Can You Guess That Grad?

What playwright, initially rejected by U-M, was admitted based on a pair of letters to the dean’s office?
Read time: < 1 minute

Arthur Miller, ’38, enjoyed an acclaimed career as the author of plays such as “Death of a Salesman,” which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. But his college career started less auspiciously. He was originally rejected—twice—by U-M due to his poor algebra marks, which were self-admittedly “so low as to be practically invisible.” Determined, Miller built up his savings by working at a New York auto warehouse for two years. He professed in two letters to the LSA dean that the experience made him a more “serious fellow.” The long-shot appeal worked. He arrived in Ann Arbor in 1934 and flourished, earning two Hopwood Awards before returning to New York in 1938.


For a list of notable U-M grads, visit alumnus.alumni.umich.edu/notable-alumni.

Become a Member Today!

Your membership dollars allow us to tell stories that celebrate U-M alums’ achievements and their impact in the world. Support this work and get access to all Michigan Alum articles by joining today.

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. By using this site, you accept our use of cookies.