Ep 14. University of Wisconsin-River Falls

In season 7 episode 14 of The College Tour, host Alex Chang visits the University of Wisconsin-River Falls to explore the campus and meet with students, faculty, and staff.

As the episode begins, Alex takes a tour of the campus with a student guide who shows him various buildings and landmarks, including the Falcon Center, which houses the campus fitness center, student organization offices, and dining options. They also visit the Rodli Commons, a newly renovated student union that serves as a hub for social events and activities.

Alex then sits down with Chancellor Connie Foster to discuss the university's history and mission, as well as its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Chancellor Foster highlights some of the unique academic programs offered at River Falls, such as its dairy science program, which has partnerships with local farms and agribusinesses. She also discusses the university's emphasis on hands-on learning and research opportunities for students, including undergraduate research grants and internships.

Next, Alex speaks with several students who share their experiences at River Falls and what drew them to the university. They discuss the tight-knit community on campus and the support they receive from faculty and staff, as well as the diverse range of extracurricular activities available. One student shares her story of how she discovered her passion for biology through an internship at a local wildlife center, which led to her involvement in research projects with the biology faculty.

Alex also learns about some of the campus traditions, such as the annual Falcon Frontier Days festival, which celebrates the start of the school year with carnival games, food trucks, and live music. He also attends a hockey game and experiences the lively school spirit of the students and fans cheering on the Falcons.

Throughout the episode, Alex showcases the natural beauty of the campus, including its proximity to the Kinnickinnic River and the expansive 400-acre Mann Valley Farm, where students can work in the fields and learn about sustainable agriculture practices.

Overall, season 7 episode 14 of The College Tour provides an intimate look into the culture and community of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, highlighting its strengths in academics, research, and student life.