As a Big Ten school, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities offers great academics, exciting athletics, rich traditions, and a vibrant campus community. Read on to learn more about life as a Golden Gopher student!
Big Ten Academic Alliance
As part of the world-class Big Ten Academic Alliance, the U of M is able to offer students unique opportunities in conjunction with, or at, participating Big Ten universities. From innovative research fellowships to access to campus libraries, this partnership is a model for effective collaboration among research universities.
History and Traditions
University of Minnesota Marching Band
Officially started in 1892, the Minnesota Marching Band is one of the most vibrant and visible organizations on campus. With more than 300 members, the "Pride of Minnesota" performs at all home football games and at an annual indoor concert at Northrop Auditorium. Pep bands perform at basketball, hockey, and volleyball events throughout the year as well. Check out the marching band!
Spirit Squad
Did you know organized cheerleading started at the University of Minnesota? In 1898, U of M student Johnny Campbell offered to lead cheers at football games. After Campbell and his "yell leaders" pepped up the crowd during a Gopher victory, the tradition of cheerleading was born. And it continues today, with the cheerleading and dance teams performing at all home football games. In fact, the U of M dance team is one of the top in the nation, with over 19 UDA National Championships. In 2019, the U of M All Girl Cheer team took second place in the nation. Now that is something to cheer about!
Athletics
The University of Minnesota has a long-standing tradition of excellence both inside and outside the classroom!
- In 100 seasons on the ice, the men's hockey team has won 15 tournament championships, 24 conference championships, and 5 national championships. The women's hockey team has ranked in the top three since its founding in 1997, bringing home three national championships.
- In 2019, the Golden Gopher Football team won 11 games for the first time since 1904, and ended the season ranked #10 in the nation. Led by Big Ten coach of the Year PJ Fleck, and with the motto "Row the Boat," the Gophers' season brought lots of excitement to campus. Some of which included hosting ESPN's College GameDay, beating the #4 Penn State Nittany Lions, and winning the Outback Bowl!
- 2019 was a great year for many of our other #GopherSports teams as well. The Gopher Men's Basketball team advanced to the NCAA tournament, Gopher Women's Softball went to the College World Series, and Gopher Women's Volleyball made yet another appearance in the Final Four! Follow @GopherSports to stay up to date with all the latest news.
Just as important as the play on the field is the student support for athletics at the University.
- Watch the Gopher football team at the Huntington Bank Stadium! Jingle keys before kick-offs or remove one of your shoes to show support for a field goal.
- Celebrate Gopher hockey at Mariucci Arena by celebrating a weekend “sweep” of a rival school
- Join the crowd at Williams Arena, “The Barn”, one of the most intimidating and loud venues in all of college basketball! Surround the opposing team (the student section extends lower than the playing surface, literally!) and get excited for Gopher basketball.
Student support at the U of M is a long-standing and proud tradition. We welcome all students and fans to join in!
Annual Events
Welcome Week
Welcome Week is an action-packed experience that you will share with your classmates the week before classes begin. This program includes events planned to connect and welcome you to the campus, your college, and the Twin Cities community. During the program you will have an opportunity to:
- participate in New Student Convocation, the traditional kickoff to your college experience
- build a sense of community
- take ownership of your college experiences
- lead and work among students from diverse backgrounds
- establish relationships with your classmates
- discover the incredible resources and opportunities available to you
- learn about U of M school spirit and traditions at Pride and Spirit Day
Homecoming
Homecoming is the annual fall tradition where the campus community, alumni and friends gather to celebrate school spirit. A tradition at the University of Minnesota since 1914, Homecoming features events such as student sports and philanthropy competitions, lip sync performances, a bonfire, pep fest and parade, the traditional Gopher homecoming football game, and more.
Spring Jam
Spring Jam is a week-long celebration in April that celebrates warm weather and the end of another great school year. This U of M student-run event features a live music festival, a student band competition, ballyhoo (a dance competition), sports, an art festival, philanthropy, contests, free food, carnival rides, and an outdoor campus community block party. The 2019 Spring Jam lineup featured artists like Waka Flocka Flame, Jay Rock, Ella Vos, and Mason Ramsey!