The Sims 3: University Life expansion pack introduces a special object known as the University Welcome Kit. This item serves as a central hub for Sims interested in pursuing higher education within the game, offering access to several distinct functions, including the acquisition of free items. The kit is designed to assist Sims in their academic journey by providing resources, information, and a touch of school spirit. Understanding how to utilize this kit is essential for players looking to maximize their Sim's university experience, whether by earning early credits through aptitude tests or by gathering supplies at no cost.
Acquisition and Purpose
The University Welcome Kit is a portable object that can be obtained in two primary ways. When a new save file is started with The Sims 3: University Life installed, a university mascot will visit the active household within three in-game hours. During this visit, the mascot drops off a welcome kit for the player to use. Alternatively, the kit can be purchased directly in Buy Mode. According to the game's internal data, it is categorized as a "Special" object, costs §20, and occupies a 1x1 tile space. It is classified under "Entertainment" when sorting by function in Buy Mode.
The kit functions as an inventory object, meaning it can be carried by a Sim or placed in the household inventory. Its primary capabilities include taking the University Aptitude Test, summoning the university mascot, and accessing University Freebies. The game explicitly recommends that Sims take the aptitude test before formally enrolling in university to gain a head start on credits and financial aid.
Accessing University Freebies
One of the specific features available through the University Welcome Kit is the ability to obtain "University Freebies." While the provided documentation does not detail the exact nature of these free items, the context suggests they are introductory supplies or perks intended to help a Sim settle into university life. This feature is accessible through the interaction menu when the kit is selected.
In addition to the freebies available directly through the kit, other free resources exist within the university environment. Upon arrival at the university, Sims are encouraged to visit the Student Union. Here, a student services booth provides freebies and opportunities to meet fellow students and professors. The availability of this booth is tied to specific in-game timing; it appears automatically during the "Meet & Greet" event on the first day of the semester but does not remain available for the rest of the term.
The University Aptitude Test
A core function of the University Welcome Kit is facilitating the University Aptitude Test. Taking this test is a strategic step for any Sim planning to enroll. The test results directly influence the financial aid package and the number of credits a Sim starts with for their chosen degree.
Eligibility and Rules
- Who can take it: Any Sim can take the test, but it is only available in the main home neighborhoods, not within the university world itself.
- Retakes: Sims can retake the test as many times as desired to improve their scores, but this must be done in the home world before enrollment.
- Scoring: The score is calculated based on the Sim's existing skill levels, traits, work experience, and school grades.
Rewards and Outcomes
The test score determines the level of scholarship funding a Sim receives: - Full Scholarship: Awarded for scores of 1,800 points or higher. - Partial Scholarship: Awarded for scores above 1,200 points. - No Scholarship: Awarded for scores of 1,200 points or lower.
In addition to scholarships, a high score can grant up to 18 of the 48 credits required to complete a degree. The monetary reward associated with a scholarship can be up to approximately §1,875. It is important to note that this money is technically a loan; if the Sim leaves university early, the funds are returned to the game.
Summoning the Mascot
The welcome kit also allows a Sim to summon the university mascot. This interaction is limited to the main home neighborhoods. Building a high relationship level with the mascot unlocks additional interactions, specifically the ability to request "Mascot Training." This training allows the Sim to unlock costume suits (Llama or Gnome) and perform various animations such as backflips, the "Running Man," and the "Mascot Style" dance.
Enrollment and University Structure
While the Welcome Kit provides preparatory resources, actual enrollment occurs via phone or computer, or by applying at the community school. Only Young Adult and older Sims are eligible to enroll. Sims may only study one major at a time from the six available majors. They cannot change majors mid-term but can enroll again after completing a term to pursue a different degree.
The university world consists of a central campus containing main university buildings, specialized buildings for science, art, and business, and a student union. Surrounding the campus are shops, hangout spots, and residential lots. Students have the option to rent a private house or join a dormitory. Dormitories are rent-free and come in three varieties: sororities, fraternities, and mixed-gender housing.
Conclusion
The University Welcome Kit is a vital tool in The Sims 3: University Life, serving as the gateway to university-specific resources. It provides direct access to freebies, a mechanism for earning significant financial aid and academic credits through the aptitude test, and the ability to summon the mascot. For Sims planning to attend university, utilizing the kit to take the aptitude test is highly recommended to secure a head start on both credits and funds. Additionally, visiting the Student Union on the first day of the semester is necessary to collect further free items from the student services booth.