Five tips for a successful campus visit

A tour guide leads a group of students on a campus tour. Student tour guides give personal perspectives on student life, academics, and more.

"You can read all about the University on paper and online but there's nothing like visiting campus in person."

 

 

Five tips for a great visit

1. Bring plenty of questions.

"The admissions counselors and Visit Office staff enjoy answering questions about academics, student life, sports, entertainment, and just about anything else," says Rachael. "You really get the most out of your visit by speaking up and asking questions!"

2. Customize your visit by adding special appointments.

We offer classroom visits, residence hall tours, and meetings with departments on campus. "We will always go the extra mile to fulfill a student's request," says Maggie. Take advantage of the opportunity to experience a lecture or visit with a professor by requesting a special appointment when you schedule a campus visit.

3. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.

"Minnesota weather can go from hot to cold and back again all in one day," says Rachael, who recommends checking the forecast and dressing appropriately. Wearing layers is a good strategy! Consider your choice of footwear as well. "You'll be covering a lot of ground on your visit, so comfortable shoes are a must!" says Maggie.

4. Spend time exploring the Minneapolis and St. Paul metropolitan area.

"If you're not from the area, spending a day or two exploring the Twin Cities will really show you how much the Minneapolis and St. Paul area has to offer," suggests Rachael. Consider shopping at the Mall of America, eating at a trendy restaurant in Uptown Minneapolis, or taking in a show at the Guthrie Theatre.

5. Unsure about which visit option is best for you? Don't hesitate to call!

Calling the VISITLINE and discussing visit options with a Visit Office staff member is a good idea, especially if you're not sure which visit is the best fit for you. We can help you determine most appropriate visit for your interests and your schedule.

For many students, visiting the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is important step in choosing a college.

The 2003 College Destination Index rates the Twin Cities as the fourth most desirable big city in which to attend college, ahead of New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Also, Money magazine chose the Twin Cities as the best Midwestern city in which to live. "You can read all about the University on paper and online but there's nothing like visiting campus in person" says Rachael Haave, a professional strategic communication major in the class of 2006. "[The visit] was definitely a deciding factor for me."

Maggie Oswald, who coordinates visits for prospective students and their families, agrees that it is very important for students to visit campus when considering attending the University of Minnesota.

"The University has so much to offer, and each student can have a different experience here," says Maggie. "Visiting campus is the best way for students to find out if the U of M is a good fit for them."

Prospective freshman, transfer, and international students and their families are encouraged to visit. Explore visit options online or call the VISITLINE at 612-625-0000 (1-800-752-1000).

Meet us in person! Schedule your visit online or call the VISITLINE at 612-625-0000 or 1-800-752-1000.

- Chelsy Quiram

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Last Modified on Thursday, December 14, 2006
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