Students enjoy a movie on the Quad during the first week of classes.

College is a new experience for everyone, but with the help of our alumni we can make it a little easier for our newest Retrievers! Take a look at these suggestions to make the transition to life at UMBC even easier.

Your college experience is what you make it! Stretch your boundaries, get out there, get involved! ~Mitali Parmar ’13, health administration & policy and sociology
Go to things you don’t think you’ll like. The best friends you’ll make are the ones who aren’t exactly like you! ~Arooj Rana ’06, psychology
I always wish I studied abroad in undergrad. Make sure you do something to extend your academics: good internship, research, etc. ~Christine Osazuwa ’11, interdisciplinary studies
Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions – if you have a question, I am sure that others have the same question and are too afraid to ask it. ~Christina Huynh ’11, information systems management
UMBC has a lot of awesome professors who really care about undergraduates, which is something that can’t be found everywhere. Take advantage of this by getting to know some of your favorite professors. Many professors at UMBC are delighted to have students stop by office hours, if only to chat about what was discussed in class that week. Professors can serve as professional mentors even after you graduate. ~Jennifer Mercer ’12, interdisciplinary studies
Balance and moderation is my tip. Freshman year is a great year to begin to make friendships that should carry throughout your college experience. Don’t be afraid to join and try new groups, meet people you may not have ever interacted with in high school. However, don’t over extend yourself. It’s so important to maintain a good balance with your school work and classes. A few mistakes early on can and will affect your other years. ~Nate Dissmeyer ’07, information systems management
It’s totally okay to change your major, change your career plan, and change your roommates. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths; you’re going to be okay. ~Jess El-Zeftawy ’08, political science, ’12 M.P.P., public policy
Start looking for internships NOW! and eat on the first floor of the Administration building. You’ll avoid the Commons madness. ~Amanda Winters ’11, media and communication studies
There will be people here that like you for you so don’t be afraid to express yourself. ~Patricia Reynolds ’09, English