Caribou High School seniors had a unique opportunity to meet with an UMPI admissions counselor on November 8-9, 2007, to receive an early decision on their college application. Caribou High seniors turned out in record numbers this year, requiring Admissions to schedule a second day of meetings at the high school. The Admissions Office waives the application fee of Aroostook County students who pursue early decision. Applicants must complete an application, submit a transcript and letters of recommendation. Students usually receive a decision before the end of the interview day. UMPI counselor, Mike Michaud, processed a record twenty-two applications during the two days. "We find that it is a great way to build a personal relationship between counselor and student. Students appreciate that a counselor knows them by name and can better assist them throughout the transition stage from high school to college," he stated. According to Michaud, several high SAT scores resulted in positive acceptance decisions for most applicants. Approximately 75% of the early decision candidates will choose to attend UMPI. Last year, twenty five CHS seniors enrolled at UMPI.

This year CHS seniors who attend UMPI for a college tour will have an opportunity to attend classes with members of the CHS cohort attending the university. Efforts are under way to pair aspiring seniors with CHS alumni who share interest in the same discipline. Also, several of these college students will also serve as hosts when Caribou High School juniors and UMPI - bound seniors participate in University Day on April 16, 2008.