<p>I got accepted, and I've been hearing mixed reviews about them Twin Cities. I've heard it's both boring and exciting. The school boasts on how the location makes the school even more exciting. Is this true? I'm still trying to come to an ultimate decision. I'm coming from Orlando, but possibly deciding to move to MN for personal reasons...(YES, I know the weather is a problem, but I prefer cold over hot)</p>
<p>I’m not an expert, having been here just a week, but I’d say the Cities are pretty cool. There is a lot to explore if you have a bus pass and some initiative.</p>
<p>They are alright. Good for the midwest, but definitely not anywhere close to “similar” coastal cities like Seattle or Boston. People there aren’t especially accommodating to newcomers because 99% of the people there have lived their entire lives in MN, Iowa, the Dakotas, or Wisconsin. And the general attitude is always as if they have something to prove. Very defensive and passive aggressive.</p>
<p>For a city stuck in the middle of suburbs and farmland, it is alright. But once you know your way around you realize just how small the “city” is. It is nothing like coastal cities or even Chicago. When the biggest news everyday is the weather, or a new gas station opening up on Fairview, you are in MN.</p>
<p>Thanks so much for the insights. I don’t understand why the school boasts on the cities if based on the review you guys are giving is like that? Lol. I was at one point excited to attend mainly because of the cities, but now not so sure… 
I thought it would be college friendly…however, I’m hearing from more and more people that the cities are bland.</p>
<p>It’s all about perspective. The Cities are not NYC. That’s fine by me, as I don’t like NYC. Compared to the rest of the Big 10 - Minnesota’s competition - the location in the heart of a major metro area is unique. If you can’t find something to do here, you aren’t going to have better luck elsewhere.</p>
<p>BTW, “college friendly” means cheap and not car-dependent. You could do worse on cost, and the transit system is good. Plus there are many trails.</p>
<p>Hmmm…a quick search indicates that DesertFox attends Wisconsin! So take that into consideration.</p>
<p>Being from Chicago, I was impressed with the Twin Cities in terms of cleanliness, things to do, facilities, ease of mobility, and safety. I think the school is uniquely situated in comparison to many other Big 10’s that are located in college towns.</p>
<p>It seems like the best of both worlds to have the university and the city. The opportunities from the companies in the Twin Cities also present a great opportunity for internships and jobs.</p>
<p>I agree with freecell…the Twin Cities are VERY different from NYC, Boston, LA, etc. and to many people that’s a GREAT thing!! I find it highly amusing for anyone to knock the supposed “attitude” of Midwest people. Having spent a fair amount of time in most of the major metropolitan areas around the country, folks in the Midwest are far and away the most down to earth, friendly, and non-pretentious you’ll ever meet. If either of the “coastal” attitudes is what you prefer, then the TC’s are probably not for you.</p>
<p>Minneapolis-St Paul has outstanding shopping (unless you demand Fifth Ave or Rodeo Dr), a huge selection of restaurants, a vibrant arts and theater district, teams in all 4 major professional sports, and a great public transportation system. Combine all that with the opportunities available at the U and it’s an incredible package.</p>
<p>Of course…if an outstanding education from one of the best value per dollar universities in the country in a major metropolitan area that offers everything most people could ask for doesn’t interest you…then by all means look elsewhere.</p>
<p>A metro area of 3.5 million people with a Big 10 university with a city that is actually CLEAN? Oh no…</p>
<p>Honestly, the Twin Cities are not Boston, NYC, or Chicago. They are compared normally against Seattle, Portland, Denver, etc. You get the best of both worlds: College and an inexpensive city that has a lot to offer. You have nightlife, pro sports, bike and walking trails galore, many many lakes, friendly people, etc. Orlando may have Disney, but I’ll take the TC any day of the week. What’s your actual problem with the TC?</p>
<p>@Jota,</p>
<p>It’s not that I have a problem with the TC, it’s just I don’t really know it that well to be judging. I’ve only been there like twice…first time ever seeing snow in my life was last time I went which was about in january…amazing experience lol.</p>
<p>It’s just going to be a big change for me. I’m a bit scared, and heard reviews that the cities are not all the hype and attention it’s getting from the school…so I just wanted to hear more opinions! But thanks so much guys! It means the world =) If you have ANY other comments, suggestions, opinions, etc. pleeeeeeeeeeease reply! haha. </p>
<p>How do you like it so far jota? I’ll be transferring for the Spring in Jan. I heard it’s not really a good thing to come in the middle of the year, but I need to escape from Orlando ASAP …is that true? do you think I’d be at a BIG disadvantage? lol</p>
<p>this university of awesome great education and best student service</p>
<p>I’ve grown up near Minneapolis, so I know a bit about it…</p>
<p>Public transportation is OK. There’s light rail and public buses. However, it’s nothing compared to a lot of cities, and it doesn’t really come out to the suburbs at all.</p>
<p>Minneapolis is the #1 city for biking, so if you’re the outdoorsy type, it’s a good thing. It also has a vibrant arts community, and the theaters and orchestra are great.</p>
<p>Personally, it’s my backup school because I think it’s almost too much in the city – but that can be a good thing based on your perspective. There’s plenty to do, if you decided to search for it. Although our sports teams all kind of suck… unless you like women’s basketball!</p>
<p>And if you’re transferring in the middle of the year… from Orlando… have fun with 30 below wind chill ;)</p>
<p>@mike - one of my best friends grew up with me in Washington and she now moved to Orlando. She’s going to UCF. Honestly, I visited both the Twin Cities and Orlando - and I really like the Twin Cities a ton more. Maybe it’s because I like snow more than the monsoon rain and heat in Florida lol but there really are amazing opportunities! The school is huge and it seemed really fun when I visited. Seattle, here in WA, is often compared to the TC but I really like the TC more… again, I guess it’s because of the weather. I like snow more than rain. Anyways, if I were you I’d come here and try something new! I really don’t think you’ll have to be afraid because it’s different. After you find friends you’re most likely gonna like it anyways. Good luck!</p>
<p>UMN ranks #9 in Princeton Review this year for “Great College Towns.”</p>