Dear class of 2021, here’s why you should become a Duck
It’s an experience like no other
Graduating high school is both a challenging and exciting time, and deciding where you want to spend the next four years can add a lot of stress. Whether you come in having your major planned out or if you want to explore your options, there’s a way to make that happen.
With over 4,000 colleges in the U.S. alone there are many places for people to succeed. However, the University of Oregon isn’t just one of those schools, but a special gem located in the Pacific Northwest.
Still undecided if you want to become a Duck? Here’s why you should join us:
The campus
A piece of beauty
Rain or shine, the grass will always be a vibrant green and the trees will always smell heavenly. It’s a nature and runner-lover’s paradise, with a splash of college life. It’s the perfect place to take a walk when you need to clear your head, or a peaceful setting to study. The people are friendly, too.
The city of Eugene
The UO campus is located in about two hours south of Portland, but still has access to some great restaurants and shopping. From the Saturday Market to community events downtown, there’s plenty to do when you want to take a break from studying. Not to mention it’s a perfect spot for fitness gurus, you can’t round a corner without finding a yoga studio or an organic restaurant.
Major choices
Oh what to choose? UO is known for its business, journalism, and science programs but you can’t go wrong with any of the majors. The professors are excellent and even though some classes may be filled at registration, you can keep checking online before the term starts.
Clubs, clubs, clubs!
You can hear from people such as former Olympians Ashton and Brianne Eaton
Let’s get to the bottom line: cool shit happens here. Whether you’re part of the Warsaw Sports Business Club and taking site visits to places such as Nike Adidas or a budding scientist, there’s about a 95% chance there’s a group that can make that happen or you can create one. Just consult with the advising office in your major and they should have a list of clubs that can help get you on track toward your dream career.
College athletics
Sco Ducks
Look around and you’ll see that we have O’s everywhere- football, basketball and track are well known outside of Eugene, too. The fans are passionate and are always walking around in their O gear. The student section is always hopping and look to the people next to you and they’ll teach you the cheers that are ingrained in the Duck tradition.
The Rec
It’s tricked out and ready to use
A bonus of being located in Oregon is the proximity to Nike headquarters. Since the Knight family has given to the school, Nike also helped remodel the gym a couple years go making it shiny and new. From the moment you walk in you can make a hand print so you can scan your hand for entrance instead of bringing your ID card. Cool, right?
It’s open late, too so you can finish homework or de-stress after late night studying. The elite basketball courts next to the huge weight rooms make it hard to resist exercising in this high-tech space.
School spirit
Spring term is the best time of the year
Besides academics, UO has the best school spirit in the PAC 12. People are proud of their Ducks and you can see it everywhere, especially during football and basketball seasons. If you want an electric atmosphere, UO is the place to experience it.
Fitness community
When you enter the Duck community you’ll enter a group of people who are passionate about being outside. Even if it’s just a light mist outside, you can still enjoy the many trails that are available around campus.
The Duck
Because who doesn’t love a lovable duck that hugs everyone? To add to the pushups he does at every football game, he also makes for a terrific dance partner and if you’re lucky maybe you’ll score a selfie and find it on his Twitter feed. Bad ass and lovable: what else could you ask for?
Lifelong friendships
Lifelong friendships that go beyond the classroom are the ones that count
Aside from the top notch opportunities, you’ll meet some of the nicest people and create friendships that will last beyond your college years. With all of the groups on campus you’ll find someone with your same interests and to hang out with. Many of these people will stay with you for the rest of your life even after college.
Oregon has it all, the academics, athletics and a personable atmosphere. We love welcoming new Ducks, and we can’t wait for you to join us next year.
From all of us in Eugene, welcome!