or expand their cultural horizons, WCC’s inclusive programming offers meaningful interactions and opportunities to discover new passions together. Its reputation for high-quality education and active local engagement ensures that meetups can be both fun and intellectually rewarding.
In what ways can WCC facilitate learning and growth during group visits? At its core, Washtenaw Community College is an institution dedicated to education and personal growth, and it opens this ethos to visitors as well. The college’s diverse course catalog, which spans business, health, technology, arts, and sciences, offers occasional public events and classes suited for group participation. Friends or family members attending together can choose from creative workshops, technology seminars, health and wellness courses, or public service programs, all designed to inspire curiosity and skill-building in an accessible environment. Beyond formal classes, the college regularly hosts lectures, guest speakers, and community discussions that encourage critical thinking and dialogue. These educational opportunities can make group visits more enriching by combining social interaction with personal development, appealing to groups that value productive, shared experiences. WCC’s support for lifelong learning means your meetup can leave a lasting impact far beyond the day itself.
What makes Washtenaw Community College’s location advantageous for meetups? Situated at 4800 E. Huron River Drive, WCC benefits from a location bridging Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, two vibrant Michigan communities known for their cultural and recreational offerings. This prime positioning offers visitors easy access via public transit and the Border-to-Border bike trail, accommodating active and eco-friendly travel preferences. Multiple bus stops on campus enable seamless arrival, and generous free parking simplifies visits by car, encouraging spontaneous or planned group outings. Nearby areas offer complementary entertainment, dining, and shopping that can extend your gathering beyond the campus grounds. The option to combine a peaceful campus day with external excursions caters to diverse group tastes, from nature walks and outdoor games to exploring local eateries and boutiques. This geographic advantage adds versatility and convenience, making WCC not just a destination, but a central starting point for a full day or weekend of activities with friends and family.