College of Liberal Arts
University of Minnesota
Twin Cities Campus
101 Pleasant St SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455

Mike's Blog

Back into the Swing of Things...

Studying is the last thing on my mind after spending a week away from school during Spring Break; however it is finally time to get back into the swing of things. I spent my Spring break relaxing and forgetting about schoolwork and upcoming assignments. This seemed like a good idea at the time, even though I knew that I would have a lot of catching up to do when I returned to campus. So far the first week back from Spring Break has gone smoother than expected and I am enjoying the warmer temperatures (40 degrees!!) as compared to the cold, winter weather earlier this month.

I am currently deciding whether or not to study abroad this summer in Toledo, Spain. I have declared a minor in Spanish Studies and would be able to complete my final two Spanish classes in Toledo. However, I would also like to continue taking Spanish classes next year, so I am still undecided. The deadline to confirm is in two weeks, so I will keep you posted. The U of M has a great Learning Abroad Program, where students can choose between studying for an entire academic year, fall or spring semester, May term, or for the summer. Students can go to the Learning Abroad Website to check for the time and location of the next ‘First Step Meeting,’ which will inform them of the basic procedures on how to search and apply for specific learning abroad opportunities. After this first step meeting, the Learning Abroad Office will make a profile for each student to assist them when they drop by to discuss a possible experience abroad.

I am also looking forward to working at the CLA Open House this next Saturday, April 5th. This is one of CLA’s biggest events, where we host hundreds of prospective students (and their parents) and let them get a feeling of what college life is all about. From learning about Studying Abroad Opportunities to hearing a student panel answer questions about their personal U of M experiences, the future class of 2012 will go home knowing everything that CLA has to offer.

March 30th, 2008
Picture of Mike
  • Class & major: senior; psychology, Spanish minor
  • Hometown: Rochester, Minnesota
  • Why a liberal arts degree : Before applying to the U of M I was thinking about majoring in psychology. After asking questions and researching, I learned that the U of M's program is ranked with the best. This was the most influential determinate of enrolling in the U because my focus was the quality of the education I would receive. Overall, CLA has stood up to my expectations and is helping me discover my abilities and potential.
  • My advice for a good first semester : It goes by fast, so enjoy it! Keep your door open to new opportunities, meeting new friends, and getting involved in activities. Some critial advice is to make sure to STUDY a lot your freshman year. You won't have the option to get behind.
  • Favorite hangout on campus: the big comfy chairs in Coffman
  • Favorite quotation: "An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind." - Gandhi