Northwood students explore Midland in Go MAD March

August 10, 2026 - 02:07

As Northwood University gets ready to welcome students back to its Midland campus in the coming weeks, a group of newcomers will get an early introduction to the city on August 21. That day is set aside for a welcome-back event tied to the school's Go MAD March, a program designed to get students out of the dorms and into the community.

The idea is simple: connect students with local shops, restaurants, and services they might not otherwise find on their own. Small business owners in Midland will have a chance to meet the students face to face, hand out information, and maybe offer a discount or two. For the students, it is a way to learn what the town has to offer beyond the campus borders.

Organizers say the event is about building relationships early. When students feel at home in the surrounding area, they are more likely to stay involved, spend locally, and even stick around after graduation. The Go MAD name stands for "Make A Difference," and the March part refers to the walking route that takes participants through different parts of downtown and nearby neighborhoods.

The August date is just the start. More activities are planned through the fall to keep students connected with local businesses and community groups. For now, the focus is on making a good first impression and showing that Midland is more than just a college town.