* what roles visitors are cast in
    * what elements on the pages indicate this role
    * what they are given to play that role 

"We develop knowledge, talent, and skills for a lifetime of learning, service, and citizenship." I must begin by commenting on this mission statement. The role of the reciever is that of future community member. The slogan suggests that the reciever is concerned about how he/she will contribute to society as a whole, and value the education and development of skill that MSUM has to offer. The reciever values learning, contribution, and belonging to a collective as an asset. (Kind of sounds empty and cold when I put it that way.)

Future Students

The Role(s):

-The future Freshman. The language in the middle text concerning admissions and financial aid and housing reads like a parent to a child. Words like "must", "should," "you may," "it's important" all take the tone of a lecturing about responsibilty.

Apply Now

This page is headlined with "Congratulations . . ." then "on making a wise choice" Here again it seems like a parent speaking.

Before I read the text i saw the photo or "postcard." A big group of people smushed together. Looks like a party photo but they are all at school. Looks fun. There are three men in front of a whole bunch of women. The role the visitor is cast in here as in this photo seems to be the fun loving socialite. There are so many people in this bunch, and they all appear to be physically touching, suggesting close bonds, and the men don't seem too dissapointed to be with a bunch of ladies.

"You will engage in learning experiences that will enrich your view of the world and your place in it." This part in the text jumped out at me as sounding a lot like the mission statement. Again, the role of the future student here is one of a person who values contributing to society and having a meaningful role in that society. The future student is also someone who values culture and knowledge as a means of expanding his/her views and values further.

The quote on the side ushers in a whole new element. The role here now is an inexperienced and overwhelmed student first entering the "big" college where real professors teach. The role shifts again when the student talks about her unfortunarte loss and the fact that her professors were underestanding and took the time to herlp her catch up. She mentions they notice when a student is not performing well. The future student values professors who are down to earth and personable, instructors who take the time to notice changes in their students. They value that one on one attention.

More of this kind od reassurance and security is offered when you click on the picture. The future student wants to feel like things are taken care of. The future student does not like to be stressed out. The parent role is here as well, but not as loud. This is more like the travel agent who tells you all you need to know in order to have a smooth and pleasurable experience. "Did you know that by applying NOW to Minnesota State University Moorhead you can:

• Get your finances in order. Most scholarships and aid programs have early deadlines and are granted on a

• Get early class selection. Register as early as April for Fall classes.

• Help ensure that you get the living arrangement of your choice. We'll send you a housing application as soon as you are accepted.

• Be well informed. We'll let you know about upcoming events of interest to new students

• Rest easy. Enjoy your senior year knowing you're ready for the next step—MSU Moorhead!

Let us help you get where you want to go. Apply for admission on-line at go.mnstate.edu or call"