As the school year comes to a close, there is much to be thankful for as we soak up this beautiful weather. The University of Minnesota is a great educational institution that I am proud to call my school. We have made great progress over the last year.

 

For example, who can complain about our own Golden Gophers making it to a New Year’s Day Bowl for the first time since the 1962 Rose Bowl? We owe that in large part to football coach Jerry Kill, whose winning record of 8-5 is certainly impressive. I remember being able to get free tickets to practically any game when I was a freshman. Now you have to pay!  This is a sure sign of improvement for Gopher football.

 

Another event to be proud of is the way the University community has come together this year to raise awareness about mental heatlh. Prominent groups such as

Active Minds continue to provide resources and opportunities in advancing awareness. We should congratulate these groups for pursuing a hard task.

 

The University is also becoming more selective; only admitting the brightest minds to learn. As an institution, we are advancing in educational prowess and becoming a force to be reckoned with in academia.

 

While these accomplishments are certainly impressive, the University still has a way to go. 

 

There is also a need to better allocate resources to the vast student body. As our school grows, the University will face challenges such as retaining good professors and making sure everyone is graduating when they want to.

 

But for now, just enjoy your summer, Gophers. See you in the fall.