University of Maryland-College Park
College Park, MD, USA

Reviews

University of Maryland-College Park

Anonymous from PA

a current student here
45 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
At the University of Maryland, you learn so much more than just facts and truths from textbooks and lectures. While the classes are extremely informational, and the professors and T.A.s are all very knowledgeable on their subjects, the real learning goes on outside of the classroom. Their are countless non-credit lectures, shows to attend, research teams to be a part of, professors to work with one-on-one, and relationships to be made which will help you mature into a worldly human being. I have grown up so much in the one year I have attended this school, and the lessons I have learned (in and out of the classroom) will stick with me for life.
Am enjoying being here
I personally did not know where I wanted to attend college until I started visiting schools my senior year. I decided to visit the University of Maryland College Park Campus on a whim since I had heard they were a public ivy, and had very selective academic programs. The second I stepped onto campus, I knew it would be my home for the next four years, and I couldn't have found a better fit. In the first year alone I became a part of a championship winning intramural team, found some of the best friends anyone could ever ask for, joined about 10 student groups, a club sport, attended all of the soccer, basketball, and football home games, and can honestly say I had the best year of my life. At the University of Maryland, even when you're not doing anything-you are with people, and you are doing something-It's an amazing experience.
Bang for the buck
I'm an out of state student, so I pay a higher tuition than most of the population of the school (Maryland students) but it is worth every penny. There is a joke on campus that one out of state student per year pays for the flowers that make up the big M at the entrance of campus-but as a student you are paying for so much more. You find a new home, and a new family, and a new sense of self, and the knowledge you gain is worth every cent.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you are thorough with your resumes when you are applying, and when you finally get on campus make sure you investigate all of the different student groups so that you can find your own niche here at the University! Oh and don't be afraid of the random roommate selection, or not making friends because the place is so huge--that's the great part about it! There are so many different types of people at the University you really will find a new family, and it's amazing!
Great for these types of students
Outgoing, fun-loving students who enjoy being challenged in a classroom setting, as well as motivated from all sides of the spectrum. It's also great for kids who have a wide variety of interests, like myself, since there are clubs ranging from sports, to singing, to game playing, to community service, to broadcasting and so much more! It is so easy to be involved! It's also impossible not to catch Terrapinitis, so if you've got great school spirit and loyalty, this is the place for you. We LOVE our Terps!!

Stephanie from Frederick, MD

a current student here
21 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I recently completed my first year at Maryland this past Spring and after looking back on my learning experiences at the university, I can definitely say that I have learned and will continue to learn a lot while attending this school. Not only will one who attends this school learn a lot throughout academics, but they will also learn a lot about themselves. As an incoming freshmen I was excited, scared, and nervous. There was the stress of making new friends, getting good grades, and making the most of the college experience. Maryland is a big school with many people looking to make friends. When you meet new people (and trust me, you will) you will learn about others as well as yourself as you continue to grow throughout college. College is much different than high school and at Maryland you will find the classes to be challenging but with the resources and availability of tutors, teaching assistant, as well as professors, you can get as much help as you need to assure yourself that you understand the material that is taught. As far as making the most of the college experience goes, college is the best opportunity to try new things and Maryland has endless opportunities for students including clubs, sporting events, intramural sports, etc.
Am enjoying being here
I absolutely love attending the University of Maryland. The large campus gives students an opportunity to meet new people everyday. Whether it is on a walk to class, participating in a club sport, or just walking down to the student lounge in the residence halls, you are bound to meet someone new everyday. The students at Maryland are very friendly and just as eager to meet new people as you are, so don't be afraid to introduce yourself and get to know others.
Bang for the buck
At Maryland you will be challenged academically and socially. The knowledge spread throughout the resources including professors, teaching assistants, libraries, and other students at the University of Maryland is enough to assure yourself that you are getting the most for your money. In addition, as a young adult, you will be put in situations where you have to make decisions for yourself as well as represent who you are as a person. The University of Maryland is a place where students are pushed to do their best in their studies as well as strengthen their social skills so that its students can become succesful adults.
Tips for prospective students
Throughout your college search make sure to visit all schools. The University is a great school with a LARGE campus so make sure that you walk around and see if you could get used to walking 10 minutes (or longer) to class. You may also want to check out a sporting event. Most students attend the football and basketball games and going to either one of these games will let you know what it feels like to be a Terp (for a few hours anyway) :-).
Great for these types of students
The University of Maryland is a great school for students who are willing to be challenged and enjoy being around others.

Andrew from MD

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
You will learn many things, in many ways no matter what type of person you are. This university excels especially in science and engineering, and being near Washington DC, large respected companies are very much present here in the form of internships and research opportunities. As with any university, there are easy classes and there are many hard classes, but if you take your work seriously, you will learn a lot about your own potential and gain an appreciation of the work you are doing. This university on an academic level competes with private Ivy League schools so you can be sure any employer in the future will respect where you have graduated from. Also, being in contact daily with people from all over the world, you will learn a lot about different cultures, lifestyles, and interests no matter where you go. Here you can learn just about anything you set your mind to through the hundreds of courses available or by simply joining clubs, activities and meeting people. This university boasts several, vast libraries with books on every topic imaginable, in many different languages. Not only will you gain knowledge beneficial to your career here, but you will gain a better understanding of yourself and the world around you if you are so inclined.
Am enjoying being here
You will meet people from all over the world here from many different backgrounds so you are bound to meet some good friends. There are numerous activities and clubs to be involved in including sports, dance, gaming, and culture clubs to name a few. There are many very interesting people here, including students and professors, as well as activities to appeal to any niche. Campus events are frequent and diverse from the annual Maryland Day where virtually every club comes out to show what they have to offer to more personal events such as a quiet poetry reading or the breakdance battle in a secluded ballroom upstairs in the Stamp Student Union. With a campus of over 30,000 students, you can expect anything on this campus.
Bang for the buck
First, the food for the most part is very expensive for what it is, and you will grow tired of it quickly. That aside, being at a school with the population of a large town, you will get excellent research opportunities and will work among some of the brightest minds from around the world. For many classes, your professors will be accomplished authors and researchers, but there are also informal study groups and discussions that supplement the lectures. However, also as a result of being a large school, receiving personal attention for your non-academic needs will have to make it through the bureaucracy of the school. The campus is large and many buildings have been renovated, but it is self contained. There is a 'main street' with an active nightlife, but the surrounding neighborhood is not so good, and crime and theft is unfortunately a problem in those areas. On a purely academic level however, this college is one of the top-ranked schools in America especially in science and engineering, so you will get that for the price of a public university.
Tips for prospective students
One of the most important steps is to bring an open mind. You will be exposed to many different cultures and people here, but if you are willing to understand them, everything that this large university and its students/faculty have to offer will be much more clear, let alone more enjoyable. Also keep in mind that you are studying at one of the top universities in America and that you are competing with some very bright people. Do not take this as a bad thing, but see it as motivation to be better. At this university, it is simply a waste of time to slack off because you should take advantage of studying at a school that has so many resources and great minds. Also, be sure to keep up with deadlines because for the most part you will only get notices in the form of email notifications, and you do not want to deal with any more paper work and phone calls through the administration then you have to. Also, bring a bike. This campus is huge.
Great for these types of students
One of the great things about large universities is that anyone can feel at home here if they know where to look. No matter what you study or what you are interested in, there are probably dozens if not hundreds of others that are into it as much as you are. If you are quiet and mostly just into your studies, you will find more than enough resources in the campus libraries and through your professors. If you are socially activist or want to meet many people, as previously stated before, many clubs are available to satisfy all interests if you cannot find anyone similar in your dorm. If you are looking for a nice college town however, you may not find it here because there is really only one street off campus within walking distance with anything of interest to college students since most of the college is self-contained. Nevertheless, a trip to DC takes only a short trip by metro and so much is offered on campus anyway.

Anna from Glen Cove, NY

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
At the University of Maryland – College Park, you will receive a first class education. At the university you have renowned professors, who put tremendous effort into teaching their students. For a large university, you feel like you are learning in a smaller institution. As a freshman, all my classes were taught by professors. My professors were always available for me to ask questions and discuss the information that I had learned in class. My TA’s were also great in helping me understand the course material and reinforce the lessons I had learned. I had a whole new perspective of my major and what my career choices were. There are also many different learning facilities that can help assist students in their classes. There is the Writing Center where students can have graduate students read over their essay and edit it for them. There are also various math tutoring halls where students can go and study for tests and enhance their math skills. Maryland also has a CORE curriculum so that students can take different classes outside of their major and get a well-rounded education. Maryland is definitely the school for students who are serious about getting a worthwhile education.
Am enjoying being here
I love Maryland! I truly believe that it is a fantastic school. The fact that Maryland is such a big school might turn off some people. But I believe since Maryland is a bigger school it has more opportunities for people to just be themselves and find their own niche. For example, if you are a sports fanatic there are over 37 sports to watch and even participate in, in intramurals. There are also two dining halls on the north and south side of campus, which are styled as food courts with great varieties of food. We even have a vegetarian station called “Sprouts”. We have restaurants and campus shop where all you need is your id card to pay. There hundreds of different clubs to join and be a part of ranging from community service clubs to fan clubs. If you are someone who is very social there are many different sororities and fraternities to join ranging from Christian to multicultural. There is something for everyone at Maryland. Maryland’s campus is also gorgeous it has large grass fields and tall trees to sit and read under. There is also always something going on at Maryland whether it’s a party at Stamp Student Union or a football or basketball game where you can find everyone on campus cheering on the Terps. I have never seen more school spirit on a college campus in my life. You will definitely never be bored here. On top of that everything is wireless so you can access the internet at anytime, anywhere. If you don’t have a computer no problem there are 24 hour WAM computer labs all over campus. Last but not least, if you feel that you need to stay in shape you can go to not just one but two gyms. At Maryland, I have made life-long friends just by being involved. I always meet someone new every day. I feel that I’ve found my home away from home.
Bang for the buck
As an out of state student, my tuition is a little bit more expensive than an in-state student, but it’s an education well spent. There are tons of scholarships to apply for to help finance your education at Maryland; many great scholarships are listed right here on this site. On top of that Maryland offers a substantial amount of financial aid to need-based applicants. And if that still isn’t enough you can also take out a payment plan with Financial called the Terp Payment Plan in which you can make low monthly payments to the university. Maryland’s a great school so don’t let the price intimidate you there are many different options for financing you education here.
Tips for prospective students
If you are a High School Senior looking for a great school Maryland is a great school to apply to. You can stay overnight to get a good feel for the campus. And if you are already interested in applying make sure that you are very thorough with you application. Make sure that you have your resume and recommendation letters ready so that you can complete the application in a timely process. Also keep on top of your deadlines and maybe send in your application a couple weeks before the deadline so you will get your decision sooner. If you are an incoming Terp, take full advantage of what the university has to offer. The university has many options for students to get well acquainted with their new home. There is the Edge Program where in-coming minority students can take a look at the campus and meet other in-coming students. There is also the Bridge Program where incoming students can take summer classes to get a feel of what taking classes in the fall will be like. Last but not least, make sure that you stay on top of your work and don’t get too sidetracked. Make a schedule and stick to it. Once you can learn to balance your work and play you will start getting the A’s.
Great for these types of students
This university is great for all types of students. If you’re an independent worker you can find large spaces to study and not be bothered in the library. If you’re someone who likes to work with other you can find a study room so that you can talk and discuss everything you want. There is so much that this university offers that anyone can find their niche. The great thing about Maryland is that you can be who you are and still be accepted. And it doesn’t matter what major you are because we have great professors in every major whether it’s Engineering or Government and Politics. Maryland is a great place for open-minded students looking for an education that can help prepare them for the real world.

Eli S. from Fort Washington, MD

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am definitely learning a lot at the University of Maryland! There are 250+ majors; my major is Architecture (and I'm absolutely in love with it)! I just finished my first semester and I have to say is was an amazing experience. Academically, the school provided me with an array of opportunities: seven libraries that I could use any time I wanted and WiFi all throughout the campus. All of my professors were incredibly efficient at teaching; just being in the lecture-style atmosphere forced me to work harder. The work was definitely more challenging than high school, but with all of the tutoring opportunities availabe, it was pretty much imposible to fall behind.
Am enjoying being here
I absolutely loved the overall social experience. UMCP is located right on a DC Metro line and transit is available throughout the campus itself. The exposure that all of the students have is absolutely incredible! My friends and I were out in DC at least every other weekend, wether it was for an assignment or just for fun.
Bang for the buck
I am an in-state student, and even though I did not recieve any financial aid, I was given the opportunity to get a job. In fact, getting jobs on-campus is encouraged. I currently work in the UMCP Admissions Office nd couldn't be happier with the job. I get to speak with prospective students and their parents, and tell them all they need to know about my school. I can't say that I am rich from the job, but having a job allows me to help out with what little bills that I do have, as well as have so walk around money when I am out with my friends.
Tips for prospective students
Some tips for prospective students would be to visit your school(s) as much as possible and make a name for yourself, especially if it is a bigger school. If you can't afford to visit the school, then make sure that you communicate with students from the school. Since I was accepted into the school of Architecture at the University of Maryland - College Park, I contacted the School as soon as I found out. After trading emails with a proffessor for about two weeks, I then decided to ask if I could speak with a student. That very same student wound up being my TA during my Architecture intro course.
Great for these types of students
UMCP, because it is a big school, would be better for students who enjoy being involved in something. From what I have seen, not being involved in some part of the school -- a club, SGA, etc. -- can cause some students to feel overwhelmed with the large environment. But, as a freshamn in college, I have some advice for any and every incoming college student: you are taking a step into adulthood, and making decisions and exposing yourself to situations/people that sometimes take you out of your comfort zone (as long as they are safe) are what help you to mature and grow into a well-rounded adult.

Nicole from Silver Spring, MD

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I've finished my first year here and I definitely enjoyed most of my classes. The professors are really there for you if you just walk into their office when you need them. There's a lot of information you have to take in so you really have to study it. For my first year, however, I wasn't too stressed out because the professors understand that we're all taking 15+ credits. I actually feel like I retain more information because of all the studying that happens.
Am enjoying being here
I live in a dorm so I definitely get immersed in the community. Being right there to Route 1 makes for plenty of variety when you want to eat out or go out. There are even buses that take you to the metro so you have easy access to Washington DC. The people there are nice and if you're going to dorm, definitely become friends with the people on your floor!
Bang for the buck
Since I live in-state, my tuition plus room and board is pretty reasonable. For the location, the professors, the experience, and the possibilities, I do think it's worth it.
Tips for prospective students
Definitely think about dorming, even if it's only for the first year. You'll have a blast and you'll make best friends with the people around you. You need to make sure you can balance schoolwork and having fun. Making a schedule will definitely benefit you.
Great for these types of students
Likes big campus. Outgoing. Personable. Likes to party.

David from Bowie, MD

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The academics at the University of Maryland are incredible. They have Limited Enrollment Program for Engineering and Business (top notch fields at UMD) and are ranked high in the many different fields that they offer.
Am enjoying being here
The College Experience is amazing at the University.
Bang for the buck
Excellent school. Its pricey but what school isn't? At only approximately $23000 (in-state for me) I couldn't ask for more. State of the art work-out facilities, outstanding academics, plenty of extracurricular activities, and more. This University is amazing. I could not have asked for anything more.
Tips for prospective students
If you want to attend this University complete your entire application as soon as possible. It will be to your advantage and increases your chances of attending the University.
Great for these types of students
STEM (Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Majors
Business Majors
Education Majors
Pre-Med Majors

Jean-Thomas from Hyattsville, MD

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of Maryland offers students a suburban lifestyle within easy reach of big-city experiences. There are multiple opportunities to find your niche on campus, and it is one of the best schools in the DMV.
Tips for prospective students
Apply Early, the admissions is getting more competitive every year so if this is one of your top choices, apply during the Priority Deadline.
Academic Rigor
Classes can be challenging, but there are many resources on campus that can help you get help when u need it. In addition, Professors are always open to help, as long as you reach out.
Dorm Life
No A/C in some dorms but for the most part it is very great experience
Food and Dining
Like any college campus, you can get tired of the same food, but there are many other options near campus so that you can mix it up.
What to do for fun
There are always events on campus that you can enjoy for free or for a small fee. There are intramurals, and a ton of other clubs and activities.
Great for these types of students
It is such a big school, that no matter what type of student you are, you will be able to find your niche.
Clubs and Activities
Various clubs and activities, you can choose from
Campus Safety
Campus Police and alerts are always reaching you in case of any emergency on campus

Oleksiy from Gaithersburg, MD

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Located only a few miles outside of Washington D.C., and home to one of the best academic programs in the world, UMD has something for everyone. Many people don't think of Maryland as a prestigious university, however nothing could be further from the truth. You will love every minute you spend on campus and will make your friends feel bad for looking down on such a great school.
Academic Rigor
UMD courses are challenging and rigorous in every department. If you ever need help, our professors and teacher's assistants are always willing to help during their office hours.
Dorm Life
You will find great people in your dorm. UMD students are very friendly and easy-going people, but they also take their schoolwork very seriously. You will accomplish great things at this university, and your dorm-mates will be like your family.
Food and Dining
The North and South Campus Diners offer a great variety of choices. 251 North offers all-you-can-eat gourmet dining, and is very fun to visit with friends. There are also numerous shop on campus and Route One has many different restaurants that are located right off campus and will suit everyone's fancy
Bang for the buck
In-state tuition is a great way to save money on college. You will be educated at one of the best universities in the world, and won't have to break the bank in order to get a world-class education.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Everyone must bathe in the fountain on McKeldin Mall at least once during their time in College Park.
Clubs and Activities
The amount of clubs and organizations on campus is ridiculous. You will feel a bit overwhelmed at the First Look Fair. There is something to fit everyone's interests.
Campus Safety
People think that College Park is an unsafe city. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Campus police do a great job, and I've never heard of any major incidents occurring on campus. If something does happen, students are notified immediately. So we are definitely kept in the loop.

Kerrigan from Severna Park, MD

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of Maryland is a fun and lively campus where there is no shortage of school spirit. The superior academics, endless list of clubs, neighboring cities, and great on-campus activities make the university one that you should definitely put high on your college list. After just a day here, you'll love being a Terp!
Tips for prospective students
To be a Terp, you have to think like one even when you're in high school. This means that you have to work hard and show what you can do with what you have learned. UMD really puts an emphasis on how you apply your knowledge and skills rather than simply test scores and GPA, so it's very important that you have solid extracurriculars and a great college essay. As far as extracurriculars, however, UMD would rather see you excel in a few than be average and put in little effort into many. Additionally, showing an interest in the school is important to admissions as well. UMD holds several events for prospective students, such as Maryland Marquee day, that are a fun way to see if the university is a good fit for you. Visiting your prospective schools is very important in making your decision, and UMD makes it fun to do so.
Academic Rigor
UMD is not one of the top public colleges in the nation for no reason. Some courses are of course harder than others, but they all require effort. So if you're looking to fly by in college, UMD is probably not the right place for you. In several majors, such as mine (Journalism), the faculty are award-winning scholars in their area of expertise. This means that they aren't going to give good marks to students who won't put in the effort that they expect. But what's great about these courses at UMD is that the professors and TA's are almost always there to help you. I have been to office hours for my TA's numerous times for questions, for them to look over my papers, and even just advice. UMD is unlike high school where many of the teachers simply want you to pass. The professors here truly want you to succeed. As long as you show them respect and effort in their classes, the teachers will make sure you are becoming the best student you can be. They don't want to see anyone fail and by contributing to the course and to your own learning as much as you can, you'll learn so much more than you may have expected.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is definitely something you don't want to miss in your time at Maryland. Although the idea of public bathrooms and close living quarters can seem scary for all the germaphobes, they are really not a problem unless you happen to live with someone on your floor who is exceptionally dirty. But the faculty does a very good job of cleaning the halls and the bathrooms every morning. What's great about dorm life is that you can make friends on your floor and in your building that you'll keep for the next four years and beyond. In most of the dorms on campus, the hall is split between boys and girls, so you not only get to make more friends, but you'll have a better chance of finding more people interested in doing the same things that you are. The notorious rumors of nightmare RA's at college have no claim at UMD either. The RA's are in fact extremely nice and want to keep a fun atmosphere in the dorms. They plan entertaining activities on your floor to allow you to bond with your floormates and have something to do on weeknights. On my floor, we have had pancake Walking Dead viewing parties, mug painting, facials, and more. Also, the RAâ??s are not quick to get anyone in trouble. They'll only write you up if they see you doing something illegal or if youâ??re making a ruckus in the halls during quiet hours. As long as you stay out of trouble, you'll have a great dorm experience.
Food and Dining

Although the thought of college food might make any prospective student a little queasy, the food and dining system at Maryland is quite impressive. The dining hall itself has a lot of variety, including stations for sandwiches and wraps, make-your-own pasta, Korean bbq, quesadillas and cheesesteaks, and one that is much like a Boston Market. The dining halls also have a a full pasta bar with fruit and soup, vegan station, a pastry station, and fridges full of desserts. One of the best parts of the dining hall, in my opinion, is a station called the â??Chefâ??s Specialâ?? where thereâ??s a different choice for lunch and delicious dinner every day to add a little variety to your diet. The dining hall also hosts many different special events that are definitely something to look forward to. Thereâ??s been a Jamaican night, a Big 10 night featuring foods from all of the Big 10 teams, holiday dinners, and â??late night decadenceâ?? that serves unique and delicious desserts for a late night snack. One of my favorite parts of the dining system at UMD, however, is a little place called 251 North that is built into your meal plan once a week. At 251, thereâ??s all-you-can-eat buffets with food that is surprisingly delicious. It has become something my friends and I look forward to every week. What is also great about UMD is that, if you have some extra dining points which many people do, you can go to a restaurant called Adele's. Adele's is an elegant restaurant located in the Stamp Student Union where you can buy a lot of quality dishes using dining points. Some of my favorite things on their menu is the crab dip, New York strip steak, jambalaya, and lava cake. Donâ??t those just make your mouth water? Adele's is an AWESOME treat for UMD students. And between meals youâ??ll need a snack, right? Every semester you get terp bucks that you can spend at the convenient stores, cafes, and the 24 hour shop on campus. The convenient stores and 24 hour shops are lik...
What to do for fun

One of the great things about UMD is the abundance of activities both on and off campus. Although college is of course known for its parties on the weekends, thereâ??s much more to UMD than that. The Eppley Recreation Center is a great place for students looking to fit. The gym is equipped with an indoor and outdoor pool, weight room, yoga center, racquetball and basketball courts, a smoothie station, an indoor track, and much more. Certified gym trainers also give yoga lessons and other classes to students for free at certain specified times. Additionally, at the Stamp Student Union, you can bowl, play pool, and play other games as well for a small price. Our D1 Big 10 sports teams are also great to go watch during the week as well, and the atmosphere from the student section canâ??t be beat. Thereâ??s usually events held by the school or other campus organizations during the week and on the weekends, but if you want to leave campus, thereâ??s plenty to do as well. Washington D.C. is just a metro ride away and thereâ??s a bus on campus that goes to the Metro every thirty minutes or so. From there, you can take a trip to the National Zoo, China Town, the Washington Monument, and much more. D.C. is always a great place to go because thereâ??s so much to do and you can get there very effortlessly. D.C. also has great events open to students as well, such as the Concert for Valor that was held this year. And if you canâ??t find anything to do on or off campus, you can always get your friends together and play some fun games in either the lounges or your dorms.
Bang for the buck
If you look at the â??best buyâ?? colleges online, youâ??ll surely find UMD as one of them. In-state tuition is very affordable as far as college goes at $24,352. If you donâ??t live in Maryland, youâ??ll be paying about $44,045 a year. Although this is definitely a lot, the price tag is not as high as several other colleges with a reputation as good as Marylandâ??s that can run up into the 50 and 60 thousands per year. Whatâ??s unique about Maryland compared to some other universities is that students are admitted into all Big 10 sports games, even the big football matches, for free. In other schools, you can be paying anywhere between $20-$150 for a student ticket. One thing that all UMD students know that we donâ??t have to pay for either is school gear. After only one semester at Maryland, I have received over ten free Maryland t-shirts. As long as you keep your dining points on track, there is little youâ??ll have to pay for on campus while at UMD.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
At UMD, there are several quirky traditions and superstitions that we all have fun participating in. One of the big traditions that has been featured on the news almost every year is the semesterly offerings to the Testudo statue in front of McKeldin Library during finals week. You can donate just about anything in hopes that Testudo will give you Aâ??s on all your finals, but some people really go the extra mile with their offerings. Students have donated tvâ??s, bikes, dorm doors, and even cars. Itâ??s always fun seeing how far students will go to participate in this tradition. Additionally, when you pass any Testudo statue, you have to rub his nose for good luck. Itâ??s also a tradition to go swimming in the pool at McKeldin Mall before you graduate, even though many people do it their first semester. Thereâ??s also a certain spot near the South Campus Diner that looks like an engraved sun dial on the ground. But if you step on the cracks, you wonâ??t graduate on time, or so the superstition holds. At UMD, there is also a frenzie about the squirrels on campus. Students are convinced that the squirrels here are of some new breed because they donâ??t get scared of humans like normal squirrels do. The squirrel â??mythsâ?? are a funny quirk on campus that everyone enjoys.
Great for these types of students
Fun and outgoing students who have big goals and aspirations for their future. The students who succeed at UMD have great school spirit and pursue their education and future careers with passion. They are respectful and work very hard in school to realize their full potential, while still making time for fun and friends.
Clubs and Activities
What makes UMD so great is the seemingly infinite range of clubs and activities on campus. Thereâ??s something for everyone, and the phrase â??you canâ??t make a small school big, but you can make a big school smallâ?? truly applies to UMD. There are clubs you can get into involving your major (I am a reporter for several on-campus news productions), or clubs that simply involve your interests. Thereâ??s everything from acapella groups to club sports to even a squirrel watching club. Even if you donâ??t think youâ??ll join a club or activity when you come here, checking out everything UMD has to offer at the First Look Fair will definitely make you change your mind.
Greek Life
Greek life is big at UMD but a majority of the students are still not involved in fraternities, so whether you participate or not, youâ??ll still find your own friends and activities on campus. What is so great about the Greek system at UMD is that they have several events that are open to everyone, not just members of Greek life. They hold several charity events that all students can participate in that are both fun and impactful. The Greek system raises hundreds of thousands of dollars each year for various charities, and they truly emphasize the idea of brotherhood and sisterhood. The Greek system also emphasizes a strict no hazing policy at UMD, so you donâ??t have to be afraid of being forced to streak around campus during your pledging. I personally am planning on rushing Greek life next semester, but even if I did not, I know I would be perfectly happy on campus without it as well.
Campus Safety
Campus safety is something that UMD excels in. You should feel extremely safe on campus, as many students do. UMD takes several measures to ensure this safety. Around campus, there are security poles in which you can press a button and be contacted with campus security instantly 24/7. By pressing this button or calling security, you can report an incident or you can even ask security to walk you to your dorm, which is what several students will do after late night studying at the library. Additionally, the UMD Police Department will send you text and email alerts to let you know of any incidents or crime in the area so you can be aware of the situation immediately. In addition to these, the transportation system at UMD makes sure youâ??re not stranded by yourself alone at night. Shuttle UM provides buses through the late night all throughout campus, route 1, and the apartments. Additionally, Night Ride is a service that you can call if youâ??re stuck and need a ride back to your dorm.