While the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, is one of the largest schools in the country, students say they’re constantly amazed by the excellent education and personal attention they receive here. One recent alumnus says, “I still keep in touch with some of my instructors from undergrad. I never expected to be known by name, attending such a large school.” They’re also blown away by the first-rate research facilities, thriving city in close proximity to campus, and school pride that’s off the charts.
The school is situated in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, giving students ample entertainment options to explore when they’re not in class. One junior writes, “The Twin Cities have several exciting locations to go for a great night out. Minnehaha Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is only a short distance away. There are also several galleries, museums, theaters, and restaurants just a stroll or bus ride away.” Students sticking close to campus also have a full slate of activities to fill their off-hours. Parties are usually happening somewhere on campus, but those who prefer not to be a part of that scene still have plenty more to choose from. “Every weekend, there are tons of things to do in Coffman, such as Gophers After Dark activities, which is a great opportunity for those that would like to avoid the partying atmosphere,” writes a freshman. “I also love going to the Gopher games. A great way to get involved with our school spirit is to purchase season football tickets. It is great to see so many people coming together to cheer for our beloved Gophers!”
It’s true: win or lose, the Golden Gophers have a devoted following, on- and off-campus. The university is a member of the Big Ten Conference, and hockey and basketball in particular pack the stands with cheering fans for every game. But some students complain that major sports get too much attention. "Maybe instead of creating a new stadium for our football team that seems to be going nowhere quickly, they could distribute about one percent of the stadium cost so everyone else can afford to play sports,” writes a junior.
U of M’s demographics reflect those of Minnesota as a whole. “I would have to say that the majority of the student body is Caucasian, but hey, we’re in the Midwest—what else would you expect?” asks a senior. But U of M administrators still make an effort to diversify the student body. According to one freshman, “Besides racial diversity, there are many other diverse groups here at the U. A huge group that not only is represented by a student organization but also has its own living-learning community in the dorms is GLBTA. Many people are completely comfortable with this. Most religions are also represented by student groups. There really is something for EVERYONE.”
Students agree that one of their favorite parts of the U of M experience is how everyone—classmates, faculty, staff, and locals—embody the “Minnesota nice” stereotype. “A friend of mine says when she gets off an airplane and gets run over by others in the airport, she knows she’s back in Chicago,” writes a junior. “When she gets off an airplane and anyone that slightly bumps her immediately apologizes, she knows she’s in Minnesota."
