The University of Minnesota Twin Cities

Date: May 12 2005
Major: Other (This Major's Salary over time)
I chose the U because of its size and diversity both in terms of people and educational opportunities. The U challenged me and opened me up to theories and experiences that provided the foundation for graudate school and employment.

I participated in the honors program, and if you have that opportunity, definitey do it! It makes the university much smaller and you take classes from full professors early on. However, some of my favorite classes/seminars were taught by TAs who were top-notch. I was someone who sought out professors/TA's in office hours and I highly recommend doing that. Yes, you might have to wait in a line for an hour (or more) so bring reading to do!

Also, I recommend planning out your semesters in advance around your place in the registration sequence. I did this and had mostly amazing classes with all of the professors I wanted to take. Definitely don't wait until the last minute, since I always heard the horror stories of people who couldn't get the classes they needed.
Try an extra-curricular activity and if the first one isn't your thing try something else. It took me over a year to find my niche, but I did it. I wish I had tried more things my first year. Yeah, dorm life was pretty high school-ish, but I think everyone should try it for the experience. There is a commuinity-feel to the different floors. Apartment life was much better for me, however.

I was not into Greek life, but I found that most of the people I met who were affiliated broke all my stereotypes! They seemed to allow for a lot of individuality. Also, they're the people who go to the games! I love football, but most of my friends didn't. I did miss having the "game-day" culture of the other big ten schools.
The people who drink 4+ days a week aren't hard to find. But seek out the ones who don't spend spend all of their money this way and experience the city. I've lived many places and nothing compares to the affordable but worldy dining/music/arts scene of the Twin Cities. If you want to go to a large public research university and don't want to sacrifice city life, this is the place for you. One of the best things about the U is that just about anyone fits in here, regardless of nationality, race, sexual orientation, religion, class. However, if you're not somewhat independent, not a self-starter, and feel most welcome in a small, close-knit community, then this probably wouldn't be the best fit for you.
Study abroad! The programs are great. You will work hard and grow wiser.