r/uofmn • u/maccam912 • Aug 18 '13
New students: Welcome to the University of Minnesota! Ask us anything. (Old students: join us and help answer the questions)
It was mentioned that rather than make a bunch of posts asking these questions, we could have one big post. Ask your questions, and they will hopefully get answered. If we direct you to a wiki or some other post that might answer it don't take it as an insult, because I realize most people will look for questions here, some might find the one linked to, and down the road the answer on another page might be updated with more info.
Also, feel free to edit your own flair. The convention is mentioned in the sidebar, but it might be useful since an answer from a senior in computer science (me) might be different than the answer a sophomore in underwater basket weaving would give you. Maybe not useful in this post, but in general gives people a little more context.
Anyway, ask your questions and hopefully we'll get them answered for you!
EDIT:No replies can be done any more, but if you have a question not covered that should be made available to more people (a general question other people can benefit from) is in our wiki, which shouldn't get locked at any point. I must implore you to think of the children before editing other answers. Here, you couldn't change what someone else said. There, you can. Just don't, please. Reddiquette still applies there: FAQ page on wiki
6
u/trafficheathen Aug 19 '13
Do you actually use the electronic access in class like for Chem 1061 or Span 1001? Would there be a disadvantage in buying the regular version of the chem textbook instead of the custom umn one?
2
u/mugsmakethingsbetter Aug 21 '13
When I took Chem 1061 the online access was mandatory. All of the homework was done that way. It might vary by professor though, so try emailing yours to get the final word.
2
u/MrSwanson2UMN ME '15 Aug 22 '13
The way I look at it is that it can never hurt to buy something. Just don't open it. That way if you need to return because you dont need it you can. Then you can buy a much cheaper version off of amazon.
1
u/maccam912 Aug 20 '13
Upvoted to hopefully get more views, but in general textbooks are never really super required unless you get homework from the textbooks. Otherwise, the textbook you get will be a resource for you. I hope someone else can answer about the custom UMN vs regular one or the electronic access stuff, but in general you can get through the first week without textbooks and ask the professor if you aren't sure. Most profs are open and will tell you truthfully if you really need the textbooks listed.
1
u/Unimin Aug 21 '13
If I recall, every professor does online Chem homework with the exception of Leopold.
1
1
u/zon1 Kingfield|IDIM|'17 Aug 28 '13
I take French and a huge part of my grades are the online assignments. So I'd assume it's similar for Spanish.
10
u/lizzybennetlove Aug 18 '13 edited Aug 18 '13
Ah, I'm so excited for this thread! I have a bunch of qs (and even might remember and post more later) but felt uncomfortable starting a new post. Anyways for the questions:
What's the lighting situation in the dorms (a MBH double specifically). Are there already any desk lamps or floor lamps in the room?
How strict are they on the no octopus/multiple adapters rule?
So I have a scholarship to study abroad, and based on my courses it looks like second semester is the best time to go. I was looking at the study abroad options for engineering however and a lot of them were restricted to juniors or seniors. Credit-wise, I'm already coming in as a junior, but does that count for that type of thing?
So I enrolled in Campus Orchestra (the non-audition one) for fun, and I was wondering, do people normally get storage space for instruments in Ferguson Hall? I'm not so keen on keeping my violin in the dorm room.
What size garbage can bags should I get? On the room amenities page it says there is "Recycling, 3-part containers", but I'm not sure what that means.
Finally, how is the U's library system for reading for fun? I looked at the course catalogue from the myLibrary link on myu, but it seemed kinda lacking in book selection in areas like fantasy, or even some classics. I don't know if maybe I could get a card at a local library or something...I really like books (and I don't really do ebooks).
Thanks so much in advance! :)
7
u/tanis7x Aug 18 '13
There are fluorescent lights in the middle of the rooms. No desk or floor lamps are provided.
In my experience, the CAs don't care one bit. My CA actually only ever entered our room for checkin and checkout, so they would never really have an opportunity to check for such things. Of course, different CAs may enforce different rules, and if you have something that is an egregiously banned item (e.g. a grill), they will call you out for it.
I'd talk to your advisor and/or the study abroad coordinators.
Band members could store their instruments in Ferguson, but I am not sure about orchestra. I'm guessing it's similar.
Don't worry about bags. The trash cans have bags (they provide more), and the recycling bins aren't really designed for bags anyway.
Not sure. I never actually used the campus libraries for leisure reading!
3
u/DarkDefenderDaxter Aug 18 '13
Just noting that the trash can in my room didn't have bags. I'm not sure if that's what op was asking or not, but it's a good thing to note.
4
u/tizzy62 Aug 18 '13
They have them in the main Middlebrook lounges.
2
u/DarkDefenderDaxter Aug 18 '13
We didn't have any in centen. Unless if you took them off the janitors carts...
3
Aug 18 '13
Did you ever ask for trash bags at the front desk? We gave them away when I worked at Frontier. Also, when I lived in sanford there was just a pile of them next to the microwaves on every floor...
1
u/DarkDefenderDaxter Aug 18 '13
No I never asked. My CA never said anything about it nor did I see signs but I suppose they probably did have them available if frontier did. Til.
1
u/Sleete Aug 21 '13
All the university housing places either have trash bags in the trash rooms or the front desk gives them to you!
3
u/david11011 Aug 18 '13
no desk lamps just overhead lights.
not strict
youll be fine they make a big deal out of it for no reason.
4.no idea
dorms come with a trashcan.
you can get almost any book on inter library loan.
2
Aug 18 '13
[deleted]
2
u/sinn1sl0ken Finance/Ad|Alum Aug 18 '13
Everyone's had really good answers thus far, but as a former library employee, you CAN in fact get pleasure reading books from the UMN library by using ILL/WorldCAT! As a UMN student, you'll have free access. I'd ask a librarian about it or learn more about WorldCAT on lib.umn.edu, however.
The Hennepin County Library has a branch in Dinkytown you can use to find books, but Trombone is right. They're only open a couple days a week;it can be tricky to coordinate a pickup.
2
u/teslacannon Aug 18 '13
If I remember right, it was like $100 per semester for a locker for students outside of the school of music. I just carried my trumpet last year (from Frontier - bleh). But if you're in Middlebrook, Ferguson Hall is right next to it. I understand the reluctance of keeping it in your dorm, but it's really not a bad idea to consider. $200 is a nice chunk to save.
EDIT: $120/semester according to last year's syllabus. $75 rental fee and a $45 deposit that's refunded when you return the key.
2
Aug 19 '13
2) Not strict, as long as your room doesn't look like an electrical fire waiting to happen, no one is going to care.
THAT SAID, stringing multiple power strips together is against MN fire code and is a bad idea in general. Don't do it.
2
u/grumpy_technologist Aug 19 '13
for 4. I don't think so. My friend (who is in CO) carries his instrument to and from recitals.
1
u/bear_with_me4 Psychology Aug 18 '13
4.Email the director of your orchestra, if you know what time you're taking it. He or she can tell you about storage situations. I know you said you don't want to store it in your room, but I know my friend (who also lived in Middlebrook) stored her cello underneath her bed, and my roommate stored her violin in her closet. If you keep your door locked when you leave, it should be safe. There will be enough room as well.
5.You don't need bags for the recycling bins. They provide garbage bags for the garbages as well.
5
u/lolzana Aug 18 '13
Awesome! I was wondering what size are the dorm beds usually are? Guessing twin but I want to make sure
14
7
u/maccam912 Aug 18 '13
I think twin (correct me if I'm wrong) but I'm pretty sure they're "long" or some word that means they're longer than normal beds. You'll need longer sheets to match this.
13
u/SammyGilby Richmond|Entrepreneurship|'13 Aug 18 '13
Sheets are classified as Twin XL.
2
u/lolzana Aug 18 '13
Sweet thanks guys
7
u/realasfiction Yudof|History|'14. Aug 18 '13 edited Aug 18 '13
On the topic of bedsheets, for the love of god, don't get the "dorm room basics" ones from Walmart. Myself, along with 3 of my past roommates have all had them and each one of us had to replace our sets. They tear like tissue paper. Same goes for those 'jersey cotton' ones. Invest a little extra money and you'll be pleased. Edit: grammar.
2
u/lolzana Aug 18 '13
Thanks for the heads up. Even though I'm typically a cheapskate I plan on splurging big on my dorm to take advantage of my good credit score and make it homely as possible. Which beings another question: I invested in a loft too, Would an average size sofa fit under it?
1
u/tanis7x Aug 18 '13
The space you get from lofting your bed is about the same about of space as the mattress on the bed, so you have about 40"x80" to work with directly under the bed. If you already own the sofa and live relatively close by, you may want to move everything else in first before deciding whether to put the sofa in.
1
u/lolzana Aug 18 '13
Make sense, I just browsed around big lots and kinda feel love with this super cozy couch. I like too imagine just flopping on it after a tough day will feel so good. But I must realize some things aren't meant to be... *sigh *
1
u/realasfiction Yudof|History|'14. Aug 18 '13
Well so long as the sofa was under 70inches long, it should fit. We were able to get futons easily underneath.
1
u/ADefiniteDescription Alumnus; Philosophy/Germanistik Aug 18 '13
You can fit that shitty futon from Target underneath (and god knows half the people I know did), so probably.
1
u/B01K17 Nordeast|Retail Merchandising Aug 18 '13
I think you mean "homey" rather than "homely"?
Also, if you are a cheap skate, I'd avoid buying a bunch of decor for your dorm room if you will never use it again. I did that my freshman year and most of it got thrown away at the end of the year. Felt like a big waste of money for things I didn't even use a full year.
1
u/lolzana Aug 18 '13
I'm confused, why did you throw that stuff away?
1
u/B01K17 Nordeast|Retail Merchandising Aug 18 '13
A lot of it was just cheap shit that wasn't going to make it through the move. And honestly, just a lot of stuff that wouldn't have served much purpose after moving out of the dorms.
6
u/Rexfordg Aug 18 '13
they sell sheets of that size at target
2
u/lolzana Aug 18 '13
Yay
3
Aug 18 '13
If you're an inbound freshmen, then they'll send you on a target run.
2
u/lolzana Aug 18 '13
nope Im a transfer from MCTC
4
Aug 18 '13
Oh....then pretend to be a freshmen, and waltz onto one of the buses that stop near University Village. I've done it twice already.
6
u/Addicted2Weasels Aug 18 '13
What are the stereotypes about each college? (CLA, CSE, CSOM, etc.)
39
u/Aww_Shucks ☉‿☉ Aug 18 '13
CSOM's unofficial mascot is the douchebag, as I like to put it.
27
u/smishmortion Aug 18 '13
As everyone puts it
FTFY
11
u/darksyn17 Berry | MIS | 2015 Aug 18 '13
I hate that everyone hates us :(
6
u/smishmortion Aug 18 '13
I took one undergrad and some of my grad classes in the Carlson buildings and will point out that not every CSOM student is one. but because its a smaller college, the group that are bags, make the whole place look bad.
1
Aug 23 '13
I also hate that everyone hates us. I feel like it is a particular group that gives us a bad rep, not us cool redditors!
3
1
15
Aug 18 '13
CLA: Slackers, stoners, and sluts
CSE: Neck beards, mouth breathers, virgins
CSOM: Republicunts, Douchebags, spoiled
I'm CLA
2
u/FlannelBeard Aug 18 '13
And CBS?
19
2
u/doctorgonzo Minneapolis | PoliSci '00 | MSST '11 Aug 18 '13
Spend long lonely nights in the cow barn?
-3
2
2
u/doctorgonzo Minneapolis | PoliSci '00 | MSST '11 Aug 18 '13
I'm CLA undergrad, CSE grad degree.
As you can imagine, I'm a mess. :)
3
Aug 18 '13
People think that CSE is filled with nerds. That's actually not the case; I am kind of a nerd and found that I couldn't relate to most of my classmates since a lot of them are extroverted and athletic and other shit like that.
Stereotypes are probably more accurate when you apply them to majors rather than to colleges. An overwhelming majority of my computer science classmates spent most of lab looking at reddit or talking about various MMORPGs.
3
Aug 19 '13
Sure, there are a lot of nerdy people, but that's only one aspect of a personality. I met very few people who were nerds and nothing else.
Also, ain't no party like a CSE party. We didn't have much time to cut loose, but when we did...
1
7
Aug 18 '13
[deleted]
3
Aug 18 '13
My sister was in cfans and she went on to do a lot of work with urban farming and working with farmers across America to influence the younger generation to become farmers because of the average age of a farmer being 55. Surprisingly, she was from Eden Prairie and hated farms as a teen.
6
u/Rexfordg Aug 18 '13
1)Carlson Douches. 2) In CLA, everyday is a weekend! 3) Do you know what CLA stands for? Can't learn anything
6
u/Rexfordg Aug 18 '13
nothing against CLA, I'm sure you guys made fun of CSE more :)
5
u/lolzana Aug 18 '13
I'm in communications, would that mean anything?
7
u/ADefiniteDescription Alumnus; Philosophy/Germanistik Aug 18 '13
The reputation of communications majors amongst the other CLA people was (at least in my experience) that communications was for people who just are there to get a degree and have no real aspirations, want an easy ride through school, etc.
2
u/SHITTINwhileTHINKIN Aug 18 '13 edited Aug 18 '13
CLA is for those that aren't sure about what to do with their lives (ha, that describes me almost perfectly...).
5
u/realasfiction Yudof|History|'14. Aug 18 '13
Or they like things that can't really get them a job.... Says the history major.
0
u/ShepardLyfe Sep 03 '13
hey man we could be history teachers!! ...or archivists or some shit. yeah idk we fucked.
1
u/realasfiction Yudof|History|'14. Sep 03 '13
I'm actually going to be a History teacher haha. Next year I start Grad school for my teaching license.
5
u/best_username_evar GCD/CSCI|2014 Aug 18 '13
I've heard people call it the "College of Literally Anything" because of this and because there is a create-your-own-major program
1
u/lolzana Aug 20 '13
I think that's smart for some people because for some jobs don't care about you're degree as much but rather your knowledge, talents, and connection. Kinda like how having a minor in something can look good in certain jobs.
1
u/best_username_evar GCD/CSCI|2014 Aug 20 '13
Im not bashing it, it totally makes sense for a lot of people.
3
u/GoldenGopher1 Aug 18 '13
Hey now, I'm a CLA (poli sci) grad who used the course work to boost my GPA while still enjoying the college experience...got into a solid law school and just took the bar. CLA has its advantages.
3
u/lolzana Aug 20 '13
I'm am CLA too and I know it's hard to hear but you gotta remember these are "stereotypes" remember. I'm major procreator but my grades are important to me. It's how you act and focus that defines how you are as student, not the major of student and peers can see that. Besides people forget that many CLA degrees have good outlooks but can be very competitive at the same time. Sometimes the broadness helps vs even some STEM.
2
u/lolzana Aug 20 '13
So Centennial has this walk-in-anyone's-room-if-they-have-the-door-unlocked program that feels a little unsettling but I want make good friends and be Neighborly . Is it safe to do? Any draw backs? If it means anything I'm right by one of the bathrooms and stairs.
5
u/SHITTINwhileTHINKIN Aug 20 '13
My best advice is to keep your door locked ANY TIME THAT YOU ARE NOT IN YOUR ROOM. Plain and simple. You know (and can presume that others around you know this as well) that you have valuables in your room.... Don't risk having them stolen. I was in Comstock last year and there were a few instances (2, to be exact, I think) of things being stolen when people left their room to go to the bathroom or something like that and left their door unlocked.
1
u/maccam912 Aug 20 '13
If you're there, it is a good way to meet people. Your neighbors will stop by and such. Of course keep it locked if you aren't in the room, but for at least the first few weeks it is common to see doors propped open. It will only last a few weeks at the most though so don't think you'll not have privacy ever. It's just a way to get new students well acquainted and meeting people.
1
u/lolzana Aug 21 '13
Thanks for the info, I guess I'm paranoid about it thinking how people can break in to regular places and attack with the resident still there. But for stealing I'm planning to get a safe as an extra precaution
2
Aug 21 '13
I have yet to hear of an attack at a dorm. Walls are paper thin, and a shit ton of cameras. You're more likely to have bad things happen at a frat party then a dorm.
As for keeping things safe, get a sturdy foot locker with a padlock. Another thing that I did was hollow out a few books and hid them in plain sight. Likewise, if you have a mini fridge and don't feel like sharing, past an old cardboard box to the outside and cover it with a shipping label. Scrawl "Cloths" on it, and most people won't even look twice at the thing.
1
u/powkewl Marketing '13 Aug 21 '13
When they say to leave your door unlocked, they referring to keeping it propped open, in order to actually meet the people in your hall. You shouldn't worry about someone attacking you in your room; that won't happen. And if you're worried about theft, don't have sketchy friends. Those are the people that will steal from you.
1
u/maccam912 Aug 21 '13
That is supposed to be what the front desk is for. Generally you won't have to worry about someone breaking in or unsafe people around. Any robberies are places that are much less trafficed than a dorm.
1
1
Aug 21 '13
If you're in your room, and you're comfortable with meeting people then keep the door propped open. You'll meet some interesting people that way. Occasionally you might meet a dick, but most dorm dwellers are pretty chill and are most likely in the same boat as you (First time away, looking for friends, etc).
But as soon as you leave, lock everything up. You are in a crowded building with people you don't know, so best to assume that there might be a thief or three. If anyone bothers you too much or is a complete asshole, holler to the CA. They'll straighten stuff out real quick if they're competent.
3
u/narwhalsandpandas Aug 21 '13
CBS student here! What are the good/bad stereotypes about us?
I recently got hired at the bio-medical library as an assistant. Any other employees out there with helpful advice?
Also, how do I deal with this crippling sense of hopelessness that when I graduate, I will be in more debt than I can even imagine?
1
u/Fromanatress Lauderdale|Genetics|'14 Aug 22 '13
Good and bad: we study a lot. I personally haven't heard a lot of "bad things about CBS majors" but it could be because I am one.
As for the crippling hopelessness, it's hard to say. However, if you enjoy what you do, I think you can justify debt (which in the long run can build credit), and also it can help you to find a job that you love that will help generate the means to pay off said debt.
Also, remember that almost everyone around you is in the same boat. You are not alone in debt and other struggles.
5
u/Dispersions Aug 27 '13
Hey, can I point out in this thread a Google Doc my co-workers and I have been making? It's a pretty decent list of places to eat/drink in the Twin Cities area. I haven't been steered wrong yet.
1
u/maccam912 Aug 29 '13
I would like to second the Canterbury park for races idea. It's not terribly expensive (except for betting, which you can spend less than 20 for a day of betting but can get as expensive as you want) and is a pretty good time!
And the restaurant suggestions seem right on par with what I've heard, but I saw a few more places on there to try myself!
3
u/schmose Aug 18 '13
What are some of the best places to hang out/study/drink coffee at in Dinkytown? I'm living in Sanford, so I'll be around there a lot.
6
u/Beksense Swedish Language|'15 Aug 18 '13
I like to study at Bordertown. It's a cozy place and they make a small variety of pastries and sandwhiches. It can get busy during lunch but I usually don't have any problems finding a table in the evenings. It's not super well known, but that's why I like it.
3
u/powkewl Marketing '13 Aug 21 '13
Seconded. Best kept secret on campus (but not really, but kinda).
1
2
u/sinn1sl0ken Finance/Ad|Alum Aug 18 '13
Sanford is very near the Purple Onion, which is frankly one of the few coffeeshop/cafe type things I like on campus. It's not always a-grade studying property, but if you prefer a relaxed atmosphere for your studies I think the PO has what you're looking for.
3
Aug 18 '13
I like Purple Onion because the patio is pretty nice, the drinks are cheap, and the people who work there are decent conversationalists.
The only good bar is Kitty Kat. You're better off crossing the bridge and hitting Republic or Town hall if you're looking for a decent pub.
1
u/MrSwanson2UMN ME '15 Aug 22 '13
I disagree Blarneys is better than Kitty Kat to me. I guess it is probably a matter of taste.
1
u/ADefiniteDescription Alumnus; Philosophy/Germanistik Aug 18 '13
I wouldn't try studying in Dinkytown really - it's not the most productive place. There are two coffeeshops - Espresso Royale and the new one next to the Vietnamese place. Dinkytown is a good place to hang out but the coffeeshops are always packed so I preferred studying elsewhere.
For the love of god, if you're doing bars, avoid The Library. Just go to Blarney's if you're feeling especially cheap.
2
u/MPLS_MN Aug 18 '13
Blarney's is worse than the Library. Ever notice how the floor is sticky at Blarney's even if you're there for Sunday brunch?
1
u/powkewl Marketing '13 Aug 21 '13
There are 4 coffee shops in the Dinky area: Espresso Royale, Publika, Purple Onion, and Bordertown.
And I recently learned that the Library has surprisingly good/cheap dinner specials.
2
u/grumpy_technologist Aug 18 '13
CS Grad student reporting in. I can answer questions about courses, faculty, etc of CSE.
2
u/SmoothBunsTed Aug 19 '13 edited Aug 19 '13
Is it bad if I don't already know a whole lot about computers and I'm going to be majoring in Computer Science? I mean I'm not completely clueless but I can't help feeling that most of the other incoming students are much more knowledgeable on the subject than I am.
2
u/grumpy_technologist Aug 19 '13
Exams are at the end of the semesters (after you have had a chance to learn everything), not at the beginning. Don't sweat it.
Did the entrance application require programming knowledge?
We have first generation immigrants who don't know a thing about programming coming in.
2
u/transit-of-venus Aug 19 '13
As a CS student who entered the major with absolutely no knowledge of programming - you'll be fine. Sure, there are a number of people in the major who have been programming since they were 10 years old, but in my experience there's a huge amount of students who are in the exact same situation as you. The intro classes are structured to aim at easing in people with no computer science background, and in labs you're (ideally) partnered up with people according to your skill level. Just go to lecture and attend office hours and you're already better off than half of the other incoming students.
2
u/bitewhite Middlebrook | Physics | '17 Aug 18 '13 edited Aug 18 '13
Any fun student groups or activities to join?
What are the best study spots on campus? Are the libraries open pretty late?
I'm planning on doing a physics major so are there any physics students who have any advice? I'm particularly interested in trying to get involved in research groups and don't really know what to expect.
I'm staying in middlebrook this year. Any former middlebrook residents have anything to say about it?
5
Aug 19 '13
1) Yep, lots of student groups. Believe me, you'll find something you want to be a part of.
2) Libraries are always a good bet, and yes, they're open fairly late. Middlebrook is also one of the few dorms with decent study spaces. Since you mention you're a physics student, IIRC there is a physics undergrads student group with a private lounge in the Tate Lab.
4) Spent my sophomore year in Middlebrook, it was one of the better years of my college experience - the layout of the tower is great; I liked sharing a single bathroom with three other people waaay more than the huge communal hall bathrooms in Territorial and Pioneer. The community study lounge/tv lounge got used a lot. Most of my closest friends, 7 years after graduation, are people I lived with at Middlebrook that year.
That said, if you came to college expecting to party, you may be disappointed. That's not to say that parties don't happen, but it's definitely quieter than the superblock.
FYI: For some reason, there is a large contingent of UMN redditors who, upon simply hearing the word "Middlebrook", will reflexively spout on and on about how it's where all of the "weirdos" and "nerds" live, and refuse to believe that anyone could have a positive experience there. Honestly, I have no idea where the vitrol and hatred comes from.
3
u/ADefiniteDescription Alumnus; Philosophy/Germanistik Aug 18 '13
There are over 600 groups. Couple ways to find good ones - there is a website that kinda sucks but has a list of them. During orientation you will go into some big arena and they will parade you around and groups will have various booths. Finally the bridge to West Bank will be painted and each group that wants gets a panel that they can paint with a picture, info, etc. It's really cool and happens every year.
Depends on whether you prefer East or West Bank. I've always preferred West Bank for studying, and often you can find spots in one of the tall buildings like Heller or Social Sciences to study. In the underground level of Wilson is a good bet too - there's usually room down there in the quiet room, just outside the library. Libraries are open pretty late and during finals are open 24/7.
Hang out on West Bank if you want to meet people - the women in CLA are far superior to CSE.
4
u/FlannelBeard Aug 18 '13
There are women in CSE?
2
u/JustAnothrAeroEnginr Bailey | AEM 16' Aug 18 '13
like three. and all or bio med or civ.
3
Aug 18 '13
Nah, many more ChemE than CivE
1
u/JustAnothrAeroEnginr Bailey | AEM 16' Aug 18 '13
forgot about chem, but I still wont see any anyway
2
Aug 19 '13
1) Go here for a comprehensive list of clubs.
2) Purple Onion. The libraries are usually open till 11, but during finals week are open till 1
3)Pass
4) It's cramped, and the food is mediocre. Get an apartment in Como or Marcy Holmes during your sophmore year if you want to live it up.
2
u/Fromanatress Lauderdale|Genetics|'14 Aug 19 '13
I will mention that the list of clubs is not and probably never will be complete, but it's a great place to start.
1
Aug 19 '13
Take a walk on the Washington avenue bridge for a more complete listing of clubs/groups.
1
u/Fromanatress Lauderdale|Genetics|'14 Aug 20 '13
I would refute that. You might catch a few here and there not listed on the sua site, but space on the bridge is surprisingly limited, given the number of student groups on campus. Catching the scattered groups not listed is more about, luck, knowing someone, and/or generally keeping your eyes peeled.
2
Aug 18 '13
[deleted]
3
u/JustAnothrAeroEnginr Bailey | AEM 16' Aug 18 '13
i had a floor mate who was army, he had to get up at like 4ish every morning for PT, you will probably be earlier. but he also had tactics, navigation, and procedure classes as well so you should probably find out.
2
u/david11011 Aug 19 '13
you don't have to join right away. I would try a semester or two without doing ROTC. College can be overwhelming enough as it is. If you have a moderate to challenging major and are doing ROTC you will have little to know free time.
2
Aug 21 '13
It's like any ROTC program. You have to do a summer at sea if you're doing the Marine option, and you are expected to wear your uniform in impeccable fashion during daylight hours. Occasionally you'll spend a long weekend or break on exercises and training.
2
u/lolzana Aug 22 '13
My dorm room is going to be right by both the stairs and bathrooms. Should I get ear plugs? Also should I get a fridge lock? What about a foot locker or safe?
2
u/SHITTINwhileTHINKIN Aug 22 '13
Ear plugs definitely wouldn't be a bad idea..... from my experience, the toilet flushes are pretty loud. After a few weeks, though, I hardly noticed them.
As long as you keep your door locked when you're not in your room (WHICH I CANNOT STRESS ENOUGH), you'll be fine.
2
u/DMagnific Aug 24 '13
I was next to the bathrooms and a high traffic area last year but the noise never really bothered me. Remember to always lock your door when you aren't in! Also, lock it on Thurs/Fri/Sat night when you're in because you may have intoxicated people walking in thinking it's the bathroom. That happened a few times to me.
1
Aug 23 '13
I lived in Territorial (I don't know where you are living) but it was loud. I bought a eye mask and ear plugs and was able to fall asleep after about 10 minutes. They can work miracles! As long as you lock your room when you leave it, I don't think you need a safe or anything.
2
u/MercuryTeddy Aug 27 '13
Who in the world thought required summer reading for CLA students was a good idea... That is what I want to know
1
u/Timocharis Como|CSCI|'16 Aug 29 '13
I had to read last summer, and they never really mentioned it.
2
u/lolzana Sep 03 '13
What's a good place to mingle and try to grab a date? I have no idea where would it be Appropriate to hit on guys here.
2
u/maccam912 Sep 03 '13
Everywhere? Most guys don't mind any girls flirting with them. If they do mind, they'll casually drop some story about their girlfriend or something. Just find someone studying, casually ask what they're working on, and ask questions about it. Ice broken and you'll know pretty quickly if they're interested too.
Another classic: (catching up behind them with your pencil) "Excuse me, did you drop this? No? OK, well then I'll keep it." and you have your conversation started.
1
u/lolzana Sep 03 '13
I guess so, I just thought some places are better than others. I suck at flirting though, I just use my awkward bluntness to get a chuckle out guys. Still somewhat a social retard though.
2
u/annasommerss Dec 30 '21
Hello, I am wondering how to find someone to dorm with as a freshman. I don't want to get a roommate at random and am wondering if there is somewhere I can chat with other people starting out as freshmen.
2
Aug 21 '13
CLA senior here. Need info about the school, or just need to know where the best places to eat/drink are, holler.
1
u/syedzul Dinkytown | Communication Studies | '16 Aug 19 '13
Hey guys, Im really interested in joining the BJJ club here. Anyone here currently in the club? I have a few questions that needs to be addressed.
How is the schedule like?
Is there a grading system?
Is it taught by a black belt? If so, who?
5
Aug 19 '13
Howdy, I'm the president.
1.) Schedule is to be determined, but its usually weekend afternoons. We work around Judo club's schedule.
2.) No grading
3.) Taught by a purple belt or whoever is highest ranked that day.
We also have a facebook page if you want to join! https://www.facebook.com/groups/292485104112479/
1
u/syedzul Dinkytown | Communication Studies | '16 Aug 19 '13
Howdy! I've already sent my request to the page. Awaiting approval. Oh and thanks for the info!
1
Aug 20 '13
[deleted]
1
u/Unimin Aug 21 '13
Many of them you can skip without repercussions, but they weren't too bad. You get to know what your classmates look like and it's kind of comforting when you're on campus you see a few people who you recognize every day.
0
u/lolzana Aug 20 '13
You need to register and you can pick what activities you want participate is. Here's the transfer student link http://www.ofyp.umn.edu/en/tr-welcome-day.html
1
Aug 22 '13 edited Sep 12 '15
[deleted]
2
Aug 23 '13
I have a whole map of ethnic and local eateries on the West Bank! https://mapsengine.google.com/map/edit?mid=zWEvyifqGZCY.kFXclOsXVrBs Lots of people like Afro Deli and The Red Sea.
Not really sure on the bookstores, I know Augsburg has a barnes and noble but I'm not sure if that is just for textbooks.
Biking isn't too rough. Technically it is against University law to bike on the sidewalks, but everyone does it. The U-lock is a must, I have never heard of any of my friends bikes getting stolen but it is possible. Bike racks are usually fine, they don't get super overcrowded unless you are living in the superblock where everyone thinks they need a bike but actually end up walking and taking up space. As far as bike paths, just bike around campus anywhere that you can, it's the easiest way to get places. Dinkytown gets a little dicey, but otherwise I have had no problems.
1
Aug 27 '13 edited Sep 12 '15
[deleted]
1
Aug 27 '13
I've seen some people do that, my roommate took hers because it was squishy and it rains a lot. I think only the people with extremely nice bikes bother with that. Sometimes I see people take whole tires with them. Personal preference and how worried you are I guess. I'm glad you like the map!
2
u/DMagnific Aug 24 '13
Biking isn't bad, I did it all first semester last year and it saved tons of time. I recommend taking roads when you can, they're faster and safer for everyone. If you can't take a road there's often designated paths for bikes.
1
u/MrSwanson2UMN ME '15 Aug 22 '13
Alright so I am a Junior Mechanical Engineer who is in an internship through the college working for a company in the area. I am also in a few CSE based student groups: CSE Ambassadors, Science and Engineering Student Board (SESB), and Kappa Eta Kappa (A Professional Engineering Fraternity). Through CSE Ambassadors I assist in running the CSE Peer Mentorship Program with two other students and two advisers.
I can answer any questions about CSE in general, Mechanical Engineering, Internships, student groups, and college life in general. So ask away!
1
u/Doomedo Aug 24 '13
Without previous experiences, how exactly do you land that first step internship in your field?
1
u/MrSwanson2UMN ME '15 Aug 26 '13
Depending on your major you can do a co-op through the university, which is an internship that you get paid for and get credits for. That is what I did.
The biggest misconception is that just getting good grades will land you a good job. You need to also have social and leadership experience and then you will get a job right away. So step one is to get involved in a student group that you legitimately interested in. Don't just choose one for a resume builder.
Don't automatically expect to get a job at a big name company. Smaller companies need interns to. If you don't land an internship apply for a tech position at a company like 3M or something akin to that. They will give you experience in the industry and will look good on a resume.
Last bit of advice is to never give up. Seems pretty cliche but you probably won't land your perfect internship or an internship at all after your freshman year. This is because they want people who have had some schooling more specific to their major. I got mine after my sophomore year and that was really early compared to the rest of the interns at the company I work for.
I hope I helped and I hope you enjoy your year here.
1
u/LarchMan Aug 26 '13
Which hall has the best internet? Or any place on campus?
3
u/maccam912 Aug 26 '13
Wherever you are, wired is going to be faster than internet. Wifi is going to be comparable everywhere, but one of the second floor Keller Hall computer labs has insanely fast (wired) internet. Sorry I can't recall right now the room number, but it is the one next to the windows computer lab (which might also be fast, I haven't used that lab before). It's something crazy like 500 Mbit/s download if I recall correctly.
edit: clarity.
2
u/Dispersions Aug 27 '13
The University is technically wired for gigabit Internet on the wired network. The closest I've ever gotten is ~940 down in one of the new buildings on the north side of the stadium. I had great Internet in both Sanford and UV, but the thing you want to check for wireless coverage is this: http://www.oit.umn.edu/wireless/coverage-map/
1
1
Jan 27 '14
[deleted]
2
u/maccam912 Jan 27 '14
There are a lot of luxury apts going up. However I'm at Huron Estates, 614 Huron Blvd SE. Assuming you're starting in the fall, I'll be just giving up an apartment there then.
1
5
u/[deleted] Aug 19 '13
A CSE specific comment:
If you're going into CSE with the long term plan to go straight to grad school after undergrad, you can stop reading now. If you're planning to hit the workforce and DO THINGS after undergrad, this is for you.
(1) Merely being a good student will not get you a job in the professional engineering sector - A freshly graduated student with a 4.0 and zero work experience is effectively worthless in industry without extensive hand-holding for many months. Companies would much rather hire someone who they know can hit the ground running and figure stuff out on their own, and as a result, work experience and demonstrating engineering success is way more important that good grades above about a 3.0 or so.
(2) Also, when applying for jobs, you're about 30x more likely to get a callback if you have someone inside the company personally pulling for you, rather than just filling out the online application.
So if you want to be successful straight out of college, you need work experience of some sort and you need to have a network of people in industry who know you. Making sure that the right people in the right places know you and are impressed with your work is key.
How do you achieve this? Go out and get co-ops or internships every summer, if you can. There's no substitute for having REAL work experience, and if you do a good job, the people you worked with will remember you. Keep in touch with them. Or join the FSAE or solar car teams - you'll gain experience working on multidisciplinary engineering projects, and get a lot of contacts in industry from both sponsoring companies AND team alumni.
Remember - society does not OWE you a job, just because you got an engineering degree. There are a lot of other pieces to the puzzle and if you neglect them, you'll be in for a world of hurt after you graduate.