on Minnesota Colleges, College Admissions, and College Life
Minnesota Colleges and Universities
by Ysolt Usigan
Nicknamed the North Star State and Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota got its name from the Dakota Sioux Indian word, "minisota," which means "sky-tinted waters." This makes for some interesting trivia for those of you considering attending Minnesota colleges. Before the Europeans came, Minnesota supported major Indian tribes Dakota (Sioux) and the Ojibwa (Chippewa). How does that sound to you history and anthropology buffs?
Not only are students at universities in Minnesota sitting atop a wealth of cultural history and tradition, but the state's geography is also conducive to the student lifestyle. Several bodies of water surround the area, and many people visit Minnesota to fish and seek solitude -- a tranquil backdrop that students find perfect for their studies. In fact, its many lakes and rivers provide more shoreline than California, Florida, and Hawaii combined!
Students at universities in Minnesota who plan on settling there post-Graduation should take note that the major state industries include tourism, agriculture, computers and services, health care and medical equipment, forest and forestry products, and printing and publishing, just to name a few. Wherever your academics lead you, there is sure to be a Career waiting for you upon graduation.
Minnesota's twin cities -- Minneapolis and St. Paul -- lie on each side of the Mississippi River. They're home to great museums, one of the most active theater and fine arts communities in the nation, and miles of climate-controlled skyway systems that enable residents, tourists, and of course, students to shop, work, and dine without stepping outdoors during the harsh winter weather.
Some of Minnesota's other attractions include the Minnesota Zoo, Cathedral of St. Paul, Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum, Mill City Museum, Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Minnesota Museum of American Art, and Science Museum of Minnesota. There's also the Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden for prospective art students. You could consider these places targets for sightseeing, or perhaps just ways to distract yourself from your studies. Either way, you're sure to enjoy them.
With Minnesota's thriving Business and commerce, there are plenty of options that await you upon graduation. Many graduates have gone on to work in Minnesota's business, marketing, and computer industries.
State Aid Agency: Minnesota Higher Education Office
College Prepaid/Savings Program: Minnesota 529 Savings Program
Popular Majors at Minnesota Colleges
Health and Allied Services, Engineering and Engineering Technology, Arts: Visual and Performing, Business and Commerce, and Social Sciences and History.
Source: College Bound Seniors 2005, The College Board