We're back at the Minnesota State Fair!

Time to say “See You Later”

2010-09-08T16:29:00.001-05:00

The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth had many fairgoers who received good information about our 25 two-year and seven four-year institutions. They wanted to know about the 3,800 programs that are offered and how to pick the best school for their children.

Also, we were surprised that so many grandparents are helping to pay college costs for their grandchildren. One grandfather told me he had helped all seven of his grandchildren. What a wonderful thing to be able to do. I think Minnesota will be better off if more individuals complete some higher education program.

This year we promoted programs and careers related to STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering and math. In recent years, the United States has fallen behind on producing graduates from these disciplines. As part of the display, students from the engineering program at Minnesota State University, Mankato, one of our institutions, constructed a 20-foot steel bridge that was in the booth. Another example of STEM-related programs came from Century College in White Bear Lake, which has a “Fab Lab,” a fabrication lab where students can design and “print” prototypes in 3-D.

Although the State Fair is over and it will be another year before the Great-Minnesota Get-Together, you don’t have to wait another year to learn more about higher education.

Whether you are looking for a two-year or four-year degree, a graduate program, a diploma, or a specific training program, we have many opportunities. With 54 campuses in the state, we are closer to home than you think.

Visit the website www.mnscu.edu and learn more about what the Minnesota State College and Universities have to offer you.

Transferring from a Two-Year College to a Four-Year State University

2010-09-03T14:37:00.011-05:00

Erin Eichten, an admissions counselor at Southwest Minnesota State University

I always thought transferring was difficult, but when I did transfer, I discovered how easy it is. I attended Ridgewater College, a community and technical college, and graduated with two-year degrees in liberal arts, and marketing and sales management.

Then I transferred to Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall. All of my liberal art courses transferred and most of my marketing courses did, too. The professors worked with me so I didn’t have to take the same marketing courses twice. Now, I am about to complete a four-year degree in marketing.

Sue Collins, president of the Northeast Higher Education District, a consortium of Hibbing Community College, Itasca Community College, Mesabi Range Community and Technical College, Rainy River Community College and Vermilion Community College, says: “We have advising, counseling and support services all devoted to helping students make decisions that prepare them for transfer. We encourage students to take the Minnesota transfer curriculum. With that package of coursework, transfer is guaranteed to any state university in Minnesota.”

Erin Eichten, an admission counselor at Southwest Minnesota State, knows the importance of making transferring easy for students to go from a two-year college to a four-year university. “This fall, over 200 students are transfer students who came from a two-year community college. Something that’s nice about going to a community college is that you can get your liberal arts or generals out of the way, especially if you are undecided.

That way you can save money and when you transfer to a four-year university you can focus on your major and finish it in two years.”

For more information visit www.mnscu.edu or stop by our booth at the State Fair in the Education building.

Choosing the Perfect College

2010-09-01T14:48:00.007-05:00

Who said choosing the right college was easy? Sometimes it is, but there are a few things you need to know to pick the perfect college for you.

Knowing what you want to study always helps to find the best fit. A good first step is to find out whether a college or university offers a program that you want to study and what degrees they offer.

Another thing to consider is whether you want to attend a big or small college, and one that is private, public or for-profit. President Sue Hammersmith from Metropolitan State University in St. Paul and Minneapolis, says: “If you are going to go to college, you will be investing a lot of time and money. You want to make sure you are getting value for that investment. Do a campus visit and see if you feel comfortable. Different campuses have different atmospheres and that makes a big difference to students.”

The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities offer the best value. How do I know? I went to two public institutions – Ridgewater College, which has campuses in Willmar and Hutchison and Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall. For me, the investment was definitely worth the education.

The 32 Minnesota State Colleges and Universities offer a broad range of programs. Thousands of programs are available that lead students to become engineers, scientists, technicians, mechanics, artists, musicians, teachers, nurses, to name a few. The 25 two-year colleges offer degrees, diplomas and certificates that can be completed in two years or less. Most of them also offer the first two years of a four-year degree. Then you can transfer to a state university to complete a bachelor’s degree. With 54 campuses located throughout Minnesota, the colleges and universities are accessible. You can attend a campus close to home or venture to another part of the state.

For more information visit www.mnscu.edu or stop by our booth at the State Fair in the Education building.

Minnesota TRiO, a Tool for Your College Box

2010-08-30T18:38:00.001-05:00

Fairgoers were interested in finding out about TRiO, a set of federally funded programs that help low-income, students of color and first-generation Americans prepare for college and succeed in college once they get there.

Janet Touer, director of the Educational Opportunity Center at Minneapolis Community and Technical College, said the center connects students with the TRiO program that can help them the best.

One of the largest TRiO programs is Student Support Services. Twenty-two Minnesota State College and Universities have Student Support Services programs, which provide tutoring, counseling and instruction to help students stay in college until they earn baccalaureate degrees. Upward Bound is another TRiO program, and it is available at 15 colleges and universities within the system.

Upward Bound helps young students to prepare for higher education. Participants receive instruction in literature, composition, mathematics, and science on college campuses after school, on Saturdays and during the summer. Other TRiO programs include Educational Talent Search and Veterans Upward Bound.

Stop by our booth this week and visit with one of the TRiO representatives to find out if you are eligible for services from one of these programs or go to www.mntrio.org for more information.

“Go Places” helps you find where you want to go

2010-08-27T12:16:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was a busy first day at the State Fair. Hundreds of people walked through the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth in the Education Building on Cosgrove Street.

I was excited to see so many people ask for information about college, whether it was for their children, grandchildren, friends, family members or even themselves.

I gave them copies of “Go Places,” a publication with information about every institution in the system and the programs that each offers. Brochures also are available for each college and university if you’re looking for a specific one.

“Go Places” has lots of useful information. It tells you how to prepare for college and ways to pay for college. And best of all, it is free. High school counselors can order them for no charge to give to students.

“Go Places” can be helpful starting from page one. One of the first pages shows a map of the system’s 54 campuses. You can learn about the 25 two-year community and technical colleges, and the seven four-year universities.

One of my favorite parts is the “College Cost Comparison” chart, which shows how our 25 community and technical colleges and seven state universities compare to the University of Minnesota, private schools and private trade schools in Minnesota

Don’t know what to study? Don’t worry. “Go Places” shows you hundreds of programs that we offer. It also has interesting information about each college and university. No wonder everyone took a “Go Places” with them.

Stop by our booth when you go to the fair. This is the real deal. “Go Places” really means you can go places. Or visit www.mnscu.edu for more information.

Tomorrow is the first day of the Great Minnesota Get-together

2010-08-25T11:57:00.011-05:00

Hi, my name is Víctor Ramírez. I am a student at Southwest Minnesota State University, one of the seven state universities in the Minnesota Colleges and Universities system. I am about to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in speech communication with an emphasis on public relations.

Currently I am working with the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system office as a student intern. One of my passions is higher education, so join me on my journey through the State Fair to find out about higher education and its importance to all Minnesotans.

If you visit the State Fair, stop by the system’s booth in the Education Building. This year’s Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth features a 20-foot-long steel bridge that was designed and constructed by engineering students and faculty at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I visited the students when they were constructing the bridge, and I was impressed with the dedication and work they were putting into building the bridge. They were excited to represent the engineering students in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system and show their work.

The bridge highlights the system’s initiative to encourage more students to take STEM courses. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. College graduates who can reason, solve problems and innovate using math, science, engineering and technology are increasingly in demand. Find out what STEM programs are offered by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. Learn what you need to know to build a bridge.

The booth also will feature a “Fab House,” designed as an easy-to-assemble “instant shelter” after Hurricane Katrina, and smaller prototypes “printed” in 3D from glue, cornstarch and plaster. The student projects were made at Century College’s Digital Fabrication Lab, known as the Fab Lab, the only one of its kind in the state.

Check out my blog every day for updates, news and other topics related to higher education. Learn about financial aid, student support services, admission requirements and the wide variety of programs at the state colleges and universities.

I will be talking to fairgoers who visit the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth. You also can find information about the 32 state colleges and universities, academic programs, tuition and many other things. You could even win a prize by playing the “Wheel of Luck” game.

Remember, the State Fair begins Thursday and ends Labor Day Sept. 6. Visit us and find out what the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities can offer you.

August 26-Labor Day, Sept. 6, 2010

2010-08-11T13:10:00.004-05:00

See you at the fair!

Wrapping up for the year

2009-09-07T17:45:00.020-05:00

Chancellor James McCormick helped run the spin-to-win game for visitors to the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system booth on Monday.

The State Fair is in its final day for the 2009 season. It is everyone’s last chance to roam about the fairgrounds eating foods that normally would make anyone question their actual ingredients. It is also the last day to pick up helpful information at our Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth.

Visitors tried out the lighted campus map on the last day of the fair.

One event that will definitely be missed after today will be the fun all of us had playing the spin-to-win game with all of you who stopped by and participated for free prizes all through the fair. A special thanks should be given to all of our presidents that took time out of their very busy schedules to come down to the State Fair and represent their respective colleges and universities and mingle with everyone who came out.

We appreciate all the volunteers who worked at the booth this year. It was a great job done by everyone to help out those interested in the institutions represented in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. We look forward to seeing all of you at next year’s fair.
- Justin

Visitors keep coming and coming ....

2009-09-04T15:36:00.031-05:00

Jacob Englund, a student member of the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, helps a fairgoer with questions about college.

Another beautiful Friday here at the great Minnesota get together, and another busy afternoon at the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth. Throughout the week, our booth staff have been noticing large numbers walking through the Education Building, but we were never quite sure just how large those numbers were….until today, when we received information from the Minnesota State Fair Daily News newsletter saying as of Wednesday, Sept. 2, the State Fair attendance is up 99,558 over this time last year. No wonder all of our brand new shiny gold pencils have been flying off the displays so quickly!

Students use the lighted Minnesota map to find which campuses offer various academic programs.

It has been interesting helping out today on the Wheel of Luck, where we get a chance to find out where everyone is from and how far they have traveled to come to the State Fair. You always have the typical Twin Cities folks as well as ones from places such as Duluth, Alexandria, Rochester or Bemidji. Well, today I overheard a group discussing that they had come all the way the from the Peach State of Georgia! I guess you can’t get a deep fried Twinkie or walleye on a stick just anywhere.

Spinning to win popular with fairgoers

2009-09-02T15:39:00.031-05:00

Today was filled with visits from some very important Minnesota State Colleges and Universities members. Not only did we have the opportunity to visit with three presidents, but also the chancellor of all 32 state colleges and universities, James McCormick, who stopped by to greet future students and fairgoers.

With presidents Kevin Kopischke of Alexandria Technical College, Larry Litecky of Century College and Richard Shrubb of Minnesota West Community and Technical College all in the booth early this afternoon, you could guess they would be vying for chances to host our popular “spin-to-win” game and give away prizes from each of their respective schools.

President Richard Shrubb, center, and volunteer Craig Fautsch, right, from the Office of the Chancellor, watches with a contestant to see where the wheel would stop. If it lands on a state college or university name with a star, the contestant is a winner.

President Larry Litecky, center, visits with contestants spinning the wheel.

At left, President Kevin Kopischke meets a young contestant.

The best moment had to be President Kopischke’s trivia challenge questions for contestants who landed one spot away from the star on our spin-to-win game board. Contestants were stumped time and time again when asked to name one of the lakes in Alexandria.

One contestant finally broke the streak of wrong answers when she said “Lake Darling!”

Stop by and see us – you never know what you will learn next. - Justin

Tuition and the Economy

2009-09-01T19:35:00.004-05:00

Since the fair’s opening, the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities information booth has been an important stop for people who have lost their jobs. The system has prepared resources for retraining and job preparation. Due to the current economic situation, the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities are offering several accelerated certificate programs. These programs and many other certificate and diploma programs are intended to train people for entry-level to higher-level positions and can be completed in one year or less. To view a full list of offerings go to www.mnscu.edu and scroll down to the short-term training link, then download a chart and check out the other information.

Web sites that have been a wonderful resource include:

The Department of Employment and Economic Development: http://www.deed.state.mn.us/dw/index.htm

ISEEK: http://www.iseek.org/jobs/losejob.html

For those just entering college, the system's cost comparison chart has been a great way to talk with visitors about how their education will affect their finances. The chart lays out the annual costs of our 32 state colleges and universities as well as the annual costs of private trade schools, colleges and universities. I have had the opportunity to talk with many fairgoers about the importance of college affordability, and the chart is also a great way for the parent to start the conversation with their student(s).

Please stop by our booth to obtain copies of the cost comparison chart and information about short-term programs.
-Emily

Crowds interested in learning about college opportunities

2009-08-30T15:50:00.022-05:00

The fair continues to attract large numbers of people despite the cold weather yet again. From the start of the day, we have been flying through our Minnesota State Colleges and Universities pencils. Everyone is stocking up on those back-to-school supplies. The crowds at the booth have been keeping us very busy informing everyone on how important education is and how our colleges and universities can give them a bright future.

From right, President Don Supalla and Mike Bequette from Rochester Community and Technical College visit with a young fairgoer.

Today we had President Don Supalla of Rochester Community and Technical College visit us at the booth. He said enrollment is up almost 10 percent this fall at the college, and they even had to expand their main parking lots to accommodate the large increase in students.

Bemidji State University President Jon Quistgaard meets visitors at the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth in the Education Building.

The afternoon brought a small rise in temperature and a welcoming visit from President Jon Quistgaard of Bemidji State University. He had some fun with the spin-to-win game while interviewing contestants as they tested their luck for many of the great prizes given away every hour here at our booth.

President Quistgaard leads contestants in the popular "Wheel of Luck" while telling them about Bemidji State University.

The literature racks in the booth offer information about all of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

It has been very pleasing to see so many people stopping by with questions and concerns and obtaining brochures and booklets of information that are available for free. With 32 different colleges and universities on 54 campuses, we have a lot of brochures to choose from, and we hope all of you come down to the fair and stop by and visit.
- Justin

Meet college, university presidents in our exhibit

2009-08-29T17:19:00.011-05:00

The day was off to a crowded but chilly start at “The great Minnesota get together.” Early morning temperatures left fairgoers wanting to start off their day inside until the sun warmed things up. Standing in line before the 9 a.m. opening of the Education Building, some were discussing how a Spam breakfast sandwich from the stand nearby might taste.

We were excited to begin the day with President Robert Musgrove of Pine Technical College in Pine City, Minn. Two lucky contestants who participated in our spin-to-win “Wheel of Luck” game received Pine Tech backpacks from the president himself.

Later in the afternoon, Winona State University brought several enthusiastic representatives including Seth Wing and John Kite, who helped with a few wheel spins as well. The crowd received a huge boost when Winona State President Judith Ramaley came in wearing purple from head to toe, still enjoying her school’s big season opening football win over nationally ranked Carson-Newman this past Thursday.

Our Second Life expert of the day, Ray Pascoe, was kept busy as he streamed a concert live on the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities "island" in Second Life with a guitarist who was playing from a basement in Canada! It showed everyone how the Second Life virtual world is connecting people from all over the world.

- Justin

Visitors from around the globe

2009-08-28T15:52:00.007-05:00

The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities exhibit at the fair is off to a busy start. The second day began with a downpour in the early morning. However, that didn’t stop fairgoers from standing outside the Education Building waiting for it to open at 9 a.m.

Despite this being the “Minnesota” State Fair, we have had many visitors from all over the world, including Wisconsin, Oregon, California and even Russia! Booth volunteer Nancy Lee got a surprise visit from her sister and mother-in-law, Oxana and Valentina, residents of Russia.

Our exhibit workers and volunteers are having the opportunity to visit with many people who are exploring the opportunity of college. We are supporting what the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities advertises, “Make college a part of your future!” Today, many presidents and representatives from our colleges and universities have visited with fairgoers in our booth, including presidents Cheryl Frank of Inver Hills Community College, Joe Opatz of Normandale Community College, Ann Wynia of North Hennepin Community College and Sue Hammersmith of Metropolitan State University.

Every day, hundreds of fairgoers have their highlights. It might be eating a foot-long hot dog, attending a concert or buying a cool necklace. Today, my highlight was the opportunity to speak with President Hammersmith from Metropolitan State University, where I have taken a course in the chemical dependency department. I was able to express my love for Metropolitan State and inform President Hammersmith that I found my professor to be not only a resource for future internships and volunteer possibilities but also an individual I consider a mentor.

I would definitely recommend stopping by our booth at the State Fair to talk to one of these representatives and presidents.

“Make college a part of your future!”

- Holly

First day at the 2009 State Fair

2009-08-27T17:10:00.023-05:00

This year at the Minnesota State Fair we have plenty of new features in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth. We have a fair crowd's favorite – brand new gold 2009-2010 pencils. In addition, we have new Go Places guidebooks about all 32 state colleges and universities, plus they have provided brochures specific to their campuses and programs.

Fairgoers use the interactive lighted map to find out which of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities campuses offer various academic programs.

Volunteer Shelly Siegel, representing the TRIO programs that help students succeed in college, talked with prospective students in our booth.

The Wheel of Luck is back for another year, too. The colleges and universities donated plenty of gifts for the contestants, who stand in line and cross their fingers in hopes of winning. If you previously were a contestant for the Wheel of Luck, you may remember the yellow stars that are attached to various schools' names on the wheel. If your spin lands on a star, you win one of the two "big" prizes, ranging from T-shirts or sweatshirts to water bottles and much more! And every contestant, every hour, is a winner of consolation prizes such as lip balm, computer cleaners or pens.

Another new feature in the booth is Second Life, an online interactive virtual world used in higher education. The Second Life display features a large plasma screen with computers provided for visitors to try out Second Life for themselves.

Trustee James Van Houten, a member of the Board of Trustees, learns how Second Life is used for unique educational experiences.

Hennepin Technical College President Cecilia Cervantes meets students eager to get a college backpack.

Come by our booth in the Education Building on Cosgrove Street, next to the Creative Activities Building, and find out more about opportunities in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

- Holly

" It's the last day at the fair!"

2008-09-01T17:01:00.008-05:00

Andrea Holz, a Hydrologist at from the National Weather Service
was busy answering questions today!

Due to recent concern over Hurricane Gustav, I decided to visit the National Weather Service booth in the Education Building. I was able to talk with Andrea Holz and Dan Luna,who both work at the National Weather Service in Chanhassen, Minnesota. Dan works as the head meteorologist, and Andrea is a hydrologist (a person who forecasts river stages). When asked if they were surprised at the severity of hurricanes in the past few years, Dan said, "It doesn't surprise me. What surprises me is the public interest in hurricanes."

For students interested in pursuing a weather science career, the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system offers four-year degrees in meteorology (St. Cloud State University) and environmental sciences (Bemidji State University; Minnesota State University, Mankato; Minnesota State University Moorhead; St. Cloud State University; Southwest Minnesota State University; and Winona State University).

It also was interesting to speak to Andrea about some of the things we can do as citizens to help the National Weather Service. To gauge the water levels, many people have rain gauges they monitor, which helps the weather center estimate the amount of rainfall throughout the state. Andea also explained that many volunteers work as skywarn spotters, who will call in to the center to report severe activity in their neighborhood. To learn more about weather in your area or about Hurricane Gustav, visit http://www.weather.gov/

I can't believe it's the last day of the fair already! It's been fun visiting with fairgoers as well as meeting guests who have helped out in the booth! I hope that you visit next year, and please visit us year round at www.mnscu.edu.

Rose and Bill Daly pose at the St.Cloud State Alumni booth, which is next to
the Minnesota State Colleges and University booth! Bill Daly graduated
from St.Cloud in 1970 with a degree in Sociology and is a retired after 30
years working as a social worker at the V.A Medical Hospital.

-- Emily

One popular item: Cost-comparison sheet

2008-08-31T22:19:00.005-05:00

Crowds filled the entryway of the Education Building this morning.

One more day left, and the education building is crowded with visitors. While some people grab Minnesota State Colleges and Universities gold pencils, others snatch up our gold cost comparison sheets! When considering college, the cost comparison sheet highlights the tuition cost per year for all of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities compared to University of Minnesota as well as private colleges. Rising tuition costs have been a hot topic for many students and parents, some wondering how they can afford an education. To the surprise of many visitors, our system offers tuition ranging from two-year colleges ($4,100 to $4,909) to four-year universities ($5,473 to $6,756).

A fairgoer checks out the system's college cost comparison sheet.

-- Emily

The final weekend begins

2008-08-30T23:17:00.010-05:00

Another busy day at the booth and in the education building!

It's the beginning of the last Saturday at the fair, and the beautiful weather continues!

Along with the crowd, we have received many wonderful questions about our programs. One of the most inspiring visitors was a woman who needed options for a student who dropped out of high school. The woman had met the 19-year-old only once, but nevertheless described her as "bright and if she could just get going, she has promising future ahead of her." She feared that the student would never get to college due to her situation.

Monique Wiley, a TRIO representative at Minneapolis Community and Technical College, explained the steps toward attaining a college education. First, she advised that a GED or high school diploma must be completed. After completion, the student can go to a Minnesota State College or University and connect with a TRIO representative, who then will help advise the student until they graduate from the system! It was encouraging to hear about the assistance TRIO can provide and to meet people like the woman who visited our booth who are determined to advocate for those who have become discouraged. To find a TRIO program near you visit www.mntrio.org/new/programs.html.

Fairgoers look through the brochures and information in the booth.

-- Emily

Ask Trustee McElroy!

2008-08-29T17:30:00.017-05:00

Today I was able to interview Trustee Dan McElroy who has been on the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Board of Trustees since 2006. He also serves as commissioner of the state Department of Employment and Economic Development. It was wonderful to speak with him about his experience in higher education and government and to get his perspective!

McElroy said the system's Go Places book has been a great resource in directing prospective students to colleges and universities that suit their interests, along with the iSEEK Web site (www.iseek.org).

Fairgoers check out the Cost Comparison Chart, which highlights the tuition of the 32 Minnesota State Colleges and Universities compared to the University of Minnesota and private colleges and universities throughout the state.

In speaking with prospective students, McElroy also likes to mention the statistic, "A person with their college degree makes 1 million dollars more in their lifetime than a person without their degree."

Visitors browse the literature racks for college information.

As we met with high schoolers, many of them were undecided on what career to pursue and unsure if they should go to college without knowing. McElroy's advice:

Start by going to the iSEEK Web site and take the aptitude survey.

Visit with a college admissions counselor or current student attending the school you are interested in.

During your senior year it may also be a great idea to enroll in PSEO (Post-Secondary Enrollment Options). PSEO may be a great way to see if a school is a right fit for you. For more information, visit http://www.mnscu.edu/students/specialprograms/pseo.htm.

His advice for seniors interested in getting their degree who may be apprehensive: Start with an online course, or try auditing a class to see what it' all about. Also, don't hesitate to visit with us!

Kathleen Nelson, president of Lake Superior College, visited with
prospective students at the booth today.

Lake Superior College President Kathleen Nelson and Pine Technical College
President Robert Musgrove enjoy their day answering questions at the booth!

Ridgewater College President Douglas Allen gives contestants the
thumbs up before hosting the Wheel of Luck.

-- Emily

2008-08-28T14:36:00.007-05:00

Today at the State Fair we had a slightly lower turnout, so I had a chance to learn about how we keep our great system running.

Melissa Fahning was here today to represent FAN, the Friends Action Network. FAN is an opportunity for students, faculty, alumni and community members to join together in a common effort to keep state tuition rates low.

Melissa Fahning, a government relations staff member in the
Office of the Chancellor, invites fairgoers to sign up for the Friends Action Network.

The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system does an incredible job at keeping tuition low, and at the same time, it provides excellent standards for each of its 32 institutions. To maintain the same level of quality and integrity, it is essential that the Minnesota Legislature continues to fund it. The FAN program provides members with information about how to let their respective district representatives know that education is important to them.

It is very easy to join and become a part of this movement to support higher education; just go to www.fan.mnscu.edu. I joined today, too.

-- Michael

A Little Rain and a Lot of Fun

2008-08-27T16:24:00.011-05:00

Steve Frantz, system director in the Office of the Chancellor, shows prospective
students the colleges and universities brochures available in the booth.

Early this morning we faced a sudden downpour, but the rain didn’t last. Fairgoers showed their dedication by once again, at the stroke of 9, pouring through the doors of the Education Building.

One of our first guests to arrive was Ruth Grendahl, a trustee on the board of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. She was eager to meet fairgoers and answer questions, and soon I had her helping out at the Wheel of Luck.

Trustee Ruth Grendahl of Apple Valley meets fairgoers.

Among others helping in the booth was Nardos Senbeta from the TRIO program. I learned that she is from Ethiopia and moved to the United States to go to school. She started out at Minneapolis Community and Technical College, earning a two-year degree, and then transferred to Augsburg College. After finishing her bachelor’s degree in business management, she started working for TRIO. It seems that she has found her calling because she has been working at TRIO for the last 14 years. Two years ago, she went back to study at Minnesota State University, Mankato and obtained her master’s in education leadership.

The TRIO program is designed to help low-income, first-generation college students, as well as veterans with the financial aspect of education. The program works with students as early as middle-school age all the way up through adulthood. Senbeta works in the Educational Opportunity Center, primarily with students age 19 and older. Just this one part of the program serves 3,000 students per year. The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities offer more than 40 TRIO programs statewide.

Nardos Senbeta tells a visitor about the TRIO programs that help students of all ages.

I also met with Trustee Dan McElroy, chair of the board’s academic and student affairs committee as well as commissioner of the Department of Employment and Economic Development. He told me that one of the things he is interested in is whether or not to expand Metropolitan State University. The population in the Twin Cities metro area is growing and so is the number of students who are college-bound.

Visitors to the system’s booth talk with Trustee Dan McElroy.

-- Michael

A State Fair regular’s last spin

2008-08-26T14:47:00.000-05:00

This morning, I learned that we were entertaining a very special guest. Cheryl Frank, outgoing president of Inver Hills Community College, was here to represent the college for her 12th and final year. I got a chance to speak with her for a few minutes about her experiences as president and her time spent at the State Fair these past 12 years. It was immediately evident that she was very proud of her school and had cherished the opportunity to serve.

The State Fair, she said, “is a great opportunity to connect with a diverse group of people - alumni, current students and young people that are excited about education.” She told me her favorite thing to do at the fair is to see the horses. When she was younger, she had a neighbor who had horses, and she used to love riding them. In timeless Minnesota State Colleges and Universities State Fair booth tradition, booth staff member Nancy Alfton made sure that Cheryl took one last spin with the Wheel of Luck before ending her career here at the fair.

Fairgoers are greeted by system Trustee Scott Thiss, left,
and President Cheryl Frank of Inver Hills Community College,
who recently announced her plans to retire next June.

Later on, I met Scott Thiss, one of the system’s appointed trustees. Scott serves as treasurer on the board. In addition, Scott owns his own business, producing plastic injection molds used for the making of medical products.

-- Michael

Kids and Seniors day, graduation caps and the Wheel of Luck!!

2008-08-25T15:42:00.000-05:00

Today is Kid's and Senior's Day at the State Fair, so we have had plenty of fun activities for fairgoers. North Hennepin Community College featured its "Picture yourself at NHCC" campaign. College representatives took photos of fairgoers in oversized graduation caps and spoke with many about what students can look forward to this year.

Kids visiting the booth enjoyed having their pictures taken by the
Communications Team from North Hennepin Community College.

Carmen Shoquist, communications director at North Hennepin Community College, said she was thrilled with the turnout at the booth. It was great to see so many people, young and old, having fun and learning about our system.

Communications Team members from North Hennepin Community College,
from left to right, are Michelle Goode, Janet McClelland, Carmen Shoquist
and Jenny Caudill.

Located in Brooklyn Park, North Hennepin Community College encourages students to visit the campus for a tour. Although going back to school can seem overwhelming, North Hennepin offers a two-year degree for adult learners who attend classes two nights a week. Tours are held every Tuesday at 6 p.m. For additional information, call the admissions office at (763) 424-0702.

President of Minnesota West Community and Technical College,
Richard Shrubb, hosts the Wheel of Luck.

We have had a busy day so far, and plenty of people have won some great prizes at the Wheel of Luck. Our hosts today included President Richard Shrubb of Minnesota West Community and Technical College, President Keith Stover of South Central College and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Trustee Dan McElroy.

System Trustee Dan McElroy and a young fairgoer ponder the Wheel of Luck.

-- Emily

The Wheel Keeps on Turning

2008-08-24T17:30:00.000-05:00

Sue Hammersmith, the new president of Metropolitan State University,
takes a turn running the Wheel of Luck for visitors to our exhibit.

The weather was much cooler today and the sky was clear. Our booth was full of people and all the staff were running here and there trying to keep up with the pace and demands of the crowd.

-- Michael

"GO WIN-ONA!!"

2008-08-23T17:30:00.000-05:00

Like many Minnesotans, I pronounce Winona "Why-no-na." However, Carl Stange, admissions director of Winona State University, quickly corrected me this morning with "Oh, no, it's Win-o-na!" He explained his insistence on Win vs Why because he would like others to share his enthusiasm for the "winning" university.

Booth visitors had an opportunity to meet Kevin Kopischke, president of
Alexandria Technical College, and John O'Brien, acting president
of Century College in White Bear Lake.

As a representative of the college, Carl expressed his excitement for the upcoming academic year. The National Child Protection Training Center will make its debut this October, making it possible for students in a variety of majors to learn about child advocacy. The facility will include a mock disruptive home, used to simulate dangerous environments professionals may encounter in the field. The center also will be used as a model, broadcasting these mock scenarios nationwide!

Kevin Kopischke, president of Alexandria Technical College,
demonstrates how to play the Wheel of Luck.

Because this year is Winona State University's 150th Anniversary, there were plenty of events at the fair today as well as many alumni visiting our booth. At 2 p.m., the university's float made its way down Cosgrove Street, followed by a student-engineered chariot carrying their mascot Wazoo!

The Winona State University float makes its way past the Education Building.

Winona State mascot Wazoo also made an appearance in the parade.

To read more about how Winona State University was founded, visit:
http://www.alumni.winona.edu

-- Emily

Fire Safety Day

2008-08-22T17:30:00.000-05:00

It's the second day of the fair, and already we have had many visitors to our booth. Today was the Governor's Fire Safety Day, and we featured firefighting in our booth.

Mike Anderson of Pine Technical College and Mike Roe of Ridgewater College, both fire program managers, visited this afternoon with fairgoers and also had fire suits and equipment for demo.

Mike Anderson and Mike Roe relax between fire safety demonstrations.

When I asked Anderson why he decided to go into firefighting as a career, he said he felt it was his duty as a citizen and has always had the desire to serve. In speaking with both Mikes, I also learned a few things about the preparation involved when responding to a fire.

The fire suit with equipment and boots weighs approximately 80 pounds, which after trying it on, I can say it would take some getting used to! I found out that the suit can withstand temperatures up to 900° Fahrenheit! The maximum time that a firefighter has to suit up is 60 seconds, leaving about another 30 to 60 seconds to get equipment on and get out the door!

Mike Anderson helps me get suited up.

Here I am all suited up!

So how does a person get started? In order to get your certification, try calling your local fire department. Most departments will take volunteers and pay for their training to be certified (120 hours). There are 14 colleges and universities within our system that offer firefighter training and education and can be found online at www.firecenter.mnscu.edu.

That's all for today. We hope to see you out at the booth!

-- Emily

The First Day!

2008-08-21T17:30:00.001-05:00

Arriving at 8 a.m. sharp, I could feel an electric current of anticipation in the Education Building. People in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth were adding finishing touches before the doors opened to the public.

The chancellor arrived early, too, eager to meet parents, students and alumni.

Chancellor James McCormick talks with a group of fairgoers about
the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.

Right on the dot at 9 a.m., the building opened and fairgoers poured in. I was amazed at the number of people who had been waiting patiently outside for the doors to open.

Marty Patterson, interim president of Hennepin Technical College, watches as a young
fairgoer tries his hand at the Wheel of Luck. The wheel spin, which occurs on the hour
beginning at 10 a.m., is a popular attraction.

Marty Patterson and Cecelia Cervantes, the newly named president-elect of Hennepin
Technical College, greeted visitors to the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth.

-- Michael

Tomorrow is the first day of the 2008 "Great Minnesota Get Together!"

2008-08-20T15:23:00.000-05:00

We hope to see you there!

-- Emily and Michael

Last day of the fair, tuition cost comparisons and an alumni success story

2007-09-03T21:38:00.000-05:00

Fairgoers checking out the college cost comparison chart.

I can’t believe the last day of the fair already! I’ve had a great time talking with people at the booth and, of course, spinning the Wheel of Luck!

Today is “bargain day” at the fair, which means most vendors are selling items for a discounted price. How does that relate to our booth?

The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system is proud to share tuition costs with prospective students, because the system’s colleges and universities provide a more affordable education than other public and private institutions in the state.

Tuition at the system’s two-year colleges is under $4,799 per year, and it is under $6,507 per year at our four-year universities. Talk about a real bargain!

Shonda and Bobby Moody stopped by the booth today. Both are proud graduates of Anoka Technical College.

Anoka Technical College alums Shonda and Bobby Moody stopped in to say hello today. They are both graduates of Anoka Tech’s Supervisory Management program. Shonda told me that when she landed a job at Eco-Lab, the company informed her that it was due to her training and technical education.

While in college, Shonda was president of Anoka Tech’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter, and she also attributes her career success to her experiences in the honor society.

That’s all for this year! I hope you have found some helpful information and, most importantly, don’t forget to visit us next year at the fair!

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities

A short Q and A, industrial technology at Rainy River Community College and more

2007-09-03T21:04:00.000-05:00

There is still a lot going on at our booth.

Here we are nearly at the end of the fair! Today we’ve had lots of great questions that are definitely worth repeating:

At what age should I begin to look at colleges?

Any age! In high school, the typical grade is 10^th or 11^th. By this time, you may be able to tell what area of study best interests them. This is also the age to start thinking about enrolling in the PSEO program (Post-Secondary Enrollment Options), which is available to juniors and seniors who meet the requirements and want to take college-level courses. (Find out more at www.mnscu.edu)

Are there any options available for senior citizens who just want to take some classses?

Yes! Some colleges and universities within our Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system will allow seniors to sit in on classes of their choice if space is available for a small fee. The seniors who attend these sessions will not receive college credit; however, it is a great opportunity to learn for the sake of learning.

Barb Fisher of Rainy River Community College in International Falls visited our booth today. She told me about the new industrial technology program that partners with the Boise Paper mill of International Falls. The industrial technology program allows graduates to be among the first in the hiring pool at Boise, and provides great opportunities for advancement.

One day left to get out to our booth!

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities

Minnesota Online, emergency preparedness kits and more

2007-09-02T08:44:00.000-05:00

Trustee David Paskach takes a turn hosting the wheel of luck.

Labor Day weekend has arrived and life in the booth is going well! It's warm out today and many fairgoers are walking away from our booth with complimentary UPS fans.

Kathy Grady was here from North Hennepin College answering questions about Minnesota Online. Minnesota Online is a Web site that provides students with online course, program and registration information for the 32 institutions in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.

Visit the Minnesota Online Web site.

Kathy explained that students have to apply to each individual institution to take classes online; however, once accepted, a person can take as many online courses as are offered by the institutions they've been accepted to. She told me that it is good to find out if online courses are best suited for you.

To find out if you are a good candidate for online courses and programs, you can fill out a questionnaire on the Minnesota Online Web site that will help you determine your learning style.

Find out if online learning is right for you.

Today our first responder’s area featured information on disaster survival. Tracy Worsley, the Emergency Preparedness Manager at the Fire/EMS/Safety Center, informed me how important it is to have a set plan in the event of an emergency. He showed me a bin of items that may be helpful in case of an emergency, and also informed me about some useful Web sites that people who want to create their own emergency kit at home can visit.

Emergency Preparedness Manager Tracy Worsley displays an emergency preparedness kit and other first responder training materials.

Helpful emergency preparedness Web sites:
American Red Cross
Federal Emergency Management Agency

That’s the report for today. Don’t forget there are only two days left at the fair!

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities

Walking while intoxicated? The vision-impairment simulation goggles make everyone wobble

2007-08-31T13:52:00.000-05:00

I've posted a video and a few more photos and from the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities State Fair booth. Enjoy!

Irondale High School (New Brighton, Minn.) student Katie Christianson takes a stroll wearing vision-impairing glasses that simulate what it feels like to be over the legal blood-alcohol limit of .08.

Thanks for stopping by! I hope to see you at the booth tomorrow.

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

UPS tuition assistance program, PSEO programs and more

2007-08-30T18:56:00.000-05:00

It’s hard to believe it’s the ninth day of the fair, with only a few more days to go here at the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth.

Century College president Larry Litecky taking his turn as master of ceremonies for the wheel of luck.

Because it is such a nice day, we have had many visitors and some great questions, as always. Here are a few of the frequently asked questions we have received today:

Is the University of Minnesota a part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system?

No, the University of Minnesota is a separate system.

What is the UPS tuition assistance program about?

At our booth we have UPS representatives who have told me about a tuition assistance program offered to students who work part-time. Part-time employees (20 hours per week) can earn up to $5,000 per year tuition assistance! UPS offers the tuition assistance program to all students in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities who work for UPS and offers great post-graduation career opportunities.

What are the requirements for the PSEO program?

The Post-Secondary Enrollment Options program, or PSEO for short, enables eligible high school juniors and seniors to receive both high school and college credit for college-level courses.

Pine Technical College president Robert Musgrove taking time out to answer questions.

Eligibility standards for participation through the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities are:

For juniors, class rank in the upper one-third of their class or a score at or above the 70th percentile on a nationally standardized test, such as the ACT or SAT;

For seniors, class rank in the upper one-half of their class or a score at or above the 50th percentile on a nationally standardized test, such as the ACT or SAT.

More information on PSEO programs

Here's a few more snapshots from this week:

That’s all for today. Feel free to stop by and ask some more great questions!

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

Law enforcement programs, TRIO student services and more

2007-08-29T17:47:00.000-05:00

Day 7 of the fair and the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth is still going strong!

Because today is the first day of the law enforcement emphasis at our first responder’s area, I had to get the scoop on what’s new from Ron Thomton of Minnesota West Community and Technical College. Thomton is a part of the Police Officer Continuing Education program, which trains police officers already in the field. The training includes defensive driving, use of force (self defense) and gun training.

I tried on some vision-impairing glasses (that's me above) that simulate what it feels like to be over the legal alcohol limit of .08. The glasses made me very dizzy, and I struggled to walk a straight line. Ron told me that he also had stronger glasses, set at the .20 alcohol level, which would have challenged my balance to the point of barely standing. The glasses serve as a reminder to the public, and to those in law enforcement training, of the severe dangers of drunk driving.

Saint Paul College, President Donovon Schwichtenberg hosting the Wheel of Luck

The TRIO program is another highlight of the booth this year. TRIO is a federally funded program that serves first-generation, low-income students with services. The TRIO program is broken into six different areas, covering diverse needs. Greg Reigstad of St. Cloud Technical College told me about a few of the programs that provide career counseling, tutoring, mentoring, advising and financial aid opportunities.

Greg Reigstad, St. Cloud Technical College Trio Representative

Two programs Greg mentioned were the Upward Bound-Math/Science program and Talent Search. Upward Bound-Math/Science focuses on preparing high school students for careers in math and science. The Talent Search program assists students ages 11 to 27 through career planning, post-secondary enrollment and financial aid. To find out more about the TRIO program, visit the Web site at www.mntrio.org.

Fairgoers visiting the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities booth.

That’s what’s happening for now. I’ll update you tomorrow! Don’t forget to stop by!

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

Photos from the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities State Fair booth

2007-08-28T17:12:00.000-05:00

I'm off today, but here are some photos from our State Fair booth.

Trustees David Olson, Board of Trustees chair, and Dan McElroy

Minnesota Education Commissioner Alice Seagren stopped by the booth.

Bernie Holden, EMS education director from Anoka Technical College, demonstrated the Fire Safety House.

Future college students exploring academic programs offered at Minnesota State Colleges and Universities campuses.

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

Kids and Seniors Day, first responders and one weird-looking dog (see below)

2007-08-27T17:32:00.000-05:00

It’s Monday, and another great start to the week at the fair! Because it is Kids and Seniors Day, we have had a lot of great visits with people about their college experience.

A Minnesota State University, Mankato alum stopped by to talk about his “good ol’days” at college, and was lucky enough to win a T-shirt at the Wheel of Luck! Although it wasn’t a Mankato shirt, he was really happy to share with us his appreciation for his school.

Today is also day two of the EMS (Emergency Medical Services) focus at the first responders area in our booth. Several EMS professionals shared a little bit about their profession. Don Schulte of Anoka Technical College explained he loves the change in pace of his work, humorously saying, “It’s the best office job you could have, the window view constantly changes!”

Emergency Medical Services professionals helping out at the first responder table.

Throughout the day they have also been demonstrating the CPR process on a Resuscitation Anne doll and a Resuscitation Dog (see weird-looking dog above). The Resuscitation Dog is a part of a new animal rescue curriculum included in the EMS programs offered by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical President Jim Johnson calling shots at the "Wheel of Luck."

Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical President Jim Johnson joined our booth today and highlighted some benefits to attending his institution. Jim has served as president since 1995 and has enjoyed watching a 45 percent increase in attendance over the last few years.

Southeast Technical provides job-specific training students need to stay competitive. The job-specific training is kept current, by a group of professionals who already have been in the field. This group of professionals meets once a year to ensure that programs offered are able to prepare students to be placed in the workforce.

Little ones enjoying the "Wheel of Luck."

Hope you enjoyed reading a little bit about our booth! I look forward to your visit and hope you can swing by to pick up your complimentary Minnesota State Colleges and Universities gold pencil!

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

Riverland's Health Science Simulation Laboratory, learning through doing at MSU, Mankato, and more

2007-08-25T17:49:00.000-05:00

It's day three at the fair, and we have already had a great turnout this morning. It’s beautiful out and it's the busiest day yet at the fair!

St. Cloud State University President Earl Potter and Riverland Community College President Terry Leas were both in the booth today. They visited with prospective students, and they also hosted the “Wheel of Luck” game.

That's me with Trustee James Van Houten spinning the "Wheel of Luck."

I was able to talk with President Leas about Riverland Community College and some exciting new additions to their Austin campus. He told me that the college has a new Health Science Simulation Laboratory on campus that is used for programs such as nursing, radiography, pharmacy technology, human services and law enforcement!

Riverland also has a well-known Automotive Service Technician program that has won two national awards from the Automotive Industry Planning Council (AIPC) in the last three years.

Terry also shared some really great advice for high school students looking to go to college. His advice: “Follow your passion. It’s not what you want to be; it’s what you want to do.”

He explained that it is really important to get to know your interests before heading to college, because if you know what you are really interested in, you are more likely to choose a rewarding career!

Gale Allen, an Engineering professor from Minnesota State University, Mankato, was also in our booth today. Professor Allen talked to me about what he enjoys most about teaching.

He explained that in his classroom students engage in interactive lessons that teach them a lot more than passive lessons, and that's what he loves the most about teaching. During each session, he breaks students into teams and assigns them problems to solve. This way, he explained, the learning becomes more of a simulation experience than a professor lecturing off of overheads. It was really great to talk with him and learn how excited he is about his profession.

That’s what’s happening for now. Enjoy the gorgeous day and don’t forget to visit the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities State Fair booth!

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

Interview with MCTC President Phil Davis, the wheel of luck and more

2007-08-24T17:09:00.001-05:00

It’s Day 2 at the fair, and it’s a pretty busy action-packed day!

The “Wheel of Luck” game has been a very popular event so far at the booth. Today we are lucky to have four college presidents visiting, and all will have a turn to host the spins! The game is an opportunity for fair-goers to win prizes that are donated by different schools within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. It’s always fun every hour to see the contestants and what prizes are won.

At the 11 a.m. spin, a little 5-year-old girl from Chaska attempted a spin and was successful. Even though she barely had the strength to spin the wheel, she won a sparkly T-shirt from Normandale Community College! Normandale Interim President Bernardine Bryant had a good time hosting, and a lot of great prizes were won.

We also were able to have Minneapolis Community and Technical College President Phil Davis at the booth; that's President Davis' photo above. I chatted with him a bit about what he believes is the most rewarding part of his position. He discussed how rewarding that it is to be able to help people fulfill their ambitions. His advice to prospective college students: “Study hard, take rigorous courses because it will serve you well, and it will stretch your mind.”

Trustee Carol Wenner and her granddaughter both helped out in the booth today.

Today is also the Governor’s Fire Safety Day at the fairgrounds, which has brought many fair-goers to our fire safety area. I had the chance to talk with Don Beckering, who is the State Director of First Response. His advice to future firefighters is to start in high school with the fire Explorer program.

This is a program that partners high schools with fire departments to educate students interested in the field. After completing the Explorer program, he also recommends attending one of the many programs offered by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.

That’s all for today, Happy Friday to all and hope you get a chance to visit out booth over the weekend!!

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

Opening day at the fair, fire safety and more

2007-08-23T16:40:00.000-05:00

Here we are on the first day of the 2007 Minnesota State Fair! The weather is a bit rainy but that doesn’t seem to be keeping people from the Education Building. So far we have had many interested visitors to our booth and it’s been fun to chat and see what they have to say!

I talked with a senior from Rosemount High School who has attended Normandale Community College as a PSEO student her junior year. She told me it’s been a great way to get ahead on college credits before graduating from high school. And, the best part, it’s free!! The PSEO program allows high schoolers (juniors and seniors) to attend classes for college credit…free!

Another big part of our booth this year is the first responder’s area. I had the opportunity to talk with Bruce Roed, who is the Northern District Coordinator at the Fire/EMS/Safety Center. He was working at the Fire Safety table, which is located inside our booth, and told me a little about the programs that are offered through Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

Trustee James Van Houten acts as master of ceremonies for the wheel of luck.

To become a volunteer firefighter, there are 12 programs throughout the state that offer classes part-time. He explained that many times people who have always wanted to be a firefighter, but never had the opportunity, enter these programs to pursue their passion.

The fire safety booth staff also brought along firefighter gear, which fair-goers had a blast trying on. So, of course I had to give it a try. I didn’t expect the gear to be so heavy! Bruce explained there are many parts to the uniform including the jacket, helmet, boots, SCBA (self contained breathing apparatus) and pants, which altogether weigh just about 80 pounds!

There is also a model fire-safety house at the booth where visitors can create scenarios for the proper way to escape in a fire.

That’s all for now. I’m looking forward to a great day again tomorrow! Hope you can join us.

More about Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.

We're back at the Minnesota State Fair!

Time to say “See You Later”

Transferring from a Two-Year College to a Four-Year State University

Choosing the Perfect College

Minnesota TRiO, a Tool for Your College Box

“Go Places” helps you find where you want to go

Tomorrow is the first day of the Great Minnesota Get-together

August 26-Labor Day, Sept. 6, 2010

Wrapping up for the year

Visitors keep coming and coming ....

Spinning to win popular with fairgoers

Tuition and the Economy

We're here to help

Crowds interested in learning about college opportunities

Meet college, university presidents in our exhibit

Visitors from around the globe

First day at the 2009 State Fair

" It's the last day at the fair!"

One popular item: Cost-comparison sheet

The final weekend begins

Ask Trustee McElroy!

A Little Rain and a Lot of Fun

A State Fair regular’s last spin

Kids and Seniors day, graduation caps and the Wheel of Luck!!

The Wheel Keeps on Turning

"GO *WIN*-ONA!!"

Fire Safety Day

The First Day!

Tomorrow is the first day of the 2008 "Great Minnesota Get Together!"

Last day of the fair, tuition cost comparisons and an alumni success story

A short Q and A, industrial technology at Rainy River Community College and more

Minnesota Online, emergency preparedness kits and more

Walking while intoxicated? The vision-impairment simulation goggles make everyone wobble

UPS tuition assistance program, PSEO programs and more

Law enforcement programs, TRIO student services and more

Photos from the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities State Fair booth

Kids and Seniors Day, first responders and one weird-looking dog (see below)

Riverland's Health Science Simulation Laboratory, learning through doing at MSU, Mankato, and more

Interview with MCTC President Phil Davis, the wheel of luck and more

Opening day at the fair, fire safety and more

"GO WIN-ONA!!"