Disclosure: I attended the Monster’s University Freshman Orientation (press event) this month. My travel and accommodations were included, as well as plenty of behind-the-scenes sneak peek information about the upcoming movie. All opinions are my own.
As soon as I stepped off the bus for freshman orientation at Monster’s University, I felt like I’d been transported to a well-established college campus.
It has been a while since I was a college freshman (in fact, my daughter will be heading to college in a little over a year) but as I stepped under the MU banner and walked past the rousing drum band, those old college emotions came rushing back.
Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, California, was transformed. From Monster’s University banners to monster-themed flyers pinned to all the bulletin boards, the whole place was decked out. It really did feel like we were walking around Monster’s University with Mike and Sulley (I caught a few snap shots with Mike and Sulley, who did in fact show up throughout our orientation).
Not only were we entertained by MU cheerleaders and drummers during our outdoor tailgating BBQ lunch, but we were able to enjoy some my favorite Pixar icons, like the Luxo the lamp and the yellow Luxo ball.
Inside the Steve Jobs Building, we spent a good part of the day in classes, but we took time out of our busy schedule to take our official Student ID pictures, a special picture with Mike and Sulley, and a quick visit with one of the Professors of Scaring who rated us on our scariest screams.
My kids were not surprised when I reported back on my score – my scream was received a Super-Scary-Dean-Hardscrabble on the official Scare-O-Meter (“Scariness is the true measure of a Monster”). In the next few weeks, I get to share a video of the scary and not-so-scary screams that happened during orientation (I must say, though – only at MU can you be sitting in class and hear constant screams in the courtyard. At least I hope that’s the case…).
After classes, we were led on a tour of the Pixar campus, and although much of what we saw behind the scenes was photo-restricted, I can tell you that I was in awe. I’ve loved Pixar from the moment I saw Toy Story for the first time back in 1995 (and many, many times since) but when I saw where and how they worked–where so much of the Pixar magic is born–I was blown away.
Did you know that Pixar has produced thirteen feature length animated films? Pixar has won 27 Academy Awards, seven Golden Globe Awards, and eleven Grammy Awards, as well as many other awards. Up and Toy Story 3 are two of only three animated films EVER to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture.
Pixar does some amazing work…but as we toured the campus, I was reminded that Pixar is only as strong and talented as the many talented, incredible people working there.
I’m just grateful that I could spend a few days surrounded by such greatness.
And now I’m excited to share this brand new never-before seen trailer for Monsters University:
How excited are you for this movie to come out?!
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Yes! It’s hard to believe! I’m excited for her….and the extra bedroom space it will open up in our tiny house. LOL!
You’re daughter’s heading to college soon? No way! Well, at least you’ll have some fun experiences to share w/ her. Although, I doubt her campus will look like the one we just attended :P
Love your post, Lolli!
This was such an amazing experience! Great post!