University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Ashley

When considering which college to attend, always put your values first. If the values and environment of the university you are visiting are not compatible with yours, you won't be happy there. In addition, excellent academics and a vibrant social/non-academic scene are equally important. There will be times, no matter how involved you are with school work, that you will need a break and having options makes that fulfilling. If money is a concern but a more expensive school fits you like a glove, go there. We all have loans and you will regret never giving yourself the opportunity when it existed. Once at the university you selected, the most important thing you can remember is balance. Be diligent about your grades, since you are paying for the education after all. However, don't forget to give yourself a break and join a club or go to the movies and just enjoy the atmosphere around you. After these four years are over, all you'll have are memories so make the most of them.

Grace

My advice to parents and students about finding the right college is to explore all your options. Look out of state, look at the state schools and the private schools. Investigate the metropolitan universities and the small town schools. Don't close choose a school because it's cheap. If you really want to go to an expensive school, there are ways to make it more affordable. Don't deny yourself anything.

Megan

Look into your options and ask a lot of questions. Deciding where you will spend four years of your life and potentially thousands of dollars is no light decision and should not be rushed. When you are at school, never be afraid to ask for help or to use the resources that are available for you - professors and tutors are available to help you succeed and there are always campus resources to help with transitions and any problem you could run into while at campus.

Elisabeth

You should definitely visit the campus a lot of times before deciding and consider how at home you feel there, not just rankings in a magazine. Don't just pick the place all your friends are going, either. While you're at college, join clubs and do things, even if it seems unnatural at first. Reach out to people in classes. Join study groups and apply for jobs, internships and research opportunities. Do your homework and excel but don't forget to enjoy life and have fun; you'll never have this much freedom and downtime again, so take advantage of it!

joe

it is very hard to tell what school is going to be a perfect fit for you; i think that it is very important to visit every school you are interested in. If you cant make it to schools you should try to interview a student via email or phone. don't take this experience lightly, it is important to put yourself in the most positive situation you can for the next 4 years.

Christian

Make sure to have a good balance of the college education and as well as the college experience. Start early when looking for a school of your future and dont worry too much about price as there is usually some sort of help financially for it.

Nikki

It shouldn't be about the name or the prestige that decides which school you eventually attend, but rather what your feelings are about that school. Take some time to physically visit the campus, talk to some students, and see what it has to offer you. Once you're in college, jump right into meeting new people. Sure, college is about excelling in academics, but without others to support you, it can be very lonely, not to mention, a very big feat to conquer.

maggie

Go to the U of M!

Awale

Really i would say first, visit the school. Secondly, be cautious on how comfortable you feel especially with the students around you then. Reputation is really important aspect of your career when you graduate. This is important when looking for that good job. It shouldn't be you number one priority but definitely try to consider that. Like i said, class size was not an issue to me but if you are the shy student or one that seeks a small class size, then I would say look into that. Am saying this because your grades and active participation might be hampered. One last thing to consider is your interest and the various courses that the school offers. This was one of the main reasons as to why I chose the Univerisity of Minnesota; Its because of the variety of courses and majors that it offers. So don't restrict yourself because you never know how much your interest in life can change. From medical to Agriculture to Business, I have all the opportunity to change my mind easily if need be. Lastly, the recreational facility that the school has is another thing to consider inorder to be fit.

Madeline

Make sure to tour the schools. Students, find a school that "feels right." (You will know what I mean when you find the right one :)) Also, parents, let your child pick their school, dont try to steer them in any direction you choose, only give them your advice and opinion when they ask for it. Students, buy your books read your book, and go to class! Also, balance your free time and school time. Find a healthy balance to have a social and academic life that you are happy with.

Jessica

You should visit the college and make sure that it feels right. If it doesn't, then don't go there. Parents, don't be afraid to listen to your children and let them branch out, even when it can seem scary or big, if they are unhappy- they will let you know. Students you need to be involved and not be afraid to get out there and find yourself. Don't be afraid to challenge your own beliefs and ideals, this is when you learn the most (I promise). Don't be afraid to go to clubs and events, you'll make tons of friends. Take advantage of everything that the college has to offer, this will be the easiest and cheapest that you'll get it. And lastely, do what feels right, don't be afraid to change your mind, it's never too late, and you'll have the rest of your life to work. Savor and enjoy everything that your college has to offer.

Brandon

Apply and tour as many different universities as you can. Look into studying abroad and what the college offers in terms of programs. Studying abroad will change your life positively and give you a wider perspective on life. Most students will know when they find a college that has the right feel to it. Research schools not online online, but by talking to actual students that have or currently go there. Enjoy your experience!

Steven

Take your time. Finding the right college is a massive decision that will shape who you are and who you will become. It is often at college that you learn who you are as a person and what you believe. Go visit some campuses! Get to know the area! If you end up going to a school without knowing anything about the area, you could end up stuck going to a college that you can not stand being at. Do some reasearch on the schools you are checking out. Find out what the students think about their school. Meet with an advisor and talk through your thoughts. They are good at it! They know the school backward and forward and they can help ease the culture shock of moing in to a place where parental guidance and control are nearly non-exsistant. Most importantly, have fun. People say these are the best years of your life. Don't do them alone. Meet people, hang out, study together; enjoy these years, because they fly by!

Lauren

I think you should just try to find the atmosphere that fits you best. Do not worry so much about academics because they will follow as long as you like where you are.

Sara

Definitely consider alternative options, and think strongly about what you want to major in. I was late in deciding my major, and I am already set back a year, so think about it a lot! Try not to stress out about working and money during school, but don't be wasteful of it either. Make friends and have fun, but learn a lot too!

Carina

Students: you'll know the right place when you get there. it will just feel right. Parents: listen to your students, they are very smart and aware!

Melissa

I think it's important for the student to make the final decision on where to attend. College is a huge step towards adulthood and independence and you should explore as much as you can. When you feel completely comfortable and at ease on a campus you will know that it's the right one for you. It's also important not to fall into the freshman curse of putting school on the back burner and drinking to excess. You can never get back that first year and it could haunt your GPA for the rest of your college career.

Adam

Visit and tour the school before even applying. Do plenty of research on the university and talk to someone that has gone there recently

Karlie

It's important to find a college that makes you feel comfortable. If you like small class sizes, the University of Minnesota probably isn't for you. If you like a challenging environment with a huge social network, then this University is for you. Make sure that when you arrive for a visit on a campus that you can see yourself not only spending the best four years of your life there, but also that you could see yourself dedicating your life there. You should fall in the love with the city you attend school in. It is important for the happiness and success of your college career. Don't be afraid to speak your mind and make as many friends as possible. These friends will be with you for the rest of your life. Get involved. Work hard. Have fun (but not too much!). Find a home on campus that you can make your own. Lastly, find a major that really defines who you are and what you want to be. BE PASSIONATE! You only get once chance at this so make it the best that you can!

Melissa

I would tell the parents and mainly students that they need to make sure that there are enough options open for the student to grasp. For example, there should be many fields of majors he/she can choose from. I would personally tell the students to live in the dorms (if possible) for at least the first year, mainly because I didn't and I also didn't get the full experience of living on campus and making friends. Also, I would tell them to make sure that they find a college that isn't to small or too big for the student, but I also would tell them that once the student starts school, the school size will become smaller than it looks. I would also advise to take a tour of the school before he/she attends. I would also advise to talk to the campus police and find out about what they know about the campus. Make sure it is safe.

Roseline

I would advice the student to have an open mind about thier major and not be closed minded about changing thier career path. It's important that they go into what they spent time researching and undertand well. I would advice parents to be supportive of whatever major thier child chooses to do. Students with parents that are supportive of thier career tend to have a more relaxed and good college life; which is definitely important and necessary considering the academic stress students are under.

Alexander

To start the search early and take visits. Find someplace based on what fits your personality the best, no matter where that school is.

Katie

Make sure that the climate is one you can handle. If you like palm trees and flip flops, the UofM is not a place you'll survive. Pick a Campus that's big enough for you to be able to meet lots of people, but not so big that you'll feel lost. Live in the dorms your first year-even though the food is horrible, that's where you'll meet your friends and study buddies. GO TO CLASS. You will do better and you won't regret it when, come finals week, you actually know what's going on.

Andrew

Choose a school with a variety of interesting academic programs because you are very likely to switch majors. Also, make sure that you like the town/city/neighborhood where the school is.

kathleen

You can ALWAYS transfer. You will definately change your major 2 or 3 times, so don't stress. The most important thing, after your college preferences, is scholarship. Start the process early to avoid the stress.

Christian

First of all and most important is to find your career path. It makes the college search so much easier. For me it was a career based in engineering so why not a school known for their engineering department and is so close to technologically based companies that are in downtown minneapolis. If a career path is not decided, then chose a school that will help you with your choice and can give you an opportunity to achieve that choice with out having to transfer. When you are at college, I would encourage you to not emphasize on school too much. A good college experience is not only about the classes and grades but also what you get involved in and those people that you will be friends with the rest of your life.

Ruoyu

not in particular

Michelle

make sure that you take into the financial situation. don't go to a school because it's private or because it's cool. make sure it's for the right reasons. Save money! if need be transfer to a four year school to save money. but do the research first! some programs are a strich four year program so it wouldn't make a difference if you went to a small school previously for generals.

Adam

Pick a college where YOU want to go. Don't be persuaded by where the "crowd" is going. Take classes you've always wanted to take and don't let anyone tell you what to take or do.

Samir

Make new friends by living in on-campus dorms your first year.

John

I think making the choice for college should be based on a variety of things. For me, money was a big issue. I couldn't go to a private college since they were really expensive. I also took into consideration the fact that I am independent, but didnt want to move really far away from home. I would miss my family too much. I like Minnesota as well, although the winters are very cold. Another reason why I picked coming here is because I wanted to look into becoming an architect, and the U was the only MN school that offered it. Alot of things affect the what school you go to, just prioritze the things that matter most. As for your college experience, just meet people. The more people you meet, the more likely you land yourself some really good friends and you will get to do what you wanna do. If you like to party, you are likely to find those people. And if you like something different, that is mostly here too. Just look. With such a big school, you are bound to find somewhere to fit.

Ricky

Parents: Let your kids select the school they believe will be right for them. This is one of the first times in their lives where they get to figure out everything on their own. This should start with the selection of the school. Students: Be wise in your selection of school. Make sure you take into account the quality of the faculty and campus, the size of the student body, and most importantly, how much each university costs. You're looking to get the best education for the best value. Also, I would recommend finding out how active the campus social life is. Nobody likes to be bored on the weekends.

Raquel

Figure out what you want out of your college experience FIRST before you make any decisions. How important is your education? How important is socialization? How important is class size? How important is your job competitiveness when you are done? Do you want to pursue a professional degree when you are done? Consider these things and write them down. When researching schools or attending college tours, keep these in mind. Also, do what you love. Just because someone says you need to volunteer or do research to get anywhere, don't do it unless you have a passion for it. I found people who did things "just because" often lost themselves and their motivation. So keep it real and find what you are passionate about and your experience, no matter what college you choose, will be that much more fulfilling. Finally, don't get into the freshman rut. Your grades that first year are critical to keeping your GPA high. It may be difficult at first but don't give up. I promise it will get easier once you get the hang of it.

Alie

I think it is really difficult for students to choose the college that they will be most successful at. Ultimately academics is the focus and drive for most descions, but I also think that many students are concerned about the social aspect of their college experience. It is not good to weigh one above the other necessarily, but to hopefully come to the point where you have a college you feel you will be academically successful at, but also be able to enjoy the years that you spend there. Its also important to realize that college isn't easy, and you will more than likely come to a point where you don't feel like you have it in you, but it is essential to just pull through and stick with it. A college degree is so valuable in society today and in the work force. A college degree costs a lot of money, and takes a lot of time, effort and energy, but it is so valuable.

Angie

Take into account the area around the campus as well as the campus. Make sure that area fits the student's personality, as well. Also make sure options exist, because students frequently change majors, outlooks on life, and future plans. For example, I thought I would live in a dorm all four years, but my roommates and I could not handle not having a kitchen, so now we live off campus. I was lucky there were options to change this, as were all the students who attend my college that change majors--it's a large school, so there are plenty to choose from. Lastly, make sure new and exciting cultural opportunities exist. What better time to first experience these than when one is young and free?

Jennea

When visiting prospective college campuses try to talk to students and not just the student tour guide about campus food, the financial aid, student-faculty relations, and graduate job placement. Also, be sure to check out such websites such as ratemyprofessor.com or pick-a-proff.com to see how students rate the professors at certain campuses. As for making the most out of a college experience be sure to get involved! Join a student group or organization, volunteer, or participate in sports or other extracurricular activities. Knowing and befriending upper-classmen can be extremely helpful in your college survival because they can provide you with the in's and out's that they've learned. Also, if you didn't have to study very much in high school in order to earn good grades, you better learn how to study now because that first midterm is going to be your rude awakening. However, don't forget to enjoy the weekends!

Michelle

Don't follow what your friends do. Everyone has a college the is right for them and is specific to their needs. Do what feels right and be sure to visit the campus.

Casey

I think that it is very important to tour the school. Without touring the school you don't really get a good idea of what that school is like: the atmosphere, the students, the hangouts. Touring really helps the students feel like she/he's a part of the school. When i first toured the University of Minnesota i felt like i instantly belonged there and I knew that was the school for me. Another piece of advice i can offer is to tour the school more than once. The second time I toured, I talked to the heads of departments, I talked to advisors and teachers. I wanted to make sure that the school offered exactly what i wanted. Speaking a variety of different people at the college of your choice helps you get an inside view and a sneek peek of what you'll be a part of. I think this is important becuase, on your first day you wont be so lost and confused. You will feel so much more confident and sure about yourself and your decision. I really believe that touring multiple times is what helped me most at the Univerity of Minnesota.

Chanel

Dont ever let other people sway your decision of where to go to college. The goal of college is to meet new people and make new friends. Choose a school that is great for your major and if you dont know what you want your major to be, pick the school that you feel connected to. Don't go to a school with the intentions of transferring because the best college experiences are the ones where students completely immerse themselves in the school and the community and make it there homes for four years. Don't let boyfriends, girlfriends, home sickness or anything else take away from your experience. Get involved with things on campus, go to sporting events, talk with your professors; just really make the school your home.

Komeng

Look at the advisers...make sure they see past your student's GPA...if not, then they could care less for them

Elizabeth

The best advice I could give any perspective student would be to apply to at least 4 schools that you are interested in and be sure to visit all of them. For me, visiting my schools was what ultimately made up my mind- everywhere looks good on paper. Once you've selected a school, I think the best way to get the most out of your expereince is to get involved in both the university itself and the surrounding community. Being involved allows you to meet friends and people to network with, creates a sense of ownership and pride in what you do, and gives you a chance to grow more than just academically. Finally, I would suggest getting to know your professors. Not only will they be more willing to help you should you need it, you will also make connections with people who are already well-established in their respective fields.

Christy

Get involved, It will help you adjust and give you a sense of community

Michael

If possible, before choosing a college you should talk to current students and ask a lot of questions. Ask about the accessibility of the professors. Ask whether or not the student feels like s/he is part of a community. Ask about extra-curricular activities. This is the stuff that will make or break your college experience. Live on campus for at least a year. Dorm life is an experience you'll remember forever. During your first semester, find a student organization or two to join--don't take on too much responsibility right away, but make sure you find a social network and make friends. Don't be afraid to talk to your professors after class, even if it's not about class--be friendly with them and good things will happen. Find a spot other than your home where you feel comfortable studying. Lastly, the freshman fifteen is real: try to eat healthy and get some exercise.

maiv

Do really good research about the college and make sure to talk to a lot of college students who attend the college. Those admission people are going to want you in no matter what, they are not going to tell you the bad. So talk to a current student, and ask about the Good, Bad, and Ugly about the college.

Katie

Ask your friends and family about their college experiences and keep their stories in mind when you select a college. I know my dad was in a fraternity, and now that I'm in college I remember when he told me about his college days. I may be at a different college and choose not to be Greek, but it's nice to think that we still have things in common; having friends over and making dinner for everyone is a great way to spend a weekend! And even if you don't get into your school of choice, nothing says you can't make the most of what you have. Transferring colleges is usually an option, so until you can do that, get some basic courses done and try to have fun while you're at it. Sometimes you don't know that you're living your dream until you look back on what you've done; strive to make your wishes reality.

Heather

Go with what feels comfortble. If you get help learning about the school it is likely that you will be able to get help once you are on campus. Talk to professors in the department you are interested in studying in so that you get a better idea of the departments strengths and weaknesses. Do not go somewhere because it seems like a party school. It may be fun in the short term but you will regret it once you are looking for jobs after college. To make the most out of your college experience make sure to get involved in a few on campus activities. This will help you meet people with similar interests to you and you will feel a sense of belonging to the school.

Kathleen

As Benjamin Franklin said, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." I was a first generation college student and as much as I prepared, I was still a fish out of water. I had a lot of misconceptions and didn't know how to find the answers or even which questions to ask! If you or your family is not familiar with the college experience, find someone who is and have them share their experience with you with as many details as possible and tell them your concerns. Do not take where you go to college lightly because it will be your life for the next four years. The top things to consider when choosing a college are: curriculum, price, location and what I had no idea about: CAMPUS LIFE! I had visited the colleges I considered but didn't spend a weekend or attend classes. I was an exceptional student in high school because I worked extremely hard but will only burn you out in college: you need to work hard and SMART. This means that you will need to prioritize and choose between the infinite demands on your time and find balance in your life.

Abbie

I would tell students entering college to use all of the resources available to them. Writing centers, academic advisors, cultural programs are all set up by the University to help the student succeed and to become a more dynamic person. Seize all that's offered to you and be grateful for everything you've been given.

Brittany

Do not be afraid of something new and different from where you grew up. College is a time where you really discover what you believe and why you believe what you believe, so going to a school with a lot of oppurtunities to grow as a person will make college a lot more fun for you. Get involved wherever you end up! Greek life is a great way to make a large university feel a lot smaller, and I promise it is not all about drinking - it made my college years amazing and gave me friends that I will have for a lifetime. Also, make sure that the school you chose has a couple majors you are interested in, because chances are high that you will change your major a time or two - and that is okay!

Chris

I would say to live on campus for your freshman and sophomore years. That way you can make some solid friendships faster than if you were to commute and be away from them most of the time. Not living on campus for my first two years was something that I always regretted. College is fun, so enjoy it as much as you can by living on campus.