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

Mike's Blog

A Minnesota Winter...

A few years ago I traveled down to Florida to visit some family friends during winter break. The temperature stayed around 60 degrees throughout our visit. It was a little cool to spend time swimming at the beach but I enjoyed getting the chance to break out my shorts and t-shirts. I also remember my Floridian friends thinking I was crazy as they bundled up in jeans and light jackets before we would go out at night!

Obviously they had not experienced a Minnesota winter in quite some time. Yet, a Minnesota winter should not be a deterrent from considering whether to attend the University of Minnesota. In addition to the winter season, students also get to see trees changing colors in the fall and the blooming flowers of spring. Being able to experience four distinct seasons is one of the many benefits of living in Minnesota.

And yes, the temperatures do dip below freezing during the winter. Yet the cold also has its benefits. From snowball fights to sledding, there are many fun things to do during a Minnesota winter. So if you have never experienced a snowfall, this may be the opportunity for you. There are also physical education classes offered that take full advantage of the winter. The University of Minnesota offers beginning and intermediate skiing and snowboarding classes for students who wish to explore the winter even further.

What if cold temperatures are not for you? There are also ways around walking outside that the University has provided. Several buildings and classrooms on campus are connected by a system of tunnels called, ‘The Gopher Way.’ So on a cold, blistery day you can navigate your way through these twisting tunnels/skyways and stay warm.

Yet, if you discover how to reach your classes without taking a step outside I still would not suggest wearing shorts and a t-shirt in the middle of winter :)

-Mike

December 8th, 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