Want to explore the University of Rochester campus from the comfort of your home? Try a new animated game? Or chat with other incoming freshman?

Now the University has a Web site that allows just that. Newly admitted students to College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering will have an innovative way to learn about the campus and plan the years ahead. The recently launched Web site for the Class of 2011 offers incoming freshmen insight into University life through an interactive Web portal, which features virtual campus tours, interactive games, and message forums.

Dean of Undergraduate Admissions Jonathan Burdick says the site, which is in its pilot stage, will be fully up and running by February in time to serve as a research tool for all incoming undergraduate students.

"Our technology team did a great job. It's a different level of engagement," Burdick says. "We want to reach incoming students in ways that fit their lifestyle."

The site, developed by the College Office of Admissions, boasts a four-year planner that allows students to build an entire college curriculum. Students can assemble their tentative choices of majors, minors, and clusters the same way they can design their own new car options at state-of-the-art websites. Flash movies with sound, a game that launches animated students across campus on food trays, and resources to help them explore the city of Rochester are also included.

Early Decision students were informed of the site in December and already conversations about housing, financial aid, and important dates are filling up the message boards. The site will be managed by the respective class in September and will complement other University Web sites created to offer incoming students the latest new student orientation news and deadlines.

"We know that high-school students are doing their college research on line. The University of Rochester wants to have a strong Web presence that is entertaining and informative," Burdick says.

For more information visit the Web site at www.enrollment.rochester.edu/classof/2011/.