Writer: Kendall Shostak
Kelsey Ivancich-Osthof, University of Minnesota-Duluth (UMD)
The University of Minnesota-Duluth is a public university in Duluth, Minnesota. It is part of the University of Minnesota system and offers 16 bachelor's degrees in 88 majors, graduate programs in 25 different fields, a two-year program at the School of Medicine and a four-year College of Pharmacy program.
Average cost after aid: $17,000
Graduation rate: 59%
Acceptance rate: 79%
In your personal experience, why do students come to your school?
I think students come to UMD for the size and location. Duluth is a pretty big tourist destination but also a really relaxing city with so much to do. Whether it be the outdoors (fishing, camping, hiking, skiing), or even enjoying the local restaurants and activities, there is always something to do, but on a less busy scale.
If you were to choose the school you represent, why would you go to that school?
I love Duluth. Location is a big thing for me. I grew up in NE Minnesota, so it was a city I spent a lot of time in. That and it's part of the University of Minnesota, but not as large and overwhelming as the Twin Cities campus. On our campus you get to know your professors, and they get to know you. They teach every single class. We don't have TAs or graduate students lecturing, so it's great to be taught by the best of the best of their field.
What part of your campus stands out the most?
Our Weber Music Hall is one of the most distinct buildings on campus. It was designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli. The Weber is one of the best intimate music venues in the country.
Fun facts about the college (or anything else you want to add)?
We are connected by a skyway and concourse system, and can get around our campus without stepping foot outside. Comes in handy during the winters! Lake Superior is also literally your backyard and the majority of our campus has a lake view to enjoy! Finally, our men's hockey team have been back to back national champions and are currently ranked #1 in the nation. Just needed to brag a bit there!
Ryan Bottimore, University of Oregon (UO)
The University of Oregon is a public flagship research university in Eugene, Oregon. Founded in 1876, the institution's 295-acre campus is along the Willamette River.
Average cost after aid: $16,000
Graduation rate: 72%
Acceptance rate: 84%
In your personal experience, why do students come to your school?
To preface this conversation, I want to address college fit. I think it is important for a student to visit, to do research, make a pros and cons list, and to inquire about different colleges and universities. It is all about finding the right fit, not only for academic and personal reasons, but financially as well. There are various reasons why a student may want to attend the University of Oregon and it all varies. Some students want to attend an institution based on their academic program, and we have top ranked programs across campus. Some students want a research-based institution and we have the prestigious honor of being a member of the Association of America Universities where we conduct interdisciplinary research. And some students want a strong and successful sports school, and our teams, including our mascot, are very recognizable and memorable.
If you were to choose the school you represent, why would you go to that school?
I actually attended the institution so I am a proud UO Alum and Oregon Duck! There were various reasons why I chose to go to the UO. First, the inclusive nature and overall friendly energy was inviting. Second, the location of campus is in proximity to many outdoor recreational activities. Third, financial aid and scholarships. Fourth, the Oregon Community has so much pride and so much energy. And lastly, the opportunities available on and off of campus.
What part of campus stands out the most?
Taking this literally, I would say Hayward Field, our track and field stadium. We held the US Olympic Trials in 2020, and we built a brand new state-of-the-art facility suited for all, including Olympic athletes. If I did not take it literal, I would say the pride on campus. The Oregon Duck community is strong and proud. Anywhere you go, if you are wearing an Oregon "O" or a Duck, you will find other Oregon Duck fans who will make sure to let you know they are fans.
Fun Facts about the College
Fun Fact #1: We are the only college or university to ever have a Disney Character for a mascot–Donald Duck. Fun Fact #2: A UO physics professor has calculated that Oregon Football has pretty close to 10,000 different uniform combinations since December 2012. Fun Fact #3: The University of Oregon contains over 3,000 types of trees from 500 different species! You can even take a self-guided tree tour on our Be A Duck app! Fun Fact #4: The movie Animal House was filmed on our campus.