Does anyone know the student population for the University of Minnesota? I'm considering whether a large school is the right fit for me, so any insights on what it's like to be part of such a big community would be helpful.
The undergraduate student population at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities campus is approximately 30,000 students. Meanwhile, the university's total student population, including graduate students, is around 50,000. Being part of such a large community can be a double-edged sword.
On the one hand, there are abundant resources, opportunities, and activities. The UMN offers hundreds of student organizations, from political clubs to dance teams. Moreover, because there are so many students, the university attracts many employers for career fairs and has a broad alumni network, which can be beneficial for internships or job placements. You'll get exposed to diverse viewpoints, given the large student body.
On the other hand, some students might feel that it's easy to get lost in the crowd at such a large school. Large class sizes, particularly in introductory courses, can also be a concern - though oftentimes there are smaller discussion sections led by teaching assistants.
If you are considering a large school, it's important to be proactive and take advantage of the resources available. You should be comfortable advocating for yourself, whether it's seeking out academic support or getting involved in extracurriculars because opportunities won't necessarily be handed to you.
Remember, you can also explore the community and see for yourself through campus visits or virtual tours offered by the university.
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