U of M to host Multicultural Kickoff Days

Orientation with an ethnic touch

When: Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 26 and 27
Where: Willey Hall, 225 19th Ave. S., Minneapolis

Contacts: Jillian Rowan, Multicultural Center for Academic Excellence, (612) 626-0733
Bob San, University News Service, (612) 624-4082

About 500 incoming University of Minnesota first-year students of color will experience an orientation with ethnic touches when they attend Multicultural Kickoff Days Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 26 and 27 in Willey Hall, 225 19th Ave. S., Minneapolis.

In addition to the usual orientation programs such as tours and presentations about U of M programs, the students will also be welcomed by a hip-hop step show, Aztec dancers and a Chinese lion dance.

The annual event is organized by the university's Multicultural Center for Academic Excellence (MCAE) to welcome the new students and to celebrate the diversity of the university. Various sessions will give students the inside scoop on scholarships, financial aid, work study, research and volunteer programs.

The students will also be introduced to the various ethnic units on campus, such as the student cultural centers and the academic support services offered through the Office of Equity and Diversity. Representatives from the university's financial aid office and study abroad programs will make presentations.

“Multicultural Kickoff Days provide our new students an opportunity to meet other students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds,” said Jillian Rowan of MCAE. “It will also allow them more detailed information, experience and connections to the multicultural services and offices at the U. It will help first-year students make a successful transition to college by building community and identifying academic and cultural support on campus.”